Any Canadians purchase from Dharma Trading?

[RainbowTurtle]

I'm looking for a supplier (dyes) and I've heard so many good things about Dharma products, but I'm worried about customs charges.

I know shipping is expensive, but it would be almost the same from TO (G&S Dye). I can't seem to find anyone local to me who offeres larger quantities than those little packages of Dylon. (Anyone in Ottawa with a source? )

The Dharma site says "usually no duty charged if shipped by USPS". That would avoid the lovely UPS brokerage fee, but what if duty is charged - does anyone know how much it is (percentage wise)?

Thank you,
Maylen

[ma2maya]

It is my understanding that you won't be charged Canadian customs fees but you may be charged sales tax fees levied by your province. Not 100% sure about this, but in doing a little research to understand the needs of my "Northern" customers this is what I have come accross.

It is quite possible that the dye that G&S carry are repackaged dyes from Jacquard. You might also check out Prochem as another U.S. source.

Kathy

[RainbowTurtle]

Thank you. I know all about the tax (can't avoid it!), but was curious about the duties.

I will check that other source.

Maylen

[laprettygurl]

I was under the impression that the custom's fees were the taxes? Am I wrong? I hope not, I am expecting a LOT of stuff from the states!

[RainbowTurtle]

Quite a few items don't have duty (as per the North American Free Trade Agreement), but some do. It really varies very widely.

I've paid aywhere (so far) from 0% to 18%.

Here's where you find out: http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/general/publications/tariff2004/tablewithamendments-e.html or you can call Canada Customs and get some info. Be careful - I've received different answers from different agents ( ) - you may want to call a few times.

Tax is GST, which you pay regardless of duty.

Of course, if shipped through USPS/Canada Post, there a $5 (economy post) or $8 (priority) charge. If a courier company is used, there's a brokerage fee (ground) or not (air/express) on top of any tax & duty.

So you see, it's a piece of cake!

HTHs,
Maylen

[BCmamaof6]

I bought the starter dye package (nothing else) from Dharma & it cost me more for the tax, duty & fees than it did for the dye
However, I couldn't find it anywhere else, so I didn't have much choice...

[TOmomma]

They only charge you customs plus $5 if the item is worth more than $20, I think. I've only been nailed a few times and it was usually for big-ticket items. Anyway, I didn't get "customized" when I ordered from them, but shipping was outrageous! It irks me when they hose you like that so I haven't bought anything from them again.

[Ellp]

Have you tried looking at the Maiwa website? They are based in Vancouver and carry all sorts of supplies for dyeing and crafting. They might be able to help you out, and you'll be able to avoid customs.

http://www.maiwa.com/

Hth