On 02/15/05 08:07 ET, hdjunkie said...
They shipped the antenna via UPS and yes, I got
hit with the brokerage fees of about $35 CDN.
The cost was $60 US plus shipping.
Sounds like you got the DB4...
I just placed an order with Richard at antennas direct.
I ordered the DB4 and the preamp. (I didn't want to take the chance, and I know this will be the last antenna that I will buy! :-)
They are now shipping via USPS, so we will not have to deal with UPS anymore! Yay!!!! Shipping is a bit steep at $33, but hopefully that will ensure no insane UPS charges afterwards.
If for whatever reason Canada Customs lets the
package through the border without holding it,
there will be no brokerage or handling fees. I'd
imagine this is rare, but it happens. Just because
a package goes through Customs does not mean there
will always be brokerage fees. It depends on who
handles the clearing. Canada Customs will charge
you too, but nothing like a brokerage fee.
If you didn't get nailed by CCRA, your very lucky. I've been nailed twice to ensure that I will NEVER deal with UPS ever.
Depending on who you are dealing with, you can request that the shipper mark the package as "gift" or lower the value of the package to under $20, so that you will not pay for customs/duties/landing fees.
From what I understand, UPS itself got into the
brokerage business, which is why if a package
is sent UPS and held at the border, there will
be a brokerage fee.
They make a LOT of cash from us...It's not unusual to receive a $75 bill from them for landing costs for a $40US package...it's legalized crime, IMHO.
I love the antenna. I don't run an amplifier.
I was told that an amplifier will only boost the
signal if there is a long cable run, but I'm going
to get one anyway, and see what it'll do.
I'll let you guys know when it comes in. I'm looking forward to it!
Dan