Guide·8 min read·

Cross-Border Shopping 101 🌍 Your Ultimate Beginner's Guide

Your first-timer's guide to international online shopping. Step by step - from Amazon to your doorstep!


Hey there! Welcome to Datriss :)

"I found a product for $89 on Amazon US, but it's $150 in my country... what do I do?"

Sound familiar? You're about to discover the world of cross-border shopping!


1️⃣ What is Cross-Border Shopping?

Simply put, it's buying products from online stores in other countries.

The biggest advantage? Price differences!

The exact same product can be 30-50% cheaper just because you're buying from a different country.

💡 Pro tip! Electronics, supplements, and sportswear typically offer the biggest savings internationally


2️⃣ Which Sites Should I Use?

As a beginner, start with these trusted sites:

🛒 Amazon (US/UK/Japan)

  • Huge selection
  • Ships directly to most countries
  • "Import Fees Deposit" = no surprise customs bills!

💊 iHerb

  • Best for supplements and health products
  • Free shipping over $40
  • Ships to 150+ countries

👟 6pm.com

  • Brand shoes at 50-70% off
  • Nike, Adidas, major brands
  • Requires freight forwarder for some countries

3️⃣ How Does Shipping Work?

There are three main ways to get your stuff:

Option A: Direct Shipping (Easiest!)

The store ships directly to your country. Amazon and iHerb do this.

Option B: Freight Forwarder

You get a US warehouse address, shop anywhere, then the forwarder ships to you.

Option C: Buying Agent

A service buys on your behalf - great for sites that don't accept international cards.

📌 Beginner's choice: Start with direct shipping from Amazon or iHerb. It's simple and safe!


4️⃣ What About Customs & Taxes?

This is where people get scared, but it's not that complicated!

Most countries have a "duty-free threshold" - buy under this amount and you pay nothing extra:

  • 🇺🇸 USA: $800
  • 🇬🇧 UK: £135
  • 🇪🇺 EU: €150
  • 🇦🇺 Australia: AUD $1,000

⚠️ Important! The threshold includes shipping cost, not just the product price!


5️⃣ Quick Tips for Your First Order

1️⃣ Start small - Try a $30-50 order first

2️⃣ Use a credit card - Better protection than debit

3️⃣ Check sizing carefully - International sizes vary!

4️⃣ Read reviews - Other international buyers share valuable tips

You've got this! After one or two orders, it becomes second nature. Happy shopping!


Questions? Use Datriss to compare prices and find the best deals across stores!

- The Datriss Team ✨