Daughter ordered a $40 dress. Shipping from New Zealand was $43.00. Then DHL charges another $40 for customs brokerage. I know that all courier companies are the same and I never buy anything from online sellers that don't ship via regular post. However, daughter doesn't know the ins and outs.
Bottom line, never, ever buy anything from anyone who uses DHL. There is no way customs brokerage fees for a $40 item should be anywhere near $40. Total rip off.