Germany, with its central location in Europe, robust economy, and vast array of retailers, has become a focal point for global shoppers. Online platforms such as Zalando, Otto, and Media Markt, to name a few, have solidified their reputation for offering a diverse range of high-quality products, often uniquely European or strictly German. From the latest in fashion trends, intricate craftsmanship in home decor, to cutting-edge electronics, German e-stores cater to an expansive palate of consumer desires.
However, not all of these retail giants provide international shipping. And even if they do, there might be restrictions on certain products, or the shipping fees could be exorbitant. For international shoppers hungry to tap into the German market, this can pose a significant obstacle. But, there’s a solution: acquiring a local German address for online shopping through a package forwarding company. By using such a service, global customers can order from German online shops as if they were local residents, opening up a vast realm of shopping opportunities.
The benefits are not just limited to access. Having a German shopping address can also mean faster delivery times within Europe, potentially lower shipping costs, and a chance to take advantage of local deals and promotions exclusive to German residents. So, whether you’re eyeing that limited edition Adidas sneaker, a beautifully designed WMF kitchen gadget, or the latest tech from Saturn, using a package forwarding company could be your ticket to a seamless shopping experience.
German Package Forwarding Companies
Forward2Me
Primarily known for their UK services, Forward2Me also offers package forwarding from Germany. With a simple registration process, users can quickly obtain a German address and start shopping. Their user-friendly platform allows customers to consolidate multiple orders into a single shipment, potentially saving on shipping costs. They are also known for their responsive customer service and transparency in fees.
MyGermany
Hailing from Weimar, MyGermany stands out for its commitment to provide a broad range of services. Besides forwarding parcels, they offer a concierge service to assist in purchasing items and consolidation services to combine multiple shipments. Their user-friendly interface, coupled with a transparent fee structure, ensures customers can navigate the process with confidence.
ShipGerman
ShipGerman is dedicated to providing its users with a seamless shopping experience in Germany. One of its standout features is its capability to handle and forward bulkier items, making it an ideal choice for those ordering furniture or larger gadgets. With competitive pricing and a focus on customer satisfaction, it has garnered positive reviews from international clients.
Mailboxde.com
With an emphasis on serving both businesses and individual consumers, Mailboxde.com offers a suite of solutions beyond just parcel forwarding. They provide the option of receiving mail, letters, and even faxes, catering to those who need a more comprehensive virtual presence in Germany. Their transparent fee structure and prompt forwarding services have earned them a loyal customer base.
Shopogolic
Shopogolic’s strength lies in its global perspective; they offer forwarding services from several countries, including Germany. They provide a free German address upon registration and emphasize package consolidation to maximize customer savings. Their vast experience across different countries means they’re adept at handling the intricacies of international shipping.
Europe Mailbox
As the name suggests, Europe Mailbox offers services across various European countries, with Germany being a key location. They focus heavily on simplifying the forwarding process, ensuring even first-time users find the experience hassle-free. Their pricing is straightforward, with no hidden fees, and they also offer additional services like package inspection upon request.
My KrautBox
With a catchy name and a dedication to simplifying the forwarding process, My KrautBox is a newer entrant to the scene but is quickly gaining traction. They pride themselves on their ability to handle shipments of all sizes, from small parcels to oversized cargo. Their customer service team is well-versed in the challenges of international shipping and is always on hand to assist with any queries or concerns.
Considerations when Shopping Internationally
When embarking on the delightful journey of international shopping from German stores, there are several aspects that shoppers from the US, UK, or any other country (particularly outside of the EU) should bear in mind. Here’s a breakdown of some vital considerations:
1. Import Taxes and Duties: One of the foremost concerns when ordering products internationally is the potential additional costs in terms of taxes and duties. These are levied when a product crosses international borders and varies depending on the value and type of goods, as well as the destination country’s policies. For instance, when buying from Germany, a US or UK shopper might face import duties that weren’t initially factored into the purchase price. It’s wise to familiarize oneself with local tax regulations and potentially use customs calculators online to get a rough idea of the expected costs. A package forwarding company may give some indication of these, but may not.
2. Delivery Time: Shipping times can be considerably longer when ordering products from another country. Factors such as the distance, customs clearance processes, and the efficiency of local postal services can all contribute to delays. You will also need to add in the time for the package to be received by the German package forwarding company, processed, and then re-shipped to you. All in all, however, this shouldn’t add more than a day or so.
3. Delivery Costs: Using a package forwarding company is great as it allows you to shop internationally, but the shipping costs can be quite high. Most package forwarding companies have a pricing estimator on their website so be sure to try this to get an estimate.
4. Returns and Exchanges: Returning or exchanging items internationally can be a bit trickier than domestic returns. Firstly, the cost of shipping the item back can sometimes outweigh the refund value, making the return uneconomical. Moreover, there might be restocking fees, or the returns process could be time-consuming. Always check the retailer’s return policy when shopping internationally. Some German stores might have partnerships with local return centers in your country, simplifying the process, while others may require you to ship the item back to Germany.
5. Language and Customer Support: While many major German online stores provide English versions of their websites, some might predominantly function in German. It’s helpful to have translation tools or apps on hand when navigating these sites. Additionally, consider the customer support language options and availability, ensuring you have a channel to communicate any concerns or queries.
Know of any other German package forwarding companies? Be sure to let us know.