You probably realise that when you get parts from the states via surface mail and are not lucky enough, about 80% of stuff is not assesed and is delivered without a assesment notice(BILL) that the tarrif for used or new parts is a wopping 15% Shipping/postage costs and purchace costs are added together then taxed at the 15% tariff rate before an additional tax (thanks Johnny) of 10% yes that dreaded GST is added . These imposts can really eat into your beer money. To minimise your exposure get the consignee to lower the stated purchace price if he is ameanable or even better , and this is the best method get the bits discribed as Motorcycle parts no tariff is payable on these and if you are planning to build a VW trike soon why not?
Most engine bits could easily pass as Motor cycle stuff anywho.
Mitty馃槑
geodon 路
Be careful, these guys know about this. While the value of 2nd parts can be rubbery, they still have the power to confiscate your stuff, fine you & then auction your gear for revenue.
matara 路
If you all chip in, I'll be your VW parts runner to sunny California.
:P:thumb
70AutoStik 路
If your car is more than 30 years old, the tarriff is only 5%, have your supplier state on the invoice that it is for an "X" model car. Purchases less that $250, or where the duty and taxes total less than $50 are still duty free (but you're still supposed to declare them to the tax department and pay GST - which I'm sure you will...) Above this, a $50.50 reporting fee also applies.
waltermitty 路
exellent imformation Thanks
vdbleu2002 路
Keep it under $1000.00 also.
kombi_kid 路
also i heard it costs more if you get it mailed to a business address?
cheers
rhys
Bugdriver 路
I've just ordered some parts from US, about US$220, the seller is sending them as 'gift, value $10'. There is no invoice in the parcel in case some nosey type opens it for inspection.
This method should be encouraged, eh?
70AutoStik 路
"Bugdriver:" Let us know if you get that order - Customs have got rather paranoid since S11 and have authority to confiscate deceptively labeled parcels; if it stands out Aussie Post will hand it to them and they don't have to give it back. I don't want to make you paranoid; a supplier, against my wishes, misquoted the price on an article I received today and it made it (but it looks suspiciously like it was checked out.)
I have a friend who works for AQIS (who work hand-in-hand with Customs,) and he tells me that; although they know they won't catch everyone, they're making up for it by coming down heavy on the ones they do. It's your choice.