I am really appreciating this discussion and hope others will
contribute their experiences and solutions.
I routinely ship my sterling pieces from the US to customers in
Europe.
Since my pieces are usually in the $75-$200 range a high charge for
shipping can be a deal breaker for the customer who will also have to
pay an import/customs fee.
To date the US Postal Service has been the only affordable solution
with various International options; Priority, Express and Global
ranging from about $20 to $50.
However, the USPS has begun frequently changing their service
options on these products. Insurance limits have been lowered and
many restrictions and exclusions now apply.
My customers and I both want the security of insurance. I always
accurately declare on the customs form and I have never had an
insured package lost or tampered with. But I wonder with the new
restrictions, if I had to make a claim if it would be paid? USPS
gives no answers.
How are others handling this? Has anyone found reliable and
affordable shipping for items that are not so expensive? No customer
wants to pay more for shipping than for their item! And though these
are relatively low cost sales, they are an important part of my
business.
Thanks,
Debbie Engle… being strangled by shipping cost & risk