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

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.

If you all chip in, I'll be your VW parts runner to sunny California.

:P:thumb

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.

exellent imformation Thanks

Keep it under $1000.00 also.

also i heard it costs more if you get it mailed to a business address?
cheers
rhys

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?

"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.