Dear CD's,

Finally, the Canadian dollar gives better returns for a US dollar. It is close to 1.10US.

But, the question is are we benefitting from this? Last week, we were out shopping for a digital camera and i notice that the prices are still high as compared to US prices.

1) can we expect outlets like Best buy, walmart and futureshop to reduce the prices in near future? are they even thinking about it?

2) As a result, many people are doing 'cross-border-internet shopping'. I tried this on one site. The cost of the camera is 208$. shipping charges are 125$!!.

Does any of the CD's know of any such sites with reduced shipping charges? Please share for the benefit of all members.

Fireaway all your suggestions and tips.

seenappa

There are limits to how much you can buy from other countries (without incurring duties/taxes etc).

Be prepared to spend HUGE amounts on duties/brokerage...

You have been warned...

Please see the below link and also the large number of comments following it.

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071101/loonie_high_071101/20071101?hub=TopStories

It dicusses the effect of new loonie power and people are essentially not buying anything at canadian retail outlets so as to force them to reduce the prices.

If you look at the prices of electronic items they are still high.

seenappa

Ya, but my reply has nothing to do with it...if you buy or bring something from another country, you have to pay duty /and Tax /and Brokerage above your "EXEMPTION LIMIT". This applies even irrespective of loonies value.

Only a few online (US based) companies accept Canadian credit cards or even ship to a non-US address. Even then, buying online, you can only buy upto $20 without paying duty.I know for sure Fedex/UPS will charge a brokerage fee (can be in hundreds, depending on the value). SO FOR BUYING A $30 ITEM, YOU MIGHT HAVE TO SPEND ANOTHER $20 FOR THE BROKERAGE FEES/TAXES/DUTY AT THE CUSTOMS/COURIER, WHEN U ACCEPT THE PACKAGE.

The same applies for going to US and buying things. You have limits based on your duration of stay, and have to pay duty/taxes etc at the border.

I know people go to US , buy cmaera clothes, tires etc and not declare and get away with it, but also know of few cases, where someone was handcuffed in front of their children.

Good LUck

Thanks warrior,

I agree with your input.

I wonder how the CD's are doing their holiday shopping.
I am waiting(like many) to see if the stores will have some major policy changes.

seenappa