Traveling with Samples Between the US and Canada
Oct 25, 2016, 10:50 am
#16
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This is a point. The products are handmade optical frames - most of them include a demo lens and would need a prescription lens to be installed before it could be 'sold', but there are sunglasses as well which fit the definition of a sellable product. I could leave out the sunglasses, but then I have the risk that someone will decide a frame with a demo lens is still a functional device.
Oct 25, 2016, 11:10 am
#17
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Right, but does a frame with a demo lens constitute a functional product or a sales aid...that's the key difference. I would hate to drive 3hrs from Seattle to the border, find Canada Customs wants to charge duty, then when I decline and turn around to go home, US Customs gives me the same hassle.
Oct 25, 2016, 12:14 pm
#18
Join Date: Dec 2010
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Right, but does a frame with a demo lens constitute a functional product or a sales aid...that's the key difference. I would hate to drive 3hrs from Seattle to the border, find Canada Customs wants to charge duty, then when I decline and turn around to go home, US Customs gives me the same hassle.
I'd start by checking with CBSA... and checking what they want from you so that they trust you to take them back out. Even if they're not dutiable, CBSA can collect GST on the value.
Again, though, the value of the items is important. If we're talking a couple hundred bucks, it's unlikely anyone is going to care. If we're talking USD5000 (which is what, CAD800000 these days?
), then CBSA will probably be interested.