Thread: USA to AUS FREIGHT ADVICE PLEASE

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Someone in Melbourne with an American express card?

Originally Posted by DT-P38

Does anyone have an economical way of getting stuff from the US to here?

I just did a UPS on-line quote for shipping approx. 12lb's (I think that's all of about 5-6 kg's) of camping gear to here and they want approx. $200 US!!! Nearly fell off my chair, poo'd my pants and had a heart attack all at the same time!!! The gear itself only cost $200 odd...

Anyway, I buy stuff on e-bay from HK, UK and China every now and then and have relatively little freight included in any of that. So I just figure I need to know who is best to go to...

Any advice on alternative companies?

Check the United States Postal Service web site. I import machine shop supplies from the USA and only use the post office. USPS is far cheaper than its competitors. There is now (since 14/5/08) only an air mail service. This takes 5-12 days from postmark. A Priority Mail International Large Flat Rate Box will cost US$53.95. Max weight in this is 20lbs, dimensions 12" x 12" x5 1/2". USPS supplies the boxes free. There is also a normal parcel service priced by weight.

Ive found freight from the US to be way better then the UK, I've had some fairly large and very heavy items shipped and never paid more then about 60 dollars for it....

Originally Posted by cal415

Ive found freight from the US to be way better then the UK, I've had some fairly large and very heavy items shipped and never paid more then about 60 dollars for it....

I was charged A$125 by Fedex for two special GE sealed beam units that cost $25!!!!

Where are the items and what is the nearest city ?

Going with USPS... they seem to be the best option, sort of same as our Aust Post but with a yank accent!!!

Originally Posted by DT-P38

Nearly fell off my chair, poo'd my pants and had a heart attack all at the same time!!!

Hmmm, did you call an Ambulance?

Originally Posted by Brian Hjelm

I was charged A$125 by Fedex for two special GE sealed beam units that cost $25!!!!

I was also stung for a UK -> AUS shipment.



Be very VEry VERy VERY carefull when ordering from overseas.
ALWAYS get a quote, including courier charges before shipment.

Pay with visa, disputes work if you have a firm copy.