New Member, Want to Understand Etiquette

[porkuslime]

russ_c..

You CAN track parcels somewhat into canada, but for a really LARGE amount of cash. I think you need to send it Insured Mail, which I think started at 20$ or so... it has been a while since I tried this, and the last time I did, the recipient told me that customs automatically flags stuff like that to look at, which adds time to the trip.

Generally speaking I trust Canadian Mail. it DOES take a bit longer.. a month is not unreasonable, 2 months is not unheard of. For something that is the size of a VHS tape box, I would wager on a 2-3 week time.

The only thing I would mention at this point to our membership at large.. do NOT turn this into a "marking things as a gift on customs forms is against the law" thread.. we have had several of those threads, and russ_c seems to be reading all the various threads, so I am sure he is aware of that point.

-Porkuslime

[s_o_r_r_o_w]

While I have a lot of people's attention...

I'm wondering about how to best deal with international shipping, US to Canada. What method of shipping/tracking do people use and approximately how long should I wait to consider something has gone wrong with the shipping?

Priority International. Cheap. Trackable. Insurable.

The flat rate boxes are all pretty good value.

Now, for small, low value stuff I usually request (I live in Canada) First Class International, as even the cheapest Priority mail is $10 or so.

[russ_c]

Hmmm, I will have to use priority international next time, but I don't remember it being cheap. I believe it was $23US to ship a 1lb package to Ontario, Canada. Maybe I'm a cheapo!

I just found out that you can sort of track a package using the Customs form # on the receipt you get from USPS. Typing it into the track and confirm field on usps website provides basic, major stops. I'll have to wait and see. I'm sad to hear that its normal to take up to 30 days to ship because that is the length of time I'm allowed reimbursement for Paypal transaction fees. If something does go wrong and I need to remit payment to the buyer I'll not only be out the miniatures, but also the paypal fees.

Russ

[s_o_r_r_o_w]

Hmmm, I will have to use priority international next time, but I don't remember it being cheap. I believe it was $23US to ship a 1lb package to Ontario, Canada. Maybe I'm a cheapo!

It is currently $11.45 to ship a small, 4lb flat rate box to Canada. Larger boxes might cost more.

I'm sad to hear that its normal to take up to 30 days to ship because that is the length of time I'm allowed reimbursement for Paypal transaction fees.

I wouldn't say "normal". I would say uncommon to not uncommon.

Also, PayPal should be 45 days for transaction disputes.