GuideΒ·10 min readΒ·

Freight Forwarding 101 πŸ“¦ Shop Anywhere, Ship Everywhere!

Some stores don't ship internationally? No problem! Learn how freight forwarding services can unlock any online store for you.


Hey there! Welcome to Datriss :)

"This store doesn't ship to my country..."
"The shipping cost is $80?!"

Freight forwarding is your secret weapon! πŸ“¦βœ¨


πŸ“¦ What is Freight Forwarding?

A freight forwarder gives you a local address in another country (like the US). You ship purchases there, then they forward everything to you!

How It Works:

  1. Sign up with a forwarding service
  2. Get your personal US/UK/JP address
  3. Shop online using that address
  4. Packages arrive at the warehouse
  5. They consolidate and ship to you

🌟 Why Use Freight Forwarding?

  • Access any store: Even ones that don't ship internationally
  • Save on shipping: Combine multiple packages into one
  • Better rates: Often cheaper than direct international shipping
  • Package consolidation: One shipment instead of many

πŸ† Popular Services

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ For US Shopping

  • Stackry: Great rates, easy to use
  • MyUS: Reliable, good customer service
  • Planet Express: Budget-friendly
  • Shipito: Multiple warehouse options

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ For Japan Shopping

  • Tenso: Most popular for Japan
  • Buyee: Also offers purchasing service
  • ZenMarket: Good for auctions

πŸ’‘ Tip: Compare rates before choosing - prices vary by weight and destination!


πŸ’° Cost Breakdown

Typical Fees:

  • Membership: Free to $10/month
  • Receiving: $0-3 per package
  • Consolidation: $0-5 (combine packages)
  • Shipping: $10-50+ (by weight/speed)
  • Insurance: Optional, ~3% of value

Example Cost:

3 packages from different US stores:
β€’ Direct shipping each: $25 Γ— 3 = $75
β€’ Via forwarder (consolidated): $35 total
Savings: $40!


πŸ“‹ Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Choose a service: Compare rates for your country
  2. Create account: Get your personal address
  3. Shop: Use your new address at checkout
  4. Wait: Packages arrive at warehouse
  5. Consolidate: Combine into one shipment (optional)
  6. Ship: Choose shipping method and pay
  7. Receive: Track until delivery!

⚠️ Important Tips

⚠️ Some stores reject forwarding addresses - try a different forwarder
⚠️ Batteries and liquids have shipping restrictions
⚠️ Declare accurate values for customs
⚠️ Add insurance for expensive items


✨ Wrap Up

Freight forwarding opens up the world of online shopping!

Can't ship to your country? Use a forwarder!
Too many packages? Consolidate and save! πŸ“¦

- The Datriss Team ✨