Here's a real world example of avoiding excess charges from UPS.

Earlier this week I got a notice on the door by a UPS delivery stating I had a package and a COD brokerage charge payable to UPS for the amount of $72 and change.

I called UPS and told them that I wanted to clear customs on my own. They told me that they would prepare the paperwork and let me know when it would be ready at the UPS depot's customer counter. You have to keep calling them until they can tell you without a doubt that the papers are there. They normally do call but it's best to call them just before you're ready to head out to UPS.

I got a call late yesterday that my papers were ready. Today I went to pick it up. I think I got there about 11:15am. Took the papers to the local Canadian Customs office which is a short drive away. Got there, chatted with the customs officer while he processed my papers. I then paid $28.59 in GST and PST (I'm in Quebec). The Customs Canada cashier stamped my paper and I drove back to UPS.

Got to UPS, gave them my stamped paper and got my package. Got back in the car and ended up back at work at around 12:15. Saved something like $44 and it only cost me a lunch hour.