Almost my entire order has arrived

[turpin]

And I was really pleased when FedEx didn't charge me any duties on the package either.

So far I'm really pleased with their service and will probably buy from them again. Now I just gotta wait for that jacket & vest.

Don't be surprised when you get the bill from FEDEX for duties. I got mine last Friday for a delivery I received July 24. I was talking to the FEDEX Trade Networks folks today (this is the Fedex customs broker). They told me you can expect to pay duty on items of apparel, and especially on woolens greater than $5 in value. This also seems to trigger what is known as "formal entry", where the minimum fee is $25. (If formal entry is not triggered there is no entry fee.) So those kilt hose that look good with a 10% discount can run 11.3% duty plus $25 fee. My total Customs bill for Kiltstore Balmoral 8-yard kilt w/flashes, hose, sporran, belt, buckle, kilt pin, was $85.02. $43 for the kilt alone.

Also, I had to send the kilt back because it was pleated to the sett, not the stripe as I had requested. Just so you all know, make sure to keep all postal/shipping receipts in such a case to prove you did return it, and have the vendor clearly mark the replacement as a replacement, or you may be liable for duty on the replacement as well.

Duty on woolen kilts is 12%, wool hose 11.3%, kilt pins and "imitation jewelry is 11%.

These are things I am learning the hard way. However, I have to concur with Glassman's comment on their great service. They have been very responsive and cooperative during the entire process, including paying for the return costs and promising to Fedex the replacement at no additional charge.

Actually, I'm surprised there isn't more talk about import duties on X-Marks. Maybe I just haven't run across it yet, or it is just assumed by the more experienced among us. It is certainly a cost to factor into buying decisions.