Customs import duty taxes

[leinad]

I've bought a new scope which has been with Perth customs for the past two days apparently; arrived via EMS.

Australia Post cant track or contact anyone and I'm not sure how to chase it up so I can pay the import duty tax and get it delivered. I'm practically waiting for the call/letter.

What's the longest wait you've gone through waiting for customs to send you the import duty tax letters?

The wait is killing me. :(

[AstralTraveller]

Something similar happened to me a month ago. In this case the courier (DHL) contacted me, told me what happened, asked me to supply documentation confirming the purchase price (the seller had "helpfully" under-declared the value of the item) and after I supplied this put me in contact with the correct person. If Aust Post can't do that I suggest the customs help desk. Expect a long call, or series of calls, and stay calm.

[leinad]

Hopefully the invoice is attached to the box; so declaring value isnt an issue. Oz Post advised to wait 3-10 days arrgh.
Hopefully an invoice arrives before the end of the week.

[En1gma]

If the goods are to be forwarded to auspost, they will send you a letter requesting for payment of duties/taxes prior to the release and final delivery of the goods.

If it has gone through a freight forwarder who have their own transport and delivery services and dont consign to auspost. they should also send a letter requesting for payment of duties.

Normally, this does take a bit of time for personal imports as it goes in the queue for processing. You could try speed it up a little and it is best you get in contact with customs to do so.

Rob

[leinad]

Just received letter yesterday; now to pay the duties and get it released for delivery.

:)

[pvelez]

so if I receive a parcel from overseas with an accurate statement of cost and no one asks me for customs duty, then I'm not likely to get asked for it later as the goods have been released?

Pete

[leinad]

nope.
Was it over $1000 though?

[pvelez]

I dare not answer - in the States, you would say that I have pleaded the Fifth Amendment

Good to know that - thanks

Pete