Shipping Suitcases To Bolivia: A Guide For Americans

Sending a suitcase from the US to Bolivia can be a complicated and expensive process, especially as Bolivia is a landlocked country. There are a variety of courier services available, such as MyUS, ParcelABC, and Coolparcel, which offer different prices depending on the weight and measurements of your suitcase, as well as the speed of delivery. It is important to note that certain items are prohibited from being imported into Bolivia, such as certain substances and materials, books, coffee and coffee samples, and alcoholic drinks.

Choosing a courier service

When choosing a courier service to send a suitcase from the US to Bolivia, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, it is important to select a reputable company with experience in international shipping, especially to South America. Well-known global carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL are popular choices, with established networks and partnerships in Bolivia. These companies often offer a range of delivery options, from express to economy services, allowing you to choose the best option for your budget and time frame.

Another factor to consider is the weight and dimensions of your suitcase. Courier services typically calculate shipping costs based on weight and size, so ensure you have accurate measurements. Some companies may have weight restrictions or additional charges for larger or heavier items.

Additionally, it is crucial to research the prohibited and restricted items for import into Bolivia. This includes items such as certain substances, plant products, and used clothing. Failure to comply with these restrictions may result in fines or your package being held up at customs.

When choosing a courier, consider their tracking options, insurance, and customer support. Tracking your package provides peace of mind and allows you to follow its journey. Insurance is also important, protecting you financially if your package is lost, stolen, or damaged during transit. Lastly, opt for a courier with responsive customer support to address any queries or concerns promptly.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a courier service to send your suitcase from the US to Bolivia, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Shipping costs

When choosing a shipping service, it's worth considering that express shipping will be significantly more costly, whereas economy shipping may be too slow for your needs. DHL, UPS, and FedEx are all reliable options for shipping to Bolivia and offer a range of delivery times.

To get an accurate quote for shipping your suitcase, you will need to provide details such as the weight and dimensions of your suitcase, as well as the desired delivery time. Using an international shipping calculator can help you compare prices and shipping times across different providers.

Some shipping companies, like MyUS, offer package consolidation services, which can help reduce international shipping rates by combining multiple packages into one. This can be especially beneficial if you are sending multiple suitcases or items.

Additionally, factors such as the type of items you are shipping can impact the cost. Certain restricted items, such as illegal drugs and substances used in cocaine production, are prohibited from being shipped to Bolivia and should be avoided.

Prohibited items

When shipping a suitcase to Bolivia from the US, it is important to be aware of prohibited items. These vary widely but can be easily researched on the customs website of the destination country. Sending something on the prohibited list can result in your package being confiscated, and in some cases, you may be prosecuted.

• Any substance, chemical compound, or material that could be used for cocaine or coca products.
• Books (hardback, paperback, non-commercial).
• Coffee and coffee samples.
• Log and wood products from Liberia.
• Labels and magnetized materials.
• Used clothing, second-hand footwear, accessories, household linen, used blankets, mats, and carpets.
• Prescription medications, including dental and veterinary.
• Prescription medical devices.
• Medical devices not FDA-approved.
• Prohormones, Human Growth Hormones, stem cell treatments, steroids, or synthetic versions.
• Non-prescription medications, any food, supplement, drug, or cosmetic that has been issued a Consumer Safety Advisory Warning, and other products that are not labelled in English or without FDA-approved labelling requirements.
• Perishable products of any kind.
• Lab reagents, biologics, cultures, and medical specimens.
• Poisonous, toxic, infectious, or radioactive substances.
• Explosives, fireworks, gun powder, flares, or matches.
• Gasoline, diesel, or other fuels.
• Lighters containing fuel.
• Meals Ready to Eat (MRE).
• Pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides.
• Self-balancing boards (hoverboards).
• Firearms, guns, and accessories, including replicas.
• BB/pellet/airsoft/paintball guns, parts, and projectiles.
• Ammunition, magazines, and bayonets.
• Tear gas, mace, and pepper spray.
• Gas masks and gas mask filters.
• Law enforcement striking weapons, including saps, batons, and billy clubs.
• Handcuffs of any material, including plastic zip tie restraints and straitjackets.
• Body armor, helmets, or personal protection articles with kevlar or ballistic ratings.
• Military/tactical/police shields.
• Government, police, or military uniforms, IDs, and badges (real or replica).
• Military training equipment.
• Military and/or dual-use flight helmets and flight jumpsuits.
• Military and law enforcement equipment.
• Thermal imaging, InfraRed, or other night vision devices.
• Rifle scopes, laser pointing, and aiming devices for firearms.
• Defense articles controlled under the US Munitions List as defined under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
• Self-propelled vehicles.
• Any dual-use or commercial article controlled under the Commerce Control List (CCL) as defined under the Export Administration Regulations, requiring a Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) approved export license.
• Counterfeit products.
• Contraband or illegal substances.
• Gambling devices and accessories.
• Lock-picking devices.
• Live or dead animals or insects.
• Skin or leather of snakes, alligators, crocodiles, stingrays, and other reptiles or amphibians.
• Skin, fur, or leather of certain animals, including wolves, bears, elephants, rhinos, and some deer and foxes.
• Sturgeon or Beluga caviar.
• Agricultural products, including certain seeds, live or dead plants, unfinished or untreated wood, and soil.
• Items containing animal products controlled under the Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, or requiring a permit under CITES.
• Any unidentifiable material, substance, or chemical.
• Tobacco products (including e-cigarettes and vaping products) for FedEx, DHL, UPS, and USPS carriers.
• Plants and plant products.

