Legal Question in Business Law in Canada

Legality of Canadian Companies US customers more than Canadian Customers

I recently purchased some specialty office supplies over the web from a Canadian Company. The site gives the prices in dollars but they are not clear in saying US or Canadian dollars. I assumed because they are a Canadian business that the prices must be in Canadian dollars and they would convert to US dollars. When I received my visa bill the amount was not converted into US dollars. I called the company and they said that US customers get billed in US dollars and Canadian customers in Canadian dollars on a US $1 = $1 Canadian rate. This meant that I was paying approximately 40% more than Canadian customers.

I am wondering it if this is legal to charge American customers more than Canadian. (Shipping and handling was extra)


Asked on 4/11/03, 4:01 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nance Lyons Law Office of Nance Lyons

Re: Legality of Canadian Companies US customers more than Canadian Customers

First, call your credit card company and ask that the charges be reversed. Then, you may have a claim for unfair business practices under MA law, Chapter 93A S.11.

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Answered on 4/18/03, 2:34 pm
Lawrence Graves Coolidge & Graves PLLC

Re: Legality of Canadian Companies US customers more than Canadian Customers

This is not in fair territory; you should protest the billing with your credit card issuer.

Best wishes,

LDWG

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Answered on 4/11/03, 4:14 pm


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