Topic: Snow sneakers for the ML

[sailor723]

I just ordered my winters for the Mercedes.

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 235/65/17 mounted and balanced on Moda wheels with TPMS sensors installed. Order came to $1394 including freight to Calais Maine (100kms from me) from Tire rack. My MB dealer was offering 17" Continental 4X4 winter contacts in a package for $2750.....granted,the wheels are probably better but jeeeze! ,,,, even after allowing for the expense of the drive to Maine and back $1300+ HST is a pretty big difference

[ktm525]

What does the border nail you for regarding duty on those? Tire Rack for Western Canada appears to not be competitive due to high shipping charges to Cdn. address.

[sailor723]

I've never paid duty on any of the wheels or tires I've shipped to Calais and brought over myself. Customs treats them as a "casual" imports and,so far,has just charged the HST. I think if you have them shipped to you the carrier fills out all the import paperwork/commercial invoices etc and you end up paying duty if applicable (plus the carrier brokerage fees ). I can see how the Tirerack saving could disappear if you have to have them shipped to Canada.

[ktm525]

Interesting since the DM-V1 had made in Japan stamped right on them. Perhaps no duty on tires anymore? I know non USA auto parts have an extra charge.