FedEx customs fees??

[Hamish]

Hi Guys

The problem in the main is fed-ex and other large couriers, there is a way around it by sending the goods with the post office of which can take anything up to 4 weeks to arrive, or sending it with fed-ex and the like but on the paper work show no commercial value (gift) this way there should be no import duty.
We have sent many kilts accross the water this way and as far as i am aware there has been no extra charges.

Regards all

Richard
UnionKilts Ltd

Hi Richard,

As a commercial business I feel that Union Kilts should be very careful about making Customs declarations such you quote (ie: that the kilts are of No Commercial Value). This does not indicate that the contents of the package are a Gift since, strictly speaking, the full value of even gifts should be shown and, over a given value, the recipient is still liable to be charged the taxes and duties.

"No Commercial Value" is the description given to free samples, etc. which cannot be sold on! Declaring that the contents of a package are a gift, when they are not, means that you are making a false declaration and could be liable for prosecution - if found out!

When Utilikilts first came on the scene, they were happy to make such declarations, but they very soon changed their ways as their Overseas business built and expanded.

I'd hate to see good friends, especially those here in the United Kingdom, come unstuck at the hands of the Authorities.

[David Thornton]

News Flash
FedEx adjusts the bill.
It would seem that 12% is the fee for garmets, wool (I have not verified that with customs). And it seems that the Merchandise Processing Fee is also payable to the feds at a rate not less than $25 & not more that $400, calculated at .21% of the previously calculated duty.
FedEx admits to miscalculating the Argyll Jacket & offers to waive their $5 additional processing fee.
Still a healthy bill, but I guess if it makes this a better country, I'll pony up.
I spoke with Julie at Scotweb & she is investigating for me as well. I will order tomorrow and ship Royal Air & USPS.
Thanks for the info & concern.
David

[JBfromBS]

Hey All,

I got a new Bruce modern 8 yard traditional a couple of weeks ago from Kiltstore.net, and it came in by FedEx. Well, yesterday there was a big fat envelope from FedEx lurking in my mailbox and after these horror stories I have read here, needless to say I was scared to open it! Imagine my surprise after reading through all 8 pages it said "No additional charges due"! I actually let out a big "woohoo" It was described in the paperwork as a "men's wrap, national costume, worsted wool" and had the value listed in the paperwork. So, I guess I was extremely fortunate in either the customs agent who passed it through or the way it was described in the paperwork. Either way, I am extremely happy right now and may have to wear it out tonight to have a pint! (or two)

Joe

[David Thornton]

Good for you Joe!
I ordered from them this week. We discussed shipping options at length and I think I am going with Royal Mail/USPS.
Post a pic.
David

[JBfromBS]

I will try an get a pic this weekend. So far I am very pleased with the material, craftsmanship, and service from Kiltstore. I hope you will be, also!

Joe