As cross-border trade evolves, especially with recent changes in U.S. customs tariffs and import duty rules, we want to make sure our American customers clearly understand how shipping from Canada to the United States works when ordering from Skookum Tools Ltd.
This page explains our shipping terms, what Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) means, and what you can expect when your order arrives.
What Does DDU (Delivery Duty Unpaid) Mean?
When you place an order with us from the United States, your checkout price covers:
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The cost of the products you purchase
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Shipping charges via UPS or FedEx
However, import duties, tariffs, and taxes are not included in your order total. Instead, these charges are the responsibility of the receiver (you, the customer).
Here’s how it works in practice:
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UPS or FedEx may contact you directly before or at the time of delivery.
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You may be asked to pay duties, tariffs, or local taxes as determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
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These fees are not set by us and are completely outside our control.
Why Are Tariffs and Duties Changing?
In recent years, U.S. trade policy has seen adjustments to de minimis thresholds and import tariff rules. Previously, shipments valued under $800 often entered duty-free, but this landscape is evolving, especially for industrial tools and manufactured goods.
This means that even small orders may now be subject to tariffs or additional processing fees. While these policies are entirely set by U.S. authorities, we want to help you prepare and avoid surprises.
How to Prepare for U.S. Import Fees
To make your buying experience smoother:
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Check potential tariff categories in advance – You can visit the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to estimate possible import charges.
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Expect a call or email from UPS/FedEx – They will guide you through payment if duties apply.
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Plan for additional costs – While many orders may still pass without significant fees, it’s best to be aware that duties could apply depending on your order value and product category.
Why Order from Skookum Tools Ltd.?
Even with these rules, our U.S. customers continue to choose us because:
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Canadian-made quality: Many of our bandsaw blades, abrasives, router bits, and carbide end mills are produced in Canada using premium materials.
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Competitive pricing: Even after duties, our products often remain more cost-effective than other U.S. imports affected by steep tariffs.
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Reliable carriers: UPS and FedEx ensure fast, trackable shipping.
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Expert support: Our team is here to answer questions about tooling, abrasives, and order fulfillment.
Final Note
We ship every U.S. order under DDU (Delivery Duty Unpaid) terms. Your order total at checkout includes product and shipping costs, but does not include any U.S. duties, tariffs, or taxes. These charges are determined by U.S. Customs and are payable by the customer directly to UPS or FedEx before or at delivery.
By understanding these terms in advance, you can shop with confidence knowing there are no hidden fees from us—just potential import charges applied by U.S. authorities.
Posted by
Robert McDonald
Robert McDonald is the founder and president of Skookum Tools Ltd. and the driving force behind Skookum Tools and Online Supply, a premier e-commerce destination for industrial supplies. With over three decades of experience in the tooling and supply industry, Robert has cultivated a deep understanding of the unique needs of manufacturers, tradespeople, and hobbyists alike.
A passionate advocate for quality craftsmanship, Robert's journey began with a commitment to delivering top-tier tools and supplies to empower his customers to achieve exceptional results. Robert's expertise ensures that Skookum Tools offers a curated selection of reliable, high-performance products.
Robert enjoys sharing insights on efficiency, innovation, and industry trends. His writing reflects his dedication to helping customers succeed, whether they’re tackling DIY projects or managing large-scale industrial operations.
