EBAY and USPS Express Mail

[Helen]

December 15, 2007 at 12:40 pm

There are a few things I would like to order on an ebay store maybe after Christmas and when I was looking at their shipping charges they say that all international packages are marked “ebay Purchase” on the insurance form and sent USPS Express Mail.

Is there a possiblity that this could be stopped by Customs or is it all in the luck of the draw.

I have a Plan B – i.e. cousin in San Franscisco but just wondering on the above – could I chance it or should I go with Plan B

[Big Fella]

December 15, 2007 at 7:47 pm

Hi Helen,

I have bought a few items on e-bay from USA and every time had to pay import duty and also had to pay USPS handling fees. By the time all this is done there won’t be much of a difference between there and here unless it is a lot cheaper. If it were me, Plan B

Sorry for being negative.

Stephen

[Helen]

December 15, 2007 at 9:58 pm

Thanks Stephen

I was thinking it would have to be Plan B okay – but at least I have it a Plan B so its grand.

Thanks for letting me know and at least I have saved myself an expensive mistake.

Helen

[Eddie]

December 17, 2007 at 8:54 pm

I have only got charged once and have bought a lot of items. Some sellers give you the option of using the US International postal system and this is what I would choose. I often get them sent to work as in some cases a business address having a Vat number might help. The dollar is trading at around 147 and is great value even if you have to pay Vat.

[Helen]

December 18, 2007 at 12:20 am

Thanks Eddie

My plan B has backfired as the billing and shipping address have to be the same so I reckon I have to bite the bullet and just pay the customs if and when it happens. But will wait till the new year as the car insurance and Mr. Binman have to be paid first.