I feel for you oldkimmer. My father runs a pack and ship store and we see it all the time. It seems there is no good way to get stuff there both safe AND cheap. Too bad because it's the only country I really don't mind sending parts to. It doesn't seem foreign. With that being said, I haven't had anything take too long to get there but I have had Canadians expect me (seriously, with attitude) to sell them parts or cars at less than half price because of shipping/customs. Sorry, but that's not my fault, I can only deal so much on some things.
I see a business opportunity. Set up a shop/warehouse close to the border a few places along the "line" and have people ship stuff there, then let them pick it up. Could be a full time thing if you think about it (not just car stuff, but EVERYTHING). I know, still a pain since not everyone lives 10 minutes above the USA border...
