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If shipping from the states, like NY NJ Pa any of those places there are all kinds of shippers at pretty good prices, The blue barrels are used because they are reusable here in the DR. Don’t even think of using a company like EPS, that’s for small stuff. Their prices per lb will kill you. I believe prices run from $95 to $125 per box, a pretty decent sized one too, weight does not matter.don’t believe there is limit either. Retired in 2020, must of sent about 8 boxes gym equipment, and a piece of furniture.

@wondering9

Hello. Regarding question #2, depending on how much books/clothes you are bringing, just buying a really large suitcase may work.  United allows you to also check in a box, if you go to their site it tells you the dimensions.  I’ve don’t this several times.  Aside from this if you are in NY/NJ area, like the other person mentioned there are several options to use that are cost effective.  I personally use Luciano Shipping because they do pick ups from my home.  I also have a BMCargo account.  Hope this helps

A Mudanza is a shipping company. That word is used a lot too indicate Dominican republic companies. They will do barrels, appliances, boxes etc door to door depending where you are currently located. Most of the time it includes clearing customs (Aduanas) here. Try them first.

If you search other threads you will find recommended companies, again depending where you are.

@wondering9

For the small stuff have you considered just bringing them in a large suitcase or a box? I fly United and they allow you to check in boxes, if you go to their website it will give you the dimensions.  I’ve done this several times.  If your stuff won’t fit, then like the other person said you can use a shipper like BMCargo.

Thanks Kris, I think that's what I'm going to end up doing. I don't have that much stuff and it looks like it will be easier to downsize that last bit than it would be to deal with shipping, storage, customs, etc., especially since I'm a long way from a seaport.

I've been reading through the different airlines' baggage rules and trying to figure out how to get the most out of them without risking going over and owing a big penalty. My current preferred solution is 0.75" over the maximum so I'm wondering just how picky the airlines are on this, but probably better safe than sorry.

I still have a few weeks (optimistically speaking!) as I am still struggling with the US bureaucracy and haven't even gotten to the Dominican bureaucracy yet 😳. But I think I will end up doing what you suggested.

@Kris Wade-Thomas

I just set up an account with BMCargo. I wasn’t able to figure out where to enter the credit card information so when I’m there next week, I’ll stop into their local office and see if I can complete the process. In the meantime I sent myself an inexpensive little item to arrive on there and I’ll track how long it takes and probably pay for it at that time. Wish me luck

@wondering9

there are companies in NY, NY and Miami.  Dominicans recommended them.  You can ship boxes (70-75 USD).  Pretty big ones.  Does not matter how much it weights.  I use them all the time.  Please DM me if you want more information.

Best wishes,

Anna

Another vote for mudanza, we use them from Europe, local Dominicans. Pro’s: fixed price, pick up at home and delivered at home in the DR, unlimited weight and aduanas clearance. No hassle. I always fill up every bit of space in items and the box. More expensive stuff halfway the box out of sight. Btw I always fully tape the whole box when ready, not only for the weight and transport (damage) but also for weather after witnessing one of our boxes delivered in the pouring rain in the back of a jeep, so soaked it almost fell apart!

I just wanted to add a quick PS that might interest more minimalist-type folks. I was in a bit of a grey zone (too much stuff for some options, too little for others), so decided to go the route that some people recommended and just bring a minimum amount of belongings via airline checked luggage.

Just now booked my flight on American (which, at least on paper, is more forgiving of slight weight and size overages). As I was completing the purchase online, one of the upsell offers was to upgrade to business class for LESS than it would have cost to upgrade to "main cabin plus", much less than it would have cost if I'd chosen that originally, and only $25 more than it would have cost me to fly "main cabin" and pay for checked luggage. And I get a free meal 🤣🤣🤣.

I don't know how their algorithms work but it looks like I lucked out. It's not something you can count on, I assume, but good to keep your eyes peeled just in case.

@Kris Wade-Thomas

How are they I'm looking for a new shipper I'm in Jersey . The one I used went from being good to bad.

@wondering9

I had that exact scenario with delta, but when I arrived at the airport, I was told that since it was an upgrade and not an original purchase, the luggage perk was not included and I had to pay for all of the extra bags, was limited to 50 lb baggage weight and not the 70lb.  It was a mess and a huge disappointment.  I would definitely call and confirm in advance if all business class perks are included and have them follow up with an email just in case there’s a discrepancy at the counter.

@Bugbudy yikes! thanks for the heads-up! I'll look into it. Sorry you had such a rotten last-minute surprise.