International Orders By United States Postal Service (USPS)
For orders NOT including instruments
The shipping charges we add for most goods -- excluding instruments -- are the rates charged by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). These rates are based on the actual weight of your package, except for Economy Air (IPA).
Orders for instruments must ship by United Parcel Service (UPS) Express. UPS is an international delivery company independent of the U.S. Postal Service. UPS Express delivery is also available for other goods; it's faster and more efficient than USPS, and the fees are only slightly higher. For shipping of instruments and other goods by UPS, see our page on International Instrument Shipping.
There are several classes of mailing through the USPS. Brief descriptions and estimated delivery times are listed below. Please note that because of increased international security, there may be unexpected delays in delivery of USPS packages. Also note that, due to long delays and theft of packages, we no longer offer Surface Mail.
USPS SERVICES
Unless you specify otherwise, your order will ship by Economy Airmail if under 4 lbs. (1.81 kg.)Economy Airmail (IPA): 2-4 weeks (or more) delivery time. Tracking numbers are not available, but the shipping is $10.00 for orders under 4 lbs. (1.81 kg.)
Global Express Mail Service (EMS):1-2 weeks (or more) delivery time. Tracking number will be emailed to you once order ships.
Global Priority Mail Variable Weight: 2-4 weeks (or more) delivery time.
Airmail Parcel Post: 2-4 weeks (or more) delivery time.
CUSTOMS FEES AND DELAYS
International packages mailed via USPS are subject to duties, taxes, and adminstrative fees for customs clearance by your country's government. THESE FEES ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE USPS SHIPPING CHARGES. Among them are GLS administrative fees on dutiable items, including 9.50 euro for packages delivered in the European Union, and 17.00 euro for packages delivered in Switzerland and Malta. Additional fees may also be applied.
The USPS web site offers estimated delivery times for international shipping. We have found that these estimated times are often too optimistic, since they do not include the amount of time the package will take to clear customs in your country. Most orders will take 2-4 weeks (or more) to reach you.
ESTIMATING SHIPPING WEIGHT AND POSTAGE CHARGES
Here is a chart for estimating the weight of your order. Note that 2.2 pounds (lb.) equals 1 kilogram (kg.):