2. amps-preamps
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Made in Canada conundrum

We all know that some of the very best audio equipment is made in Canada. Some of these legendary companies don't have service facilities in the USA, so if it breaks,like mine did, you send it back to Canada. I just experienced this: Promised about 2 weeks turn-around time, but we're going on 2 months and it's still at Customs in Canada, who are waiting to clear it, having charged me tax, duty, broker fees (FedEx) and a fourth charge for some technicality that I've forgotten. What do US purchasers feel about paying tax, duty and broker fees when they buy Canadian and then pay the same fees again to have the original repaired? Annoyed, like I am, or did you know that? And would you have bought Canadian if you knew this before-hand - like I didn't, because nobody told me. Should I have known this? Opinions, please. (I will keep the Manufacturer's name confidential while I wait for resolution)
springbok10

Showing 4 responses by tobias

tobias
1,534 posts
 
Well Yanks and Canucks, now is the time for us all to sit around on the rug and say just what it is we don't like about each other. Get it all off our chests, spit it out and see what we feel like when it's all over.

Springbok10, I'm really sorry for your experience. I have been soaked at my own border often enough by carriers and by Customs. I think I know now how to avoid it. The Canadian manufacturer of your product needs to know how to help their customers avoid it too, and I hope you will tell them very clearly.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
I live in Quebec, and I thought Benie's line was funny too ;o)
tobias
1,534 posts
 
Unfortunately my experience with cross-border shipping suggests that delays are associated with cheaper transport, i.e. Ground service.

I have had no delays--none--when using 2 Day Air or, from the Postal Service, Express. (Oh, sometimes the routing showed on the carrier's tracking page seems rather odd, but perhaps better not to ask, as long as the package makes it on time.)

And the absolute easiest, fastest, cheapest method, if you live within reasonable driving distance of the border, is to take the units unsealed through Customs yourself and ship from the other side. Make sure you have the paperwork with you.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
$5.50 a head is not much and it has already been applied to everyone else but Canadians anyway. Heck, everyone has a deficit to deal with these days. Glad I don't have to pay it every time I drive across to ship or receive gear, though.
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