The de minimis--or threshold before items are assessed taxes and duty--is actually C$20 or C$40, depending on whether the item is sent through the mail or handled by a courier. (C$60 is the threshold for gifts.) I'm not sure which would apply for something handled by DHL eCommerce.
More info here: https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/support/articles/customs-requirements/customs-duty-tax...
Having said that, US$12.00 converts into about C$16.50 at the current mid-market exchange rate, so either DHL is using a really crazy exchange rate or it's completely out to lunch on when and when not to charge and assess for taxes on items it handles.
I doubt that you were charged duty on your shipment. You were likely charged sales taxes and then an assortment of charges related to processing the item as an import and for handling the taxes DHL thought was owing on the shipment.
Many listings for items forwarded through eIS now give buyers the option of paying the taxes (and duties, if applicable) at checkout and it only adds a few bucks to the shipping charge. I would urge eBayers to choose that option rather than the "wait and see" option.
When you receive your item, @porkos123, see if there's any documentation that explains why you were charged taxes and brokerage fees on your item. If the info doesn't make sense, I suggest that you get in touch with eBay customer service, preferably through their online options through Facebook, X/Twitter, or chat.
