Shopping·Aug 11, 2023

Your guide to seamless international shopping from the US

A man gives a present to a loved one. Article updated on Aug 11, 2023

Engaging in shopping internationally, particularly shopping from the US, presents both excitement and challenges. One paramount concern is identifying the ideal courier service. This article delves deeply into the core of international shipping, equipping you for a seamless US shopping sale spree.

Reliable courier services

In the vast world of shipping, several services have earned global respect for their impeccable services. Renowned ones include DHL, FedEx Express, and FedEx. Their global acclaim assures that your purchases, especially from the best brand to shop from in the US, are handled with utmost care and efficiency.

Comparison between courier companies

Selecting a courier is not merely about identifying a transportation service but understanding the value they bring. An ideal courier company is an amalgamation of promptness, cost-effectiveness, and impeccable service. To shed more light:

Delivery Speed: DHL promises brisk international deliveries, often between 2-5 business days. FedEx Express matches this pace, whereas FedEx (standard) can sometimes take a tad longer.

Average Shipping Fee: FedEx Express might be on the higher side due to its expedited delivery assurance. In contrast, DHL provides a balance of speed and affordability. FedEx (standard) is for those looking for cost-effective, non-urgent solutions.

General Quality: All three maintain high standards, ensuring the safety and punctuality of shipments. However, when pondering where to shop for summer in the US, personal preferences and specific needs may influence the choice.

A man delivering 3 packages stacked.

Restricted/Prohibited Items to Ship via Air

In the vast landscape of international shipping, grasping the nuances of items that are restricted or prohibited is crucial. For a smooth and regulation-compliant shipment process, being informed about items that are off-limits for air transport is essential. Recognizing the varying restrictions by country, Forwardme provides a comprehensive list detailing the shipping prohibitions and limitations for each nation. Here's a brief overview of some universally restricted items:

Restricted/Prohibited Items to Ship via Air:

  • Flammable Liquids: Items such as perfumes, colognes, aftershaves, or any product with a high alcohol content. Paints, certain cosmetics, and nail polishes also fall under this category.
  • Explosives: Not limited to fireworks or ammunition, this category extends to certain types of batteries, electronic devices, or even novelty items like poppers and some toys.
  • Gases: This includes not just industrial gases but everyday items like aerosol sprays, whipped cream dispensers, some deodorants, or compressed air canisters. Lighters with fuel are also restricted.
  • Toxic and Infectious Substances: These range from industrial chemicals to pesticides, weed killers, specific cleaning agents, and even some biological samples.
  • Organic/Biological Items: Think plants, seeds, fruits, animal skins, feathers, or products derived from animals, which might be restricted due to potential agricultural or health threats.
  • Radioactive Materials: This category includes certain medical instruments or commercial products that might contain low levels of radioactive substances.
  • Corrosives: Items like mercury (often found in thermometers or barometers), car batteries, and acids can be restricted.
  • Magnetic Materials: High-power magnets and certain types of electronics with strong magnetic fields can interfere with an aircraft's operations.
  • Drugs and Narcotics: Prescription medications might be restricted depending on the destination, while recreational drugs are almost universally prohibited.
  • Sharp Objects: Items like knives, scissors, or any tool with a sharp edge might be restricted, especially in carry-on luggage.
  • Liquor and Alcoholic Beverages: Depending on the alcohol content and quantity, these might face restrictions.
  • Precious Metals and Stones: Depending on the value and quantity, items like gold, diamonds, and other precious materials might be restricted or require additional documentation.

Importance of Insurance and parcel tracking

Insurance in international shipments isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Especially when procuring high-end products, like those from Dyson US, insurance provides peace of mind. Moreover, ship courier tracking is a boon, offering real-time updates, ensuring you're informed every step of the journey, significantly enhancing the shipment's overall quality. We, Forwadme, offer insurance for every shipment that you make. This will allow you to have ease of mind.

Why choose Forwardme?

At Forwardme, we aren’t just a service; we're an experience. We gift you a free US address, making any US store accessible to you. Many vouch for us when shopping internationally because our offerings extend far beyond mere parcel forwarding. We guarantee that your US shopping sale experiences are smooth. A tax-free address in the United States ensures affordability. Think of any aspect of shopping from the US ship internationally, and we’re at your service.

A chart written competitive advantage to imply on the advantages of Forwardme.

Advantages of Forwardme

Opting for Forwardme as your trusted partner in international shopping elevates your experience to unparalleled heights. No longer will you be burdened by the intricacies of paperwork – our team ensures every shipment detail is meticulously handled for a seamless transit. Our streamlined processes and dedication to efficiency mean that each package, regardless of size or destination, is managed with utmost precision. Additionally, Forwardme's commitment to affordability ensures that you're provided with top-tier service without the accompanying hefty price tag.

We understand the value of your purchases, which is why our insurance options are both comprehensive and cost-effective, offering you peace of mind throughout the shipment journey. The innovative parcel tracking system we employ ensures that you're never in the dark about your parcel's whereabouts, offering transparency every step of the way. But it's not just about shipping; we are also a wellspring of expert shopping insights. Whether you're curious about the top US brands or upcoming trends, our team is always on hand with timely advice. And should you face any shopping hurdles, our Personal Shopper Service is ready to step in, making sure no desired product remains beyond your grasp. With Forwardme, your international shopping journey transforms from mere transactions to treasured experiences.

The Magic of the Personal Shopper

Ever stumbled upon an amazing product, only to find out the store doesn't accept your international credit card? Or maybe the seller only ships within the US? That's where our Personal Shopper Service steps in. At its core, the Personal Shopper Service is like having a friend in the US who shops on your behalf. It's designed for those moments when logistical barriers stand between you and your desired product. Maybe it's a payment method issue, or perhaps the store has stringent shipping policies. No matter the challenge, our service ensures that you can access the vast expanse of US retailers without any hitches. This service is particularly beneficial for those special items that are hard to get, exclusive deals, or products from stores that traditionally don’t cater to international customers. With Forwardme's Personal Shopper, the US market is genuinely at your fingertips, offering you a seamless shopping experience every time.

Navigating the world of international shopping can be a thrilling yet intricate journey. Knowing the ropes, from selecting a reliable courier, and understanding shipping nuances, to optimizing services like a personal shopper, can transform this experience. Knowledge is the key to unlocking a world of limitless possibilities, ensuring every purchase from the US, every cherished item, arrives at your doorstep seamlessly.

Article written by

Ayberk Onat

Ayberk Onat
Ayberk is always eager to dive into new and intriguing subjects that catch his attention. That's how his current passions entered his life: rock climbing, photography, playing the guitar, digital art, and traveling. The last two are what he's focused on at Forwardme.More links