INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING QUESTION....HELP!!!!

[MoonDoggy]

The buyer of that bass I shipped to Spain had me keep the case.

I have no problem with shipping USPS. Since you can only insure an international package for $650USD, a lot of buyers don't want to risk not insuring it for the full amount if the bass is worth more than $650. I make it clear that I am not responsible for the bass or any customs fees or charges after the bass leaves my hands and is in the hands of the shipping company.

[lomky]

One thing that came up for me is USPS won't ship a box over 42".

[ustabawannab]

Tell you what. After my last experience, I will definitely try my best to accommodate European shipping. My transaction with bhen went very well. His English was flawless and he understood the risks and was experienced with the process.

My last transaction was with PayPal but I am leery of using it due to the risk of fraudulent charge-backs. I now have a savings account designated for wire transfers. I will only use PayPal with folks that have confirmed addresses and feedback here on TB and on eBay. I am also lucky to have a very good local post office to assist me. Labeling stuff as a gift is a waste of time, most customs are way to smart for that due to the high value of the instrument.

All in all, the European buyer is the one sticking their neck out here. I will do my best to communicate as best I can to put them at ease.

[Mytola]

I've recieved several basses as well as pedals and other stuff from the US, and never really had any problems apart from a shipping delay once. USPS Priority mail and upwards have tracking I can use on the Norwegian Mail's website, so it's all good.

I would think that good communication with the buyer is crucial, and that the buyer understands how customs etc. works is important. If that's all good, I see no reason for it to be a lot harder to ship something abroad than it is to ship it domestically.

When I'm going to order myself a new G&L L2500 in some time (hopefully this year), then I'll opt for UPS/FedEx etc. instead of USPS, mostly because of the insurance.

[Shiveringbass]

The big problem is that UPS and Fedex prices are becoming more and more unacceptable.

In 2005, I paid 160$ for the shipment of my first Roscoe from Bass northwest and via Fedex. It was fully insured

Last year, shipping was 350$ for my second Roscoe and not fully insured. It was via UPS but Fedex was in the same lag.

The price have been doubled in 2 years.

Now I've read somewhere that the shipping coast is at the moment 400/450$.

In that case, I'm OK with USP.


I will add that with USP shipment, the parcel arrives in my usual postwoman hands who will help me if there is any problem with it.