What are the rules for duty fees and import tax?

[CAF]

I recently ordered from a toy chain in the US and the shipping seemed ok. Then I was slaughtered with our exchange rate. So it made it almost not worth it.

Weeks later my package arrives and I get hit with another charge for duty. In the end I way overpayed for the toys.

I thought there was no duty on toys ordered from the US. Is this just meant to discourage buying from US retailers? I thought we have a free trade agreement?

It's so hard to find the right pieces for my collection in Canada, let alone in the location I am at.

[Mystic Metal]

NAFTA only covers goods MADE in North America. Since all toys are made in China, the free trade agreement does not apply.

In the future though, if TF were manufactured in South Korea, as of this year, they too would be free from customs.

If you were charged a "brokerage fee" (usually UPS, FedEx, DHL) you have the ability to self-clear customs. I'd suggest you Google that info for your specific area and see if it's worth your time.

[CAF]

Oh that makes sense. Hey what about used stuff? I guess it would be subject to the declared value?