Shipping books and other stuff from the US... What's the cheapest method? Fastest?

Question

I've just arrived here from the US and really miss the delivery services there... I miss how easy it is there to get the stuff you buy online. I've never tried shipping something internationally. What can you say about your experience in this regard here in Saudi Arabia?

Answer 1

You should look into using a parcel forwarding company like Bongo International http://www.BongoUS.com.  They will give you a US address so that you don't have any restrictions on where you buy from in the US.  Then, you can consolidate your purchases into one shipment.  They use DHL and will take care of all the paperwork for you.  It is a great way to save money and take advantage of the US dollar at the same time.

Answer 2

I have always used the US postal service to ship to KSA.  It's the cheapest, and probably the most unreliable based on other ppls experience, but we have always received all of our packages.  In fact, I just got one yesterday, and it only took 9 days to get here.  My mom shipped it on a Friday, and we got it the following Sunday.  

You can find the prices online, but we just paid about $89 for 16 pounds.  Each pound costs about $4, so you should be able to get a decent estimate based on what I paid.  The prices have gone up a lot in the past year.  The USPS does have a flat rate box for $49.95 for up to 20 lbs, but the size is limited, so it would be good for something heavy.

Books- You should be able to ship them ground shipping through the USPS in an M-Bag.  I asked about 6 months ago, and the lady told me the price was a little over a dollar a pound, but then when my mom went to ship the books, the price was much higher, so she didn't ship them.  Maybe she just got a customer service representative that didn't know anything?

Answer 3

DHL shipping is what i use mostly.

but now Saudi uses Federal Express and UPS services, all 3 are probably more reliable than just the normal postal service.  I have had excellent dealings with DHL.. I had a mix up on a delivery, they found it, refunded me my money as well.. Im very happy with them..

but remember as well.. with books especially they will be subject to the immigrations looking through them and all.. you might get them confiscated also.. goodluck1

Answer 4

DHL

Answer 5

DHL, FedEx, UPS are all excellent choices, but DHL is the best amongst the three.

I have also tried regular mail service and it is good, takes longer though.

Answer 6

I usually order books from Amazon by Saudi mail and they arrive in about a month. No hassles. However, if you are in a hurry to get books DHL/FEDEX/UPS are all there to help but a bit costly.

Answer 7

Well, I like to use DHL and FedEx....they're reliable.  I've never had any problems.  When you order stuff online, it's like what mintee said.  You shouldn't have any problems unless the customs department doesn't like the book you ordered.  My sister orders stuff from Amazon all the time and she always gets it ok.

P.S. It's intersting how you just moved here from the U.S. yet your biggest worry is if you'll be able to order stuff.  Most people have bigger worries like how there's not much to do here or how the weather can be horrible.

Answer 8

it is worth a try if the book is worth it,,make sure the book does not contain things against Islam , Arabs  and  the Royal family..As for other stuff ,,Ask yourself ,,Is it really worth it..then try small low cost permissible stuff ..

If you live in major city There is Jarir Book store , sells all kinds of English book some bestseller ,,Try that

Also in shopping mall you will get eventually what you want,,There are good brand name textiles and shoes,,,etc..