LF: Titanium G4 power adapter, non-magnetic

[Wendy]

I'm in need of a Titanium G4 power adapter (non-magnetic). I've found some in stores in Ottawa, but they all for $90+ and although they're far cheaper in the US ($18), I'm hestitant as to how long it will take to get across the border.  Any help would be appreciated!

[MacMoore]

Hi Wendy,
You can have US purchases shipped to

Your Name
c/o  The UPS Store
2981 Ford Street Ext
Ogdensburg, NY  13669-4491
United States

Tel. 315-393-1188  (After 1 PM to find out if your package has arrived yet.)

They will receive shipments on your behalf for the fee of $5.00 USD.  They do not have to be advised of shipment coming.
It is about a 45 minute drive from the Hwy. 417 & 416 split.
Total purchases of less than $50 per person are usually waived through by Canada Customs.  Over $50 you pay PST & GST, same as you would at home.
Have your internet purchase receipt with you.

Happy motoring,

Brian

[Dan Millar]

Hi Wendy,

Check this link:

http://www.macally.com/EN/Product/ArticleShow.asp?ArticleID=82

The MacAlly adapter is available at any Apple retailer, surprised no one suggested it! I doubt this is the one you have seen for $19.99 in the US - you shouldn't take an unnecessary risk on such a vital accessory. I can certainly vouch for the MacAlly adapter, I have several.

Ogdensburg is a great way to receive "free shipping in the US" for large items, or when our dollar is stronger, but I think not worth it for such small amounts. Larger $$ amounts do require customs and duty brokerage, which you can do yourself or pay a broker to do at the border. Tip: fill out the paperwork before you leave - its all online at cra.gc.ca. Wanna feel invisible? - go to the border and stand at Canada Customs "service" counter waiting for someone to help you with the forms. Last time we did this, Canada Customs would not collect PST - we were on our honour to pay it - but that was years ago when our dollar was markedly stronger and the Customs agents were in some kind of labour dispute - federal employees shouldn't have to collect provincial tax or some such nonsense. However, if you wish to remain in her Majesty's graces - pay the tax!

My Two Cents' Worth...

Dan

[JFA]

I've got two of these adaptors. Will let them go for $25.00 each.

Tel: 613-820-3425. Leave a message or email back.

[MacMoore]

Update------- No customs or duty is now required to be paid on any North American goods due to Free Trade Agreement.
There are a few exceptions like liquor and cigarettes.  If items are shipped across the border, the transporter will charge you a substanial brokerage fee that will more than cover his actual administrative costs (and time delay) of dealing with Canada Customs to pay PST and GST on your behalf.  But you will not be charged any duty by Canada Customs.

On my recent trip to Ogdensburg (where gasoline currently sells for $0.95/Liter), I was in the US for 30 minutes.  Upon my return to Canada, I declared purchases in excess of $600 USD.  I was told to report inside with my receipts, where I had to pay PST and GST (NO duty) before continuing home.

[Dan Millar]

You're absolutely right, there is no duty or customs to pay on NAFTA goods. Bringing items across the border as a shopper is a lot simpler than importing stuff - you have to categorize and list each item, including where the components came from. i.e. parts manufactured in Malaysia, assembled in South Korea, packaged in USA. Simple for smaller items, but quite a chore for large numbers of items...

Seriously though - what ever happened to Wendy and her power adapter?

Dan