Unless you live somewhere that is very cheap, chances are you will have to pay a little more when it comes to buying stuff from overseas. While this might seem like a small price to pay, it really does leave you with a smaller budget when it comes to what and where you buy your goods from.
If you're looking to save some money but still want quality goods at affordable prices, then international shipping might be for you. It's not something that everyone has the opportunity to try, but if you're willing to take the leap of faith, then international shipping might be the way to go. Here's how you can save money on your international hipping from Singapore.
Know the Agencies You Are Working With
When you're buying from overseas, you are almost guaranteed to deal with an agency. This is because these are the companies that handle international shipments. If you don't know the agency you are using, you could find yourself paying more than you should for your goods. There are many advantages to using an overseas shipping agent, from price protection to better delivery times.
Get a Reworking Fee
One thing to note about international shipments is that they are more expensive than domestic shipments. That being said, there are agencies that can provide better service for a higher fee. When you're buying from abroad, it's important to know what services are included in the price. Some agencies will charge a fee for every service they provide, while others will only charge a fee for the best service they can provide.
Always Use Air Mail
When you're dealing with an international shipment, it's important to choose the right agency. If you use a domestic mail agency, you might have to pay more for less service. That being said, there are better options out there. When you use an international mail service, you're assured of better service. Depending on where you live, international mail services might offer better than normal service.
Know Your Shipping Fees
When you're buying from a foreign country, you will likely be charged a customs duty or VAT depending on where you live. This will add to the price of your goods. It is important to know what type of fees apply to your particular shipment so you can plan ahead and avoid overpayment. If you are unsure, ask. Many companies will be able to help you with this.
Get your Goods From Singapore
When you work with an agency, you may be required to pick up your goods from the agency. This could be a good or a bad thing. The good thing about agencies is that they are almost always closer to your location. If you're in Singapore, and you're looking to buy from abroad, you probably want to pick up your goods from an agency. If you're in a remote location, or your time is limited, you could always try to pick up your goods at the station.
Get a Tracking Number
When you ship goods internationally, you will almost always receive a tracking number. This number will indicate where your package is at any given moment. If you don't receive a tracking number when you ship your goods, file a claim with the postal service. This is usually pretty cheap and easy, and chances are you will get your money back. You should also get in touch with the agency if you are not receiving your goods as expected.
Make a Customs Declaration
When you receive your goods from an overseas vendor, you will almost certainly need to declare what you have received to the authorities. This is usually easy, but you will need to fill out a customs declaration form. It is important to note that if you have not received a customs declaration form, or if you have neglected to file it, you could face customs duties or other charges.
If you are looking to save some money on your order from Singapore, international shipping is a great way to go. It might even be worth paying a few extra dollars for better service. The downside is that international shipping will definitely cost a bit more, but will definitely give you better service. If you are willing to take the leap of faith and order from an international vendor, international shipping might be for you.
