Import duties/postage costs for ordering a 4003 from the US

[plasticman_88]

Hi everyone,

My band won a little competition and, all of a sudden, we have money to spend! So, I'm in the market for a 4003, preferably a little worn-in already. I've noticed that there are a LOT more Ricks on American eBay than there are on Australia's (they're also a lot cheaper). The only real issue I have with buying one of these is that I've got no idea what sort of postage and duties it would incur getting it into Brisbane.

Does anyone have any experience with this? Is it worth it? Maybe a cheeky quote, too?

Thanks,
Adrian

[gellkeller]

Adrian,

A bass will cost you up to $400US to have delivered to Australia which would include Insurance for the total value. Once it gets to Australia, you will have to pay 10% GST. There are no Import taxes on bass guitars. There could be some additional Customs charges like quarantine checks etc.

[plasticman_88]

Cheers for the advice, Brett, but I'm not sure it's going to be worth it.
I actually tried a 4003 out today at Tym Guitars in Brisbane. It sounded genuinely incredible, but the neck was pretty heinously bowed which gave it ridiculously high action. Is that the sort of thing that adjusting the truss-rods can fix, or is it just not worth it?

[plasticman_88]

Ok, latest update. Tym's was only selling the bass on consignment, so it'd cost me extra to have it fixed. So, I guess it's not worth buying a Rick with a bowed neck.

[gellkeller]

I'd be a bit hesitant as there can be a number of reasons why the neck is bowed. It's difficult to find a luthier that has a lot of experience with Rickenbackers and would have had prior experience resolving a similar issue. The problem may be as simple as adjusting the truss rods but there is also the possibility it is more than that.

[plasticman_88]

Thanks Brett. I'm a bit worried that it could be a broken trussrod, so I've given up on that bass. Now, to Ebay!

[gregga41]

I know this is a little bit late, but...
WELCOME to the forum Adrian!
Another Aussie here is always a cause for celebration.

[plasticman_88]

Thanks for the welcome, Greg. Now, if I could only find a JG 4003 and be a legitimate member.

[weemac]

Hey Adrian!
PM sent....

Eden.

[gregga41]

Hey Adrian!
PM sent....

Eden.

Hopefully you'll have your Rick real soon!

[weemac]

Mayhaps........

emac.

[ozover50]

Ooops!! Very late to the party here!

Welcome from another Downunderite, Adrian. Hope you find your Rick bass real soon!

[weemac]

Aaaaaaand Sorted!

Eden.

[tamere]

Brett, thank you for the info I am importing a Gretsch to Australia and I am stressed out right now.