Has any one used USPS Express Mail.........?
 

Has any one used USPS Express Mail to buy stuff from the US?

Do they charge $5 like normal USPS or do they charge brokerage fees like other couriers?

Thanks.

Cheers,
Vic

I've never been charged brokerage through USPS at all... unless it's hidden in the shipping fee. USPS is definetly the way to go.

Fedex charges brokerage fees because they have their own brokerage firm, so they can charge whatever they want. USPS charges a flat rate (I think $5) per box no matter how much is in there. Usually it's lumped into the shipping fees.

USPS is the way to go. Anything that I order from the states is all usps except for bulk reef. They have their own setup with ups for brokerage. Never any hidden charges.

I know normal USPS is the way to go but was wondering if the "Express Mail" option was similar when dealing with brokerage fees. The shop I want to buy from only has USPS express mail as an option (well they also have UPS & FedEx)

Cheers,
Vic

USPS Express is still the best way to go. i ordered 3 large MH fixtures from Aqua Traders and that is how they where shipped, didnt cost me an extra dime for anything not even GST ( how that happened I dont know)

I also use USPS Priority Post and never get charged anything extra either. Thats the only way I buy anything from US is if its shipped USPS Priority Post.

I believe Canada Post charges $8.00 for Express vs the $5.00 for regular USPS shipments.

I had an item shipped recently from the US and it came by FedEx. I was expecting the usual highway robbery fees for brokerage and such but was quite suprised and happy that it was a mere $12 in total. I think they may have finally come around to reality, probably losing too much business to USPS. As for UPS, can't say if they've ammnded their rates. Still, my first choice for cross border delivery will still be the postal system.

No hidden charges because they charge you for them up front. I'm not ordering from them anymore because of this. I don't feel good giving ups my money. It's too bad because brs is awesome other than that.