Internet makes it easier for people in third world countries like the Philippines to purchase the latest merchandise from the US. Nowadays, you no longer need to spend money on a plane ticket to grab the hottest trend. It is a form of globalization where the marketplace is accessible anywhere with only a few clicks.

Online giants like Amazon, eBay, Buy.com and online boutiques are a hit among Pinoys since those support international shipping. Even so, you know that international shipping costs are expensive – sometimes so ridiculous that it’s more expensive than the actual item you’re buying!

So how can you save on shipping? Easy: Consolidate your purchases in the USA!

Consolidating online purchases simply means that you accumulate your packages somewhere in the US first before sending them over to the Philippines. By doing so, you can save money on international shipping since all your items will be sent in one go instead of multiple shipments. This is common practice for those who have relatives in the US coming home a number of times a year.

Another advantage of package consolidation is that you get to have free shipping! Most stores offer free shipping within the US for certain items or purchases over a certain amount like $25 for Amazon. Now all you have to worry about is sending your goods to PI.

Here are some ways to consolidate your packages in the US:

• Direct your purchases to a friend’s or relative’s house in US. Instruct them about any incoming parcel so they can look out for it when they sort their mail. They can hand carry the goods for you or have it sent via sea cargo (balikbayan box service) once they’ve received a considerable quantity – enough to fill a balikbayan box.
• Some buyers in eBay offer package consolidation through their own house or a relative’s house in the States. They simply want to make the most out of the space they have left in their balikbayan box. Payment and delivery arrangements vary so be sure to cover your ground. Check the message boards to see if any offers come up.
• Employ consolidation service from well-known cargo forwarders like Manila Forwarder and Forex Cargo. They will charge a small fee per package (about 5% of total checkout price) plus the shipping cost to Philippines (price depends on box size). Packages will be delivered to your doorstep.
• Sign up for a US mail box service like MyUS.com or MyUSmailbox.com. They basically do the same thing as the cargo forwarders mentioned above but their services are for members only. Membership fees can be paid monthly. In my opinion, it’s best to use Pinoy-operated forwarders since they already have the ‘connections’ in Customs which equates to hassle-free entry when it arrives in Manila.

Some consolidators will not open the package that your parcel arrived in. They will just put it in your box as it arrives in the mail. So, make sure you ask your seller to pack your item carefully or ask your handler to try to fit as much inside the box as he/she can to maximize the space. Also, don’t forget to read their terms and list of prohibited goods (many forwarders do not accept watches).

Sea cargo is cheaper but it may take up to 4 weeks for your box to arrive in Manila. If you need your shipment ASAP, request for air cargo instead. Don’t forget to mention juantobuy.com when you decide to sign up for these forwarder services.