As for Brokerage fees, you never have to pay them. Brokerage is a separate service and there is always an option to do it yourself. Here’s how:
- Delivery guy shows up at your door demanding $$$ in fees. Say no - refuse delivery, tell him you will self broker.
- Call the courier company, tell them you want to self broker. They will update the package notes.
- Go to the shipping facility in your town (where the courier is holding the package). The package legally must be there (in case the CBSA wants to inspect it). Ask them for the clearance paperwork for self-brokerage.
- Take the paperwork to your local CBSA office (usually there’s one near the airport).
- Provide the paperwork, tell them what it is and pay the GST/PST and any duties they assess.
- Return the stamped paperwork to the shipping facility and collect your package.
It’s a hassle, that may not be worth the fees, but on higher cost items, you can save a couple hundred dollars.