Shipping a laptop from USA to Germany

Hi,

I am looking for a possibility to get a laptop shipped from the US of A to Germany. Is it possible? and have anyone on this forum done this before? Any experiences?

Regards
Sai

Yes, it's possible but you have many problems in doing so.

1. Import duty (23% or more for Electronic items)
2. Damage
3. Theft

If at all possible, take it with you as carry on baggage on the plane.
Don't check it in, and always keep it in sight or close by. It might
also be easier to get the laptop here in Germany, it might cost ya a bit more though.

I had my mom ship mine here using regular post, put a reduced amount on it (500) and wrapped real good. It made it fine without me having to pay any customs, but I may have just got lucky.. as about every 3rd package she sends gets opened by customs and I have to pay the import fee of 23%. It helps if it looks used, and not in the original packing. Good luck!

Sounds obvious, but do not send packed in a box that says "Dell Laptop". Laptops are the #1 thieved item when shipping with couriers.

The classic trick is that they nick the units, reseal, and just stick a brick in the box so it weighs the correct amount.

But there is no point in shipping a NEW laptop really from the States as price differences are usually pretty small, and if it is a used laptop then sure - 'cos 2nd hand laptops are only worth $500 at best.

Regards theft of a laptop during shipping, see the two previous related TT topics:

• Brand new laptop stolen during shipping from the States
• Laptop stolen by DHL Garching depot