Tracking your suitcase

Choose a Reliable Courier Service:

Select a reputable courier company that offers tracking services for international shipments. Research their website or contact their customer support to confirm if they provide real-time tracking for shipments to Bolivia. Look for companies with a good track record and read reviews from previous customers to ensure they offer reliable tracking.

Obtain a Tracking Number:

A tracking number is essential for monitoring your shipment. When you hand over your suitcase to the courier service, make sure to get a tracking number for your shipment. This unique number will be used to identify and track your package throughout its journey. Keep this number safe, as you will need it to access tracking information.

Track on the Courier's Website:

Most courier companies offer online tracking through their websites. Visit the official website of the courier company you chose and look for a "Tracking" or "Package Tracking" section. Enter your tracking number in the provided field and follow the instructions to view the current location and status of your shipment.

Use Third-Party Tracking Platforms:

If you prefer, you can also use third-party tracking platforms such as AfterShip. These platforms allow you to track packages from multiple shipping companies in one place. Simply enter your tracking number on their website or app, and they will provide you with the latest information about your shipment.

Understand Tracking Updates:

Familiarize yourself with common tracking status updates to understand the progress of your shipment. Here are some standard USPS tracking statuses and their meanings:

• "In Transit": Your package is on its way to the destination and may be processed at various facilities along the route.
• "Arrived at USPS Facility": Your package has reached a specific USPS facility for processing.
• "Departed USPS Facility": The package has left a USPS facility and is en route to its final destination.
• "Out for Delivery": Your package is out for delivery and will be delivered to the specified address.
• "Delivered": The package has been successfully delivered to the recipient's address.

Contact Customer Support:

If you encounter any issues with tracking or have questions about the status of your shipment, don't hesitate to contact the courier company's customer support. They can provide additional assistance, answer your questions, and help resolve any tracking-related concerns you may have.

Remember to keep your tracking number confidential to prevent unauthorized access to your shipment's information. By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively track your suitcase from the US to Bolivia and stay informed about its progress every step of the way.

Preparing your suitcase for shipping

Choose a Sturdy Suitcase:

Select a durable suitcase designed to hold substantial amounts of luggage. Avoid using designer, lightweight shell suitcases, spinner suitcases, or suitcases with extendable handles, as these may be more susceptible to damage during transit.

Pack Carefully:

When packing your belongings, handle fragile items with care. Do not pack any prohibited items, such as aerosol cans, lithium-ion batteries, prescription medications, or valuables like jewellery. Check the prohibited items list for the specific shipping service you're using to ensure compliance.

Secure the Suitcase:

Refrain from locking your suitcase. Instead, secure the zippers with cable ties or strings. If your suitcase has an extendable handle, make sure to secure it with tape to prevent accidental deployment during transit.

Attach Labels Securely:

Clearly and securely attach the address labels to your suitcase. Use label holders, if possible, as they are designed for safe transit. Attach one set of labels to the front of your suitcase and include a backup label inside. Additionally, attach a packing list and any necessary customs documentation alongside the address label.

Book a Collection:

Book a collection for your suitcase online or by phone, providing details such as the measurements of your suitcase, collection address, and delivery address. Ensure that someone is available to hand over the suitcase to the driver at the collection point.

By following these steps, you can confidently prepare your suitcase for shipping, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Frequently asked questions