Ordering items from overseas...

[xand 0]

From say, ebay seller overseas, or whatever online shop in the states.

 

If you've done that, were you charged any import tax, etc?

[fuwen 0]

I used to order CDs/DVDs from towerrecords.com USA. So far only shipping, no import tax, but amount I ordered was less than US$250.

[seiko_citizen 0]

not sure about SG, but in AU if the taxes do not exceed AU$20 no tax is payable

[Rameish 0]

Depends on:

 

1) Method of shipping: FedEx, DHL, any freight forwarder etc you will be charged if declared value is stated

 

2) Via EMS - yes if value is delclared

 

3) Via uninsured air mail (parcel) - usually not.

 

4) Most Important: If 2 or 3 it also sepends on how kiasu or idle the post office guys are.

 

I have been charged GST for a small item (under S$400) and have been let off for a bigger item (over 1.5k).

 

 

I think the taxes apply but manpower no enough to collect from all the small items.

[augustineRS 0]

I wasn't charge for my e2 or other stuff like mint tins.

Shipping usually air parcel or global priority.

[RawHit 0]

1) If you are not buying from a large company (where policies may be fixed) ask the seller to mark the item as "Gift". Personal gifts are not taxable.

2) Also if the seller is ready to do so you can ask him to declare the item to be of lesser price than actual.

3) Normal air mail shipping is less likely to attract customs duties.

 

[seiko_citizen 0]

general rule: dont use couriers as they will attract a higher tax risk. and avoid declaring undervalue, as goods have and/or may be confisicated (sorry if i scared anyone)

[xand 0]

Right, thanks.

 

The only tax applicable is GST then?

[Absolute0 0]

IIRC, custom duties imposed is a percentage of the item's price. Not very sure though...