Canada, Eh?
I’ve shipped products all over the US. I tried shipping a product into Canada for the first time. All I can say is, wow, what’s with all the fees, eh? I’ve shipped a product into Brazil that was much easier than shipping into Canada. The only problem I had with the Brazil order was the initial purchase. The person who bought the product only spoke Portuguese. (That’s a story to tell.) Shipping to Brazil was not a problem. There wasn’t any weird fees.
For those considering shipping into Canada from the US, UPS charges the receiver a fee when they accept the package. I paid for the charge for them since they were unaware of that they would be receiving a charge. I lost quite a bit on that transaction. I’ve learned from this mistake. I’m going to make sure to put this info up on my site so I don’t get hit by it again. I will also be sure to inform any customers who call in orders from Canada.
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Comments
I just don’t know what’s up with Canada. They’re our neighbors. What’s with the fees? I think any more Canadian customers wouldn’t be interested in purchasing from me if they hear about the fees. You win some, you lose some.
Ah yes fees. As a Canadian it is a pain buying from the US because of the fees. However, your guys might want know about a few things I have noticed purchasing through eBay.
1) Items under $20 value are not subject to most or all of the fees. They also clear customs faster.
2) Some shippers have managed to arrange that I pay fees in order receive the package. Once you figure out how this works and let your customers know upfront that they will responsible for customs etc., they can then decide for themselves if the extra fees are worth it. You won’t anger potential customers by shutting them out and you will gain access to another market.
Good luck!
Good comment. I wonder how large companies deal with this. I know of a well known magic supply company that is based out of Canada. I wonder if their distributors here in the US have to deal with the fees when purchasing from them?
As another side project of mine I run an eBay store, although not as much as I used to. One thing I remember always being a pain was shipping to Canada, I only got nailed by the charges once. AFter that I notified all potential Canadians of the increased freight charges and never sold anything up there again.
But I’m better off for it, hell, we’re not in business to lose money, eh? lol