Amazon, the global e-commerce giant, has revolutionized the way we shop, offering a vast array of products at the click of a button. For customers in Colombia, while Amazon does ship select items through its Global Shopping program, the product range available for direct shipping may not be as extensive as what one would find if shopping from countries like the US, Germany, or the UK.
However, there’s a silver lining for those seeking a broader selection: package forwarding services such as Forward2me. These services bridge the gap, allowing Colombian shoppers to access a wider range of products and have them forwarded to their doorstep.
Method 1: Use the Global Shopping Program
Navigating Amazon’s international shopping page is essential for a seamless shopping experience in Colombia. If you’ve faced challenges with shipping to Colombia, it’s likely because you haven’t utilized Amazon’s international shopping feature. By using this page, you can bypass those pesky notifications that state items can’t be shipped to your address.
Steps to Shop on Amazon for Delivery to Colombia
- Access the Amazon International Page: Navigate to the Amazon Global page to view products that can be shipped directly to Colombia. Bookmark this page (Ctrl + D for Windows or Command ⌘ + D for Mac) for easy access in the future.
- Update Your Address: Head to “your account” and scroll to find the delivery addresses section. Here, input your Colombian address details. Ensure you select the “Make this my default address” option before saving.
- Enable One-Click Access: On the Amazon international shopping page, set up your one-click address. This ensures Amazon recognizes Colombia as your shipping destination. To activate, visit the one-click settings page, enable one-click settings for your browser, and confirm your default address. While you don’t have to use the one-click ordering feature, enabling it filters your view to items that can be shipped to Colombia.
Amazon Global Shipping to Colombia: Considerations
- Shipping Costs: Standard shipping via Amazon Global to Colombia starts at $8.99. For priority courier shipping, prices begin at $13.99. The final cost is determined at checkout based on item type, weight, volume, and quantity.
- Delivery Time: Amazon Global’s standard international shipping to Colombia typically takes eight days. However, with priority shipping, you can receive your order in as few as six days.
- Customs and Import Fees: When ordering from Amazon to Colombia, be aware of potential additional charges like import taxes and customs duties. The exact fees depend on Colombia’s import regulations. Amazon often collects an import fee deposit to cover these extra costs.
Method 2: Use a Package Forwarding Company
Utilizing a package forwarding company can significantly expand your shopping horizons on Amazon.com. By providing you with a U.S.-based address, these services enable you to purchase almost any product available on the platform, even those not typically shipped to international destinations. Once your order is delivered to the U.S. address, the forwarding company then ships it to your actual location in Colombia, ensuring you have access to a broader range of products without geographical restrictions. This method bridges the gap between global consumers and the vast array of products on Amazon’s primary site.
- Choose a Reputable Package Forwarding Company: Start by researching and selecting a trustworthy US-based package forwarding service that caters to customers in Colombia. Some popular options include Forward2Me and Stackry.
- Register for an Account: Once you’ve chosen a service, sign up for an account on their website. Upon registration, you’ll be provided with a U.S.-based address, which you’ll use for your Amazon.com orders.
- Shop on Amazon.com: Head to Amazon.com and start shopping as you normally would. When checking out, use the U.S. address provided by the forwarding company as your shipping address.
- Notify the Forwarding Company: Some services require you to notify them of incoming packages or provide order details. This helps them identify your package when it arrives.
- Consolidation (Optional): If you’ve ordered multiple items, many forwarding services offer a consolidation option. This means they’ll combine all your purchases into one package, potentially saving you on international shipping costs.
- Choose Your Shipping Method: Once your package(s) arrive at the U.S. address, the forwarding company will notify you. You can then select your preferred shipping method to Colombia, whether it’s standard, expedited, or another option.
- Pay for International Shipping: The forwarding company will provide a cost estimate for shipping to Colombia. Once you’ve paid, they’ll dispatch your package.
- Track Your Package: Most forwarding services offer tracking options, allowing you to monitor your package’s journey from the U.S. to your doorstep in Colombia.
- Receive Your Order: Depending on the shipping method chosen and customs processing times, your Amazon.com order will arrive in Colombia. Remember, there might be additional customs duties or import taxes upon arrival, so it’s essential to be prepared for these potential costs.
- Enjoy Your Purchase: With the package safely in your hands, you can now enjoy the broader range of products available on Amazon.com without the typical geographical limitations.
Note: Always communicate with your chosen package forwarding company regarding any specific requirements or guidelines they may have. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience.
Amazon Alternatives in Colombia
Alternatively, you could look for a local alternative.
- Mercadolibre: Often referred to as the “Amazon of Latin America,” Mercadolibre is a leading e-commerce platform in Colombia, offering a wide range of products from electronics to clothing.
- Exito.com: Operated by Grupo Éxito, one of the largest retail companies in Colombia, Exito.com offers a diverse selection of products, including groceries, electronics, and home goods.
- Linio: A popular online marketplace in Colombia, Linio provides a vast array of products, from tech gadgets to beauty products, catering to various consumer needs.
- Deremate.com: A platform for buying and selling a wide range of items, Deremate.com is a go-to destination for many Colombians looking for deals and unique finds.
These platforms provide Colombian shoppers with diverse options, ensuring they can find almost anything they need without relying solely on international sites.