Amazon, the online retail giant, has become synonymous with e-commerce, offering millions of products across virtually every category imaginable. Its global reach has made it an attractive option for shoppers in many corners of the world. But what about the picturesque archipelago of Malta? Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta’s residents and visitors often wonder about the accessibility of Amazon’s extensive catalog on the islands.
In Malta, where local shopping options might be limited compared to larger countries, turning to online shopping can be a convenient alternative. However, the question of whether Amazon ships to Malta can be complex, as Amazon’s shipping policies, fees, and availability vary across its different regional websites.
Generally speaking, the best options for shopping at Amazon from Malta is to use one of the larger EU-based stores like Amazon.de (Amazon Germany) or Amazon.es (Amazon Spain). It’s also possible to shop at Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk but since both the US and UK are outside of the EU, you will normally have to pay customs fees to import your order.
Help! My Order Can’t be Shipped to Malta!
While many products on Amazon can be shipped directly to Malta, there are times when certain sellers or items may not offer this option. If you find yourself in this situation, fret not, as package forwarding companies provide a convenient and practical workaround.
How Package Forwarding Works:
- Sign Up with a Forwarding Company: Choose a reputable package forwarding service that caters to Malta. This company will provide you with a local address in the country where the Amazon seller ships. For the UK or Germany, try Forward2me. For the US, try Stackry. We also have suggestions for
- Place Your Amazon Order: Use the provided local address as your shipping address when placing your order on Amazon. The package will be shipped to this local address.
- Forwarding to Malta: Once the package reaches the local address, the forwarding company takes over. They will handle all the necessary logistics to send the package to your address in Malta.
- Shipping Options and Fees: Most forwarding companies offer various shipping options, enabling you to choose the one that best suits your budget and time frame. Keep in mind that additional charges, such as import duties and taxes, may apply.
Benefits of Package Forwarding:
- Access to More Products: By using a forwarding service, you can access sellers and items that wouldn’t normally ship to Malta.
- Control and Flexibility: Many services offer package tracking, consolidation of multiple orders, and even personal shopper assistance, providing you with more control and flexibility over your purchases.
Considerations:
- Reputable Service: Ensure that the forwarding company has a good reputation, transparent fees, and reliable customer support.
- Compliance: Be mindful of Malta’s import regulations, as certain products may have restrictions or require specific documentation.
Amazon Alternatives
While Amazon’s international reach offers a plethora of shopping options, supporting local businesses and finding alternatives within Malta can be a rewarding experience. Not only does shopping locally contribute to the Maltese economy, but it often provides the benefit of faster delivery and personalized customer service. Here are some notable Malta-based companies that can be considered as alternatives to Amazon:
- Forestals: Specializing in electronics, appliances, and home entertainment, Forestals offers a wide range of products and has a strong online presence. With local delivery and in-store pickup options, they are a reliable choice for tech enthusiasts.
- The Atrium: For furniture and home décor enthusiasts, The Atrium provides an extensive online catalog. Their commitment to quality and style makes them a go-to destination for home improvement needs.
- Agenda Bookshop: Book lovers can explore Agenda Bookshop’s vast selection of books, magazines, and stationery online. With local stores across the islands and an easy-to-navigate website, Agenda brings the world of literature to your doorstep.
- Pavi Shopping Complex: Offering groceries and household essentials, Pavi Shopping Complex provides an online shopping experience with home delivery. Their wide array of products makes day-to-day shopping convenient and hassle-free.