Eh. It's moreso about the shipping fee. Canadian customs is a different story. They generally do not collect customs on stuff that isn't alcohol/tobacco
I declare EVERYTHING every time I go across the border. It's up to the individual officer as to whether or not they collect a duty on every single item.
In my experience, unless you have alcohol or tobacco products they don't pull you in. Despite the value of the item.
Whereas if some thing is shipped in the collect it. So Tom, that's not on me. They simply don't have the manpower or time to pull every single person in for every single purchase. It just wouldn't make sense. Hence why some items are on the collect every time list.
Lastly. If a canadian citizen or resident spends 48 hours out of the country they are entitled to a $800 duty free exemption. So I wasn't doing anything unethical. Do the research before you start mouthing off and pointing fingers.
Here's the link on it ace.
Travellers - Residents Returning to Canada