Are customs clearance fees always very high when you receive items sent by courier or does it only concern a few range of items?

I was sent my old laptop by courier service from Singapore (6 year-old one, without any upgrade or so) and was charged something like THB 7,000 for customs clearance only (and it took 10 days to clear it). I just cannot imagine how much I would have paid for brand-new electronics.

I was sent some accessories (bathroom accessories samples for my work) by DHL, and everything was opened and re-pack in such a mess. But luckily no fee this time.

What would happen if i intend to buy on-line or receive from overseas stuff like medicine, cosmetics, fabrics,etc? Is there any import duty too?

And what is the best/safest way to receive them? Courier service?

Many thanks.

You surprise me, I thought there was no tax on secondhand goods.  Perhaps someone will clarify for us.

I have had several packages sent from europe and USA none of them attracted any tax.  However I did use normal mail which is not as likely to get the inspectors attention as a courier package.

This is Thailand, stand your ground, know your rights, don't go ballistic, all they want is money.

Just give them 500-1000 baht to shut them up, otherwise ask to see a superior and be confident.

Thai officials always want back handers, but they should be reasonable. NEVER pay bribes at the airport or to immigration though.