[wyldathart]

I opted for the Faster shipping, I wanted to be able to track it. Plus I did get a package deal so everything will be in one parcel.

[Kilted Pagan]

i will be doing the same so there is no real way to break up the shipments

[fluter]

Originally Posted by Kilted Pagan

(times like this i wish i knew a scot)

Anything purchased domestically (in the UK) is subject to VAT, so it's likely to be about the same cost as the duty. Statistically, we in the US probably come out ahead. My most adventurous mail orders have been under the 2Kg limit for Royal Mail, and $200 for duty.

[lethearen]

I got Scotweb package on Monday. I haven't seen or heard anything about duties yet; but apparently they might come in the mail at some point later ;) I don't know how much it matters, but SW sent it via DHL instead of FedEx. I've heard that FedEx has some nasty duty and broker fees.

[pipe23]

Originally Posted by lethearen

I got Scotweb package on Monday. I haven't seen or heard anything about duties yet; but apparently they might come in the mail at some point later ;) I don't know how much it matters, but SW sent it via DHL instead of FedEx. I've heard that FedEx has some nasty duty and broker fees.

I'll let you know, I'm just going through customs clearance now on a vintage tweed jacket from the UK. FedEX or course. Had no problems on shipments using DHL in the past. Wait and see I guess.

[ForresterModern]

UNless Fedex has already contacted you at some point to get your importer information BEFORE delivering the package (they make you fill out an info form on line and return it to them electronically), and you got your package from them already then you are probably in the clear. Usually you get a notification that a package is held at their warehouse for customs, that they need certain information from you to get it through customs, then they send it to you, then they send yo ua delayed bill. If they skip the information gathering (only the first time though) then your package got thorugh without customs. Once they have you on file, however, the can send your packages through and then bill you for their inflated customs fees after you get your package. Sucks.

DHL no longer has an american arm as they got out of the US business several months ago. Their stuff either gets shunted over to UPS or, rarely, USPS. The few DHL packages I ever got never had any customs issues, but then again I am not sure I ever ordered anything expensive from them.

Again, smaller orders with lower valuations usually do not raise the eyebrows of the customs folks, unless they come FEDEX. Larger and more expensive ones may still get through with other shippers but will definitely get hit with FEDEX at the wheel.

[ShaunMaxwell]

I've had good luck with kilts shipped out of the UK using ParcelForce...

After being hit by Fedex fees once before, I can understand wanting an alternative. My most recent purchase came via ParcelForce, which delivered quickly and without customs duties.

Perhaps ScotWeb could consider them as a possibility?

[ForresterModern]

Economy shipping from the UK will generally be either ParcelForce (which often still gets held up in customs, even if you don't have to pay any customs) or Royal Mail. Vendors like Scotweb, however prefer to ship with more solid shippers with tracking and insurance, especially if they sare sending something expensive overseas---for their own security as well as yours. So even if you choose economy shipping, they may still decide to ship with whomever they choose, at their expense.

[wyldathart]

They sent mine through DHL this morning. I'll post what happens when I get the parcel

[NewPiperinNY]

I placed an order that was dispatched in 4/10.. lo and behold this afternoon it was waiting for me at home. I am located on Long Island in NY.... and I used the free shipping.

Thanks Scotweb!