This is my first time importing freight (Caterpillar Tunnel or its Accessories), what do I need to know?

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We’re excited you’re considering bringing Farmers Friend products to your farm, even from across the border! We understand that ordering internationally can raise some questions, but don’t worry—we’ll walk you through what to expect when placing an international order with us.

Shipping Methods

We offer two primary shipping methods for international orders:

  1. Parcel Shipments (e.g., Pyroweeder, Greens Harvester, Quick-Plant Fabric, etc)
  2. Freight Shipments (e.g., Tunnels, multiple rolls of silage tarp, etc)

Parcel Shipments

For smaller items like the Pyroweeder, we typically use UPS or DHL for international shipping

Customs Duties and Taxes

  • Duties and Taxes Not Included: Prices on our website do not include customs duties and taxes.

Why You’re Charged:

  • Goods purchased online and shipped internationally may incur customs duties and taxes because they cross international borders.
  • These charges are determined by your local customs authority and depend on the item’s origin, type, value, and weight.

Receiving Shipments via DHL

DHL’s Role:

  • To expedite delivery, DHL may pay the customs duties and taxes on your behalf when the shipment enters your country.
  • You’ll need to reimburse DHL for these charges before or upon delivery.

Payment Process:

  • DHL will notify you via text message, phone call, or email when your shipment arrives.

Payment Methods:

  • If duties and taxes are less than $20, you can pay the courier directly at the time of delivery using debit or credit card (no cash accepted).
  • For larger amounts, you can make a payment online at www.dhl.ca/mypayment (https://www.dhl.ca/mypayment).

Receiving Shipments via UPS

UPS’s Role:

UPS acts as the customs broker for your shipment unless you specify otherwise.

They handle the customs clearance process and may pay any duties and taxes on your behalf to expedite delivery.

Payment Process:

  • Notification: UPS will contact you if any duties, taxes, or brokerage fees are due.
    • They may send an invoice or require payment upon delivery.
  • Payment Methods:
    • You can pay online via the UPS website or mobile app.
    • Payment upon delivery may be possible, depending on local UPS policies.

Additional Fees:

  • Brokerage Fees:
    • UPS may charge a brokerage fee for clearing your shipment through customs.
    • These fees vary depending on the value of the shipment and the destination country’s regulations.
  • Disbursement Fees:
    • A fee may be charged for advancing duties and taxes on your behalf.

Tips for UPS Shipments

Tracking: Use your tracking number to monitor your shipment’s progress and anticipate any customs-related delays.

Contact UPS: If you have questions about duties, taxes, or fees, contact UPS customer service in your country for detailed information.

Self-Brokerage Option:

In some countries, you may choose to self-clear your shipment through customs to avoid brokerage fees. Contact UPS ahead of the shipment’s arrival to arrange self-brokerage if desired.

Freight Shipments

For larger items like Caterpillar Tunnels and other substantial equipment, freight shipping is required.

Steps to Complete Your Order

Note: Before completing your purchase, it’s mandatory to obtain a customs broker or inform us if you plan to self-broker.

Step 1: Set Up a Customs Broker Account

Why You Need a Broker:

  • A customs broker facilitates the clearance of your shipment through customs efficiently.
  • They handle duties, tariffs, customs fees, and taxes on your behalf, charging a service fee for their assistance.

Information to Provide:

Send the following details to support@farmersfriend.com:

  • Broker Name
  • Contact Name
  • Phone Number
  • Fax Number
  • Email Address

Recommended Customs Brokers

  • Border Buddy: http://borderbuddy.com/
  • Clearit.ca: https://clearit.ca/
  • Garden City Customs: http://www.gcityservices.com/
  • King Bros Limited: https://kibro.com/ 

Self-Brokering:

  • If you live near the U.S. border and prefer to pick up your order in the U.S., you can act as your own broker.
  • Consider using a freight forwarder by searching for “freight forwarders near me” and selecting one that suits your needs.

Heat-Treated Pallets for Canada

  • Canadian customs require shipments to be on heat-treated pallets to prevent quarantine delays.
  • We will provide the appropriate pallet for your shipment.

Step 2: Documentation

USMCA Agreement Paperwork:

  • For shipments to Canada, we will provide the necessary USMCA agreement documents.

Commercial Invoices:

  • We will supply commercial invoices for your order when it leaves our facility.

Copies of all documents will be emailed to your chosen customs broker or the individual responsible for customs clearance, as well as the freight carrier handling your shipment.

Helpful Information for Customs Brokerage

Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Codes

Providing the correct HTS codes to your customs broker can streamline the import process.

  • Tunnels: 9406.90.0010
  • Tunnel Parts: 9406.90.0030
  • Quick Cut Greens Harvester: 8433.59.0090
  • Harvester Parts Kit: 8433.90.5045
  • Pyroweeder: 8432.80.00.80
  • Silage Tarp: 3920.10.0000
  • Shade Cloth: 6006.32.00.00
  • CoolBot: 8537.10.39.92
  • Frost Cover: 5603.11.0000 B Y N US

We aim to make your international ordering experience as seamless as possible. By following the steps outlined above and preparing in advance, you can help ensure that your shipment arrives promptly and without any unexpected fees or delays.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Customer Service team at 931-583-0397 or support@farmersfriend.com.

Happy growing!