3 MILLIONS OF TRIPS |

THE NUMBER of people who wait in line-ups like this has been increasing dramatically in recent
years according to Statistics Canada (see the graph, left).

Customs collects duty. on purchases

CANADIANS CROSSING into
the United States can bring back
any goods purchased there — with
some exceptions — but they
should be aware of the costs in-
volved.

. Duties and taxes vary depending
on the type of items and the
length of the visit to the south,
explained Jim Bhangav, acting
operations officer with Canada
Customs.

CALENDER YEAR

Various time periods are ac-
companied by exemptions of up to
$300, and within those limits there
are additional limits on the
amounts of tobacco and alcohol
that can be imported.

Once cross-border shoppers
have exceeded those limits, they
will be required by Canada
Customs to pay the often-chang-
ing rates for customs duty, the
Goods and Services Tax, and
possibly an excise tax (charged on
a handful of luxury items).

A piece of jewelry purchased in
the U.S. but manufactured in
another country would cost 13.3%

tax, said Bhangav. / .

Milk — a‘ popular item among
cross-border shoppers. — has a
10.5% duty on it, while computers
made in the U.S. have no duty
but are subject to GST.

The minimum penalties for not
declaring range from 25% to 80%
(alcohol and tobacco is con-
fiscated), and, for the more
serious offenses or repeat offend-
ers, a vehicle seizure or criminal
charges may apply, explained
Bhangav. .

The fee for releasing the vehicle
can equal the amount of the

All Major Credit
Cards Accepted

Please, Be Seated.

(It won't cost you a thing for 6 months*)

OF kins attractive ‘off the floor’ styling of this sofa has made it one of
our most popular designs. Available in 12 designer colours of
Italian leather, this piece is sure to compliment your personal space.
This week we are offering a'special purchase on this style, plus wé will
carry the financing charges for 6 months* This is a great time to get
your new furniture
before summerguests
arrive! Great Pacific...
The Affordable
Designer Store

6 months on everything in the store!

*o.2.¢. Sony this ofer does not include our matess selection.

2946 Commercial Drive {at 14%), Vancouver
Mon-Wed 3-6 ¢ ThurFri 9-9 « Sat 9-6 e Sun 11-5

duty, 7% GST, ard 10% excise

L.A. Styles,
Bellingham Prices,
Vancouver Location.

penalty charged. |

Shop in L.A. an®-you'll out-style lots of
Vancouverites, and be short a few thousand
dollars. Shop in Bellingham, and you'll
have a hassle at the border, and a nagging
headache. Shop at the Sample Room, and
you'll have the latest styles from the
upcoming séason at wholesale prices.

And you'll still be a good Canadian.

1000 Mainland Street

872-4806

Telephone 685-8485