Hey there! Welcome to Datriss :)
"I have so many questions about international shopping... where do I start?"
We've collected the TOP 10 questions beginners ask. Let's answer them all! ❓
Q1: Is international shopping safe?
✅ Answer: Yes, when you follow basic rules!
Safe sites: Amazon, iHerb, official brand stores, major retailers
Be careful with: Unknown sites, too-good-to-be-true prices, no reviews
Protection tips:
- Use credit card or PayPal (buyer protection)
- Check seller reviews
- If it seems too cheap, it probably is
Q2: Will I pay customs/taxes?
Maybe! It depends on:
- Your country's duty-free threshold
- The total value (product + shipping)
- What type of product it is
Common thresholds:
- 🇺🇸 USA: $800 (very high!)
- 🇪🇺 EU: €150
- 🇬🇧 UK: £135
- 🇦🇺 Australia: AUD $1,000
💡 Tip: Stay under your threshold = no extra fees! Or use Amazon's "Import Fees Deposit" for no surprises.
Q3: How long does shipping take?
It varies a lot!
- ⚡ Express (DHL, FedEx): 3-7 days
- 📦 Standard international: 7-14 days
- 🐢 Economy/AliExpress: 15-45 days
Tip: Check estimated delivery BEFORE ordering. Factor in customs processing time too.
Q4: What if the product is damaged or wrong?
✅ You're protected!
Your options:
- Contact the seller first (usually they'll help)
- Open a dispute/claim on the platform
- Credit card chargeback as last resort
Important: Take photos of damaged items immediately. Keep all packaging until you're satisfied.
Q5: Can I return international purchases?
Yes, but check the policy first!
Some sites offer free returns (Amazon, ASOS). Others charge international return shipping ($20-50+).
⚠️ Before buying clothes/shoes: Check return policy! Some international purchases are essentially final sale.
Q6: What payment methods can I use?
Most sites accept:
- 💳 Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- 💰 PayPal
- Some accept Apple Pay, Google Pay
Best choice: Credit card with no foreign transaction fees, or PayPal for buyer protection.
💡 Tip: Notify your bank before making international purchases so they don't block it!
Q7: Will electronics work in my country?
Check two things:
1️⃣ Voltage: Look for "100-240V" (universal) on the device
2️⃣ Plug type: You might need a plug adapter
Usually safe: Laptops, phones, tablets (universal chargers)
Check carefully: Hair dryers, kitchen appliances (often NOT universal)
⚠️ Remember: Plug adapter ≠ voltage converter. Wrong voltage = destroyed device!
Q8: How do international sizes work?
Sizes vary A LOT by country!
- Asian sizes run 1-2 sizes SMALLER
- European sizes use different numbers
- UK sizes differ from US sizes
Golden rule: Always check measurements in cm/inches, don't trust S/M/L labels!
💡 Quick reference:
• US to Asian: Size UP 1-2 sizes
• US 8 = EU 38 (women's clothing)
• US 9 = EU 42 (shoes)
Q9: Is it legal to buy internationally?
✅ Yes! It's completely legal.
You're just buying from another country's store. Just like buying at a store while traveling!
Only restrictions:
- Some items can't cross borders (alcohol, certain foods, weapons)
- Prescription medications have rules
- Counterfeit goods are illegal
Q10: How do I track my package?
You'll get a tracking number!
Track at:
- The store's website/app
- Carrier's website (DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.)
- 17track.net (tracks almost any carrier)
Stages you'll see:
- Order placed → Shipped → In transit → Customs → Out for delivery → Delivered
📌 Don't panic: Tracking sometimes doesn't update for days, especially during customs. This is normal!
Still Have Questions?
That's totally normal! Everyone starts somewhere.
Our best advice: Start with a small, low-risk order ($30-50 from Amazon or iHerb). Get comfortable with the process, then work your way up to bigger purchases!
✅ You've got this! International shopping gets easier with every order. Happy shopping!
Compare prices and find the best deals with Datriss!
- The Datriss Team ✨