Shopping from European online retailers has become increasingly popular for US residents, forward parcel offering access to exclusive brands, unique products, and often better prices. But there’s one frustrating hurdle many shoppers face – international shipping restrictions. That’s where forwad parcel services save the day.
Whether you’re an avid online shopper, an expat longing for European products, or searching for that one-of-a-kind item unavailable in the US, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of forwarding parcels from Europe to the USA. From understanding how forward parcel works to choosing the right service and helpful tips along the way, we’ve got you covered.
What You’ll Learn in This Blog:
- What is forward parcel and how it works
- The benefits of using these services
- A step-by-step guide to forwarding parcels
- Best practices for a smooth process
- The top parcel forwarding options from Europe
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to bring a slice of Europe right to your doorstep!
What Is Forward Parcel?
Forward parcel is a service that helps shoppers receive goods from countries where retailers may not offer international shipping. Essentially, a parcel forwarding company provides you with a local address in the country where you’re shopping, receives your packages on your behalf, and then ships them to your home in the USA.
For example, say you want to buy a luxury handbag from a boutique in Italy, or snag the latest kicks from a German sneaker site that doesn’t ship to the US. A parcel forwarding service acts as a middleman, solving the shipping problem seamlessly.
Here’s how it generally works:
- Sign Up: You create an account with a parcel forward that offers services in Europe.
- Get a Local Address: The company assigns you a local address in countries like France, Germany, or Italy.
- Shop Online: Use the provided address during checkout on European retail sites.
- Forward to the USA: When your package arrives at the local warehouse, the service forwards it to your US address.
Famous Countries for Parcel Forwarding in Europe
You can shop and ship from virtually anywhere in Europe. Here are some popular countries for US shoppers:
- France: Known for luxury fashion (Louis Vuitton, Chanel) and fine goods.
- Germany: Perfect for tech products, sneakers, and home brands.
- Italy: Ideal for premium fashion and artisanal items.
- Poland: Great for affordable clothing and niche cosmetics.
- Sweden & Denmark: For modern home decor and design enthusiasts.
Retailers like Zara, Gucci, MediaMarkt, and ASOS are often on the list of US shoppers’ top destinations. Unfortunately, many of these brands don’t offer international shipping—but parcel forwarding bridges that gap.
Benefits of Using a Parcel Forwarding Service
Why bother with forward parcel when you could just shop locally? Well, here’s why so many US-based shoppers rely on it:
1. Access to Exclusive European Products
Luxury goods from Italy, artisanal items from France, or eco-friendly homeware from Scandinavia are just a few examples. Parcel forwarding opens the door to products not available in US stores or online.
2. Cost Savings
Sometimes, even with international shipping fees, European products are cheaper than buying alternatives in the US. With options like package consolidation (combining multiple items into one shipment), you can also save even more.
3. Overcome Retailer Restrictions
Many European retailers don’t ship internationally, or they restrict shipping to certain products. Forward parcel removes these limitations by acting as your local proxy buyer.
4. Consolidation Services
Want to buy from multiple stores? Forward parcel can consolidate all your packages into one shipment, reducing shipping costs and saving time.
5. Professional Handling and Repackaging
Forward parcel services often inspect and repack your items to ensure they arrive safely. Some will even remove excess packaging to lower overall weight and shipping charges.
How to Choose the Right Parcel Forwarding Service
With so many options like DeliveringParcel, Forward2Me, ColisExpat, TipTrans, Reship, and Shippn, it’s important to choose wisely. Here’s what to consider:
Key Factors:
- Reputation: Read reviews and testimonials to ensure the company is reliable.
- Pricing: Compare membership fees, shipping rates, and additional costs like consolidation or insurance.
- Shipping Options: Does the service offer express delivery? Eco-friendly options? Multiple carriers?
- Customer Support: Responsive and helpful customer service is crucial when issues arise.
- Additional Features: Services like package consolidation, repackaging, and insurance can make your experience smoother.
Among these, DeliveringParcel stands out for its robust shop-and-ship platform, providing users with features like package consolidation, repackaging, and fast global shipping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Forwarding Parcels from Europe to the USA
Here’s a quick guide to ensure hassle-free parcel forwarding:
1. Sign Up
Create an account with your chosen parcel forwarding service (e.g., DeliveringParcel or Forward2Me alternative). Make sure they offer shipping from countries you plan to shop in.
2. Get Your Local European Address
After signing up, you’ll be assigned one or multiple local addresses (e.g., Germany, France, or Italy). Use this address as your shipping info during checkout.
3. Shop Your Favorites
Visit European websites like Zara.fr, Gucci.com, or the Italian Amazon store. Add your desired items to the cart and ship them to your new local address.
4. Receive Package Updates
Once the parcel reaches the forwarding service’s warehouse, you’ll be notified. At this point, you can choose to consolidate, repack, or insure your purchases.
5. Declare Your Shipment
Provide the necessary details for customs declarations, including the content type and value. Accuracy here prevents delays.
6. Forward to the USA
Select your preferred shipping method (standard, express, etc.), pay for shipping, and watch your treasure make its way across the Atlantic!
Tips for a Smooth Parcel Forwarding Experience
To avoid hiccups, pay attention to these pro tips:
- Double-Check Customs Declarations: Be honest about the contents and value of your package to avoid penalties.
- Know Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with restricted items in both Europe and the USA.
- Opt for Insurance: Protect your package in case of damage or loss during transit.
- Consolidate Packages: Combine multiple shipments into one to save significant costs.
- Track Your Parcel: Most services provide step-by-step tracking for peace of mind.
Closing Thoughts: Open the Door to European Shopping
Parcel forwarding makes accessing Europe’s finest products easier than ever before. From curated luxury goods to everyday must-haves, you’ll be spoiled for choice and benefit from cost-efficiency with tools like package consolidation.
Want to experience hassle-free European shopping? Consider trying DeliveringParcel for seamless service, top-notch customer support, and exclusive “shop & ship” benefits. Your dream haul from Europe is just a few clicks away.
