Shipping souvenirs home...

[readytorock]

Hi.

My family and I are planning a summer vacation to the "World," and are driving down from Montreal (Canada).

I don't know about anyone else, but every time we go anywhere, as hard as we try to limit the amount of luggage, we never seem to succeed and seeing as this will be our first Disney trip, I am sure we will have more than a few memories to bring back with us.

As such, to avoid trying to stuff everything into the car for the return trip, has anyone ever shipped items (souvenirs, extra clothing...) back home to Canada, be it either by USPS or one of the couriers (UPS, FEDEX... etc.)? If so, could you please share your experience(s) - customs hassle, brokerage fees, etc.

Thank you very much. I appreciate the time and effort.

 

[2gr8DisneyKids]

You should actually ship your stuff home and have the other in the car so you do not get hit with duty on new items. You also should ship USPS or you will likely have a $25 processing fee, even if it is your used clothes as happened to us after we shipped straight from the desk at POLY, but with a car u can drive to a post office.

 

[minnie mum]

We drive, and one of the big reasons is so we can bring whatever we want with us, and not have to worry about the amount of shopping we do while we're away. But then there are only 2 of us, so we have lots of room in the trunk and the back seat. I can see this might be an issue if there are 4 of you.

I agree with the PP who recommended you use USPS and NOT UPS or FedEX. The costs with them can really mount quickly. USPS may take a little longer, but can save you money and avoid any brokerage fees etc. Pack stuff you brought down with you that you wont need immediately on your return (Laundry, for example) Bring all of your souvenirs and other shopping from your trip in the car with you, along with your receipts. As long as you haven't gone way overboard, your duty free allowances will no doubt cover everything. If you keep all this stuff in one place and the receipts all together it will make things much easier for you at the border.