Best way to ship 12 pedals to UK

[BlackFlag1313]

Anyone know the best way to send about a dozen pedals to the UK from the USA regarding shipping cost, customs, etc?
:?:

[mikeb]

I have no idea of specifics from the USA, but likely it is already obvious that slower = cheaper. I'd be thinking that if you underdeclare the package for customs reasons, and they actually open it, then if they find 12 brand-new pedals, with perhaps some of them being duplicates, whoever is receiving the package will be up for some $$$, and maybe a hard time from the customs people. There's ways around it (e.g. desoldering a wire or two inside each pedal, and then marking them down cheaper and labelled "in need of repair"), but it's better to be honest IMHO - governments need taxes to operate.

Mike

[Paul Perry (Frostwave)]

There is a minimum value under which customs isn't wanted (I believe.. this is the case in many but not all countries).
By sending two at a time in separate boxes on different days, you maximise the chances of gettign 'under the wire'.
Always have documents & the contents & price written on the outside of the box to give less reasson to open it.
And don't write "guitar effect", write "audio signal modification unit" so nobody is tempted to steal it.

[BlackFlag1313]

I'm not looking to play games with customs.  The recipient is planning to resell them and has no problem being up front with duties.  I am just looking for the most cost effective shipper - USPS, FED EX ,UPS etc and if anyone had any opinions on any of them.  Thanks.

[mojotron]

You really have to ask for quotes from USPS and UPS...

What it comes down to is weight, size and insurance...

Typically, Global express (USPS) works for individual effects that have to get there with in like 3 days for ~$18.00/each.... but UPS has much more affordable rates for packages for 5-4 week delivery that cost a lot less....