Shipping is often the most expensive part of your haul. I wish i knew these tips before the first haul...
1. Use the Shipping Calculator: Before you even buy an item, use the Hipobuy calculator. Input the estimated weight and dimensions to see which lines are available for your country. Don't always go fot the cheapest option especially in Europe. If you are shipping to Europe (Germany, France, Italy, etc.), the biggest challenge is Customs. To avoid high taxes or seized packages, you should always use a Triangle Shipping line.
2.Volumetric vs. Actual Weight: Actual Weight: What the package weighs on a scale. Volumetric Weight: Calculated by the size of the box*.* If you are shipping "light but big" items (like a puffer jacket), use a line that charges by actual weight only!
Rehearsal Packaging: Ask the warehouse to pre-pack your items. This gives you the exact weight and dimensions before you pay, often dropping the price significantly because the system's initial estimate is usually too high. But usually u will get the overpayed money back if u don't do it.
No Box!: If you don't need the shoe boxes, tell the warehouse to discard them. This reduces volume and weight, saving you up to 20-30% on shipping costs.