How to Order from a Site That Only Ships from The USA?

I want to buy something but the website only ships to the USA is there a way around this?

Comments

  • +4

    Shopmate by Auspost.

    • +1

      thanks, i'll use that.

    • I've used Shopmate a few times now. Pretty happy with it, with no issues to date.
      Shopmate is up as far as I can tell, I've just logged in now to verify
      .
      https://shopmate.auspost.com.au/

  • +4

    You can use a freight forwarding service which will give you a US address then post the item to you. AusPost has their own Shopmate service though I cannot see it on their website at the moment, may be stopped/paused at the moment. Other third parties exist too.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoYFfcMh9B4

    It's worth noting that any product you buy may not have warranty here, needs to work on 220-240V power here, may need a new plug or adapter and you will be subject to additional (and often high) shipping charges, insurance, potentially duty/customs/GST etc.

    More often than not it's simply not worth it unless something very niche/rare/desired. Also worth checking if it's available on Amazon US as they do ship many products here.

    • it was listed on Amazon at one point but its been over a year and never came back in stock.

  • +2

    If possible, pls advise what product you want to buy, maybe there's similar product in Australia. As Hybroid said just now, the product in US spec might not be suitable for use in Australia because of different voltage and plug.

    • +4

      https://www.kittykornerdoor.com/

      nothing fancy. I contacted the company but they were not willing to do it.
      I will use shopmate.

      My googlefoo was just weak because I was googing 'drop shipping' not 'freight forwarding' like a idiot.

      • That's cool

      • +2

        that's an interesting idea, though its video doesn't quite promote how it differs to me just DIY a normal hinge? Sure, it self-locks, but that can be solved with a small velcro pad.

      • From the website, the kittykorner seems easy. we can do it by ourselves. No need to spend that money

  • +1

    You can use a freight forward but some companies won't ship to known freight forwarder addresses so it may be worth checking with the store you intend to buy from that it won't be an issue. If you do decide to use a freight forwarder I recommend against using shipito for reasons I've mentioned here previously. Other things you need to be aware of have already been brought up.

    • If they don't allow forwarding then I will try shipito Assisted Purchase instead.

      • I was recommending NOT using shipito, they're scammers.

  • +1

    If the seller will not ship to a freight forwarder in the USA then many also offer a buying service for a nominal fee
    Also bear in mind these freight forwarders will hit you with Australian GST on the invoice value of the goods plus the freight cost.

    • Thats good to know. I have emailed them so will see what they say about freight forwarding.

  • +2

    Seems like a lot of effort for what should be a pretty straight forward DIY job.

    • Can't be a hack, need to look professional as I don't own the place.

  • +1

    Just buy whatever size hinge at Bunnings and a slide lock to keep it open-QED!

    • The landlord said I can have that type as it's hidden well enough.
      I asked for a piano hinge and 2 magnets but that got shut down right away.

      • +1

        Your landlord has agreed for you to cut their door to insert this overpriced hinge for a cat flap thing? Wow. Please make sure you have this approval in writing before you do anything…

        • He is doing his own door so not a problem. I rent a room.

  • Shopmate
    Shipito
    Planet Express

  • comgateway is the one i use at present.
    previously used others…

    https://www.choice.com.au/shopping/online-shopping/buying-on…

    Just make sure you get an understanding of the quote/forwarding value before you buy out of the US. Often it works out cheaper to just buy local, local agent, local warranty etc. (assuming that matters and/or isnt offered by the US seller).

  • Thanks everyone. they are ok with freight forward so I will use auspost. It works out to about $80 Aud each from $40 USD. So a bit more, but it’s what I need to do to get privacy and be able to close my door again. Plus land lord is getting one for his door so brings shipping costs down a bit.

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