Here is a way to save some money on UPS charges. When you get the tracking number call UPS with your credit card and pay the brokerage/custom fees up front, by doing that they will waive the $4.25 COD charge, this COD charge is for them having to bill you for the fees, if you pay up front there is no need for them to bill you.
I recently bought some stuff in the US and did this with UPS and saved some cash, not much, but every bit counts.
I can understand peoples frustration with UPS, but if you have ever had stuff shipped thru them or have heard of their charges then you should know to expect this.
Their standard charge is about $35 + $4.50 COD charge + the tax on the item.