Amazon’s global reach has made it a popular choice for online shoppers worldwide, and Cyprus is no exception. While Amazon does not have a dedicated site for Cyprus, residents can still access Amazon’s extensive product range from various Amazon domains, including Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.
However, as Cyprus is in the EU, the best Amazon sites to shop at are EU-based versions of Amazon. Amazon.de (Amazon Germany) is typically the most popular as it has the largest selection and often the best prices, but many people shop at Amazon.es (Amazon Spain) or Amazon.it (Amazon Italy) as well.
Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk may offer a better selection, but as they are outside of the EU, you may be charged customs fees to import your order.
Help! My Order Can’t be Shipped to Cyprus
It’s not unusual for certain sellers not to ship to Cyprus or to charge expensive fees for doing so, even EU-based sellers in Germany and Spain. Thankfully, there’s a solution for Cyprus shoppers: package forwarding companies.
Package forwarding companies act as an intermediary service for international shoppers, enabling them to purchase items from online retailers that may not otherwise ship to their country.
Here’s how it works: When a shopper signs up with a package forwarding company, they are provided with a local address in the country where the online store is based (such as the US, UK, or Germany). The shopper then uses this address for shipping when placing an order with the online retailer. Once the package arrives at the local address, the package forwarding company takes care of forwarding it to the shopper’s actual international address. They handle all the logistics, including customs paperwork and international shipping arrangements, allowing the shopper to receive items that might not have been directly accessible otherwise.
This service often comes with various shipping options, tracking, and additional services such as package consolidation, giving international shoppers more control and flexibility over their purchases.
Example package forwarding companies include:
- Forward2me (for UK and Germany shopping)
- Stackry (for US shopping)
Be sure to read our in-depth lists of the different package forwarding companies in the US, UK, Germany, and Canada.
Other tips
When shopping from Amazon to Cyprus, it’s wise to compare prices across various Amazon stores to find the most economical option for your desired product. This comparison should include not only the item’s price but also shipping costs and any additional charges, especially when ordering from a non-EU Amazon store. Here are some key considerations for Cypriot shoppers:
- Electronics Plugs: If you’re purchasing electronics, ordering from the UK ensures compatibility with Cyprus plugs. However, even locally bought items in Cyprus may not always come with the right plug.
- Keyboard and Laptop Layouts: Pay attention to the keyboard layout when shopping for keyboards or laptops. While Italy and Spain use the QWERTY layout, it may differ slightly in secondary keys. Germany and France may use different layouts altogether, though US/UK keyboard layouts can still be found, albeit less commonly.
- Language Considerations: Instructions and language-specific products like board games may not be in English unless ordered from the US/UK. Ensure that the product’s language aligns with your preferences, as it will likely depend on the store’s location.
- Customer Support: Rest assured that all Amazon stores can communicate in English should you need support.
- Mixing Sources: Sometimes, the most cost-effective strategy might be to mix and match. One Reddit user shared their experience of building a new PC, finding it cheaper to buy half the parts from Germany, the other half from Italy, and the case from Cyprus.
Cyprus-Based Alternatives to Amazon
If you prefer to shop closer to home, there are local online retailers in Cyprus that might provide the products you’re looking for:
- Public: A prominent Cypriot electronics retailer with a wide range of gadgets, appliances, and more.
- Superhome Center: If you’re seeking home improvement items or general household goods, this store offers a vast online selection.
- Mall of Cyprus: For fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, the Mall of Cyprus has several stores with online shopping options.
Conclusion
While Amazon’s global network allows Cypriots to access a world of products, it’s essential to navigate the available options wisely. Understanding the ins and outs of international shipping, potential import fees, and the role of package forwarding companies can make your Amazon shopping experience from Cyprus smooth and satisfying.
Additionally, exploring local alternatives not only supports the Cypriot economy but can also provide convenience and possibly save on shipping costs. Whether you choose to browse international Amazon sites or local Cypriot online retailers, the options are abundant, ensuring that the perfect product is never out of reach. Happy shopping!