If you know at least one overseas Filipino worker, you probably know that sending a balikbayan box back to the Philippines is part of the culture. In fact, relatives back in the country look forward to receiving these boxes during special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas. It is not a duty to be complied with by the worker. Instead, it is a way to show his family that he is thinking of them.
It may seem expensive to send a box of gifts abroad. However, someone who knows where to find great items at low prices does not spend so much when they prepare their gift boxes. In fact some slowly fills their boxes each time they find a good deal and then they just ship everything once every year.
Think of items that the worker's family can use in their daily lives. These are the most common things included in this box. Clothes, gadgets and appliances fit into a box on its way to the Philippines. Even furniture is also sent to the country. Items not available locally such as makeup or electronics are also part of a wishlist. Not to miss are chocolates for kids and adults alike.
One of the secrets of people sending treats back home is that they shop during clearance sales and special events. They also look for special deals on regular items such as "buy one, get one" options. Second hand items, especially when it comes to home appliances, are also very much welcome in the Philippines. These do not cost as much as brand new or newly launched products.
These boxes come in different sizes. Some shipping companies charge based on the size while other charge based on weight. Sometimes how the box is billed depends on what items are being shipped. For people sending clothes and food items, the one cubic meter box is a great option. For bulkier items and to ship more, some send a two meters high box, which is almost the same size as a fridge for a small family.
For smaller boxes or fewer items, Filipinos just ask some friends going into the country to take something for them and to meet their families once they arrive. For higher value items, it may be necessary to use international delivery such as UPS or Fedex. For large boxes, there are companies that offer bulk shipping. They accumulate the boxes to be sent and ship them about once or twice a month. This balances cost and protection for the items.
If the items travel by plane, expect that it may just take a week or two for the items to get to the families in the country. However, for a larger box, which may have to travel by sea, it could be a month or even beyond before the recipients get the items. If items are expected to be received by a certain date, it is best to send the items at least a month in advance.
When choosing ways on sending a gift box, consider when the item should reach the family in the Philippines. Also check if there is an insurance to protect high value items against loss or damage.
It may seem expensive to send a box of gifts abroad. However, someone who knows where to find great items at low prices does not spend so much when they prepare their gift boxes. In fact some slowly fills their boxes each time they find a good deal and then they just ship everything once every year.
Think of items that the worker's family can use in their daily lives. These are the most common things included in this box. Clothes, gadgets and appliances fit into a box on its way to the Philippines. Even furniture is also sent to the country. Items not available locally such as makeup or electronics are also part of a wishlist. Not to miss are chocolates for kids and adults alike.
One of the secrets of people sending treats back home is that they shop during clearance sales and special events. They also look for special deals on regular items such as "buy one, get one" options. Second hand items, especially when it comes to home appliances, are also very much welcome in the Philippines. These do not cost as much as brand new or newly launched products.
These boxes come in different sizes. Some shipping companies charge based on the size while other charge based on weight. Sometimes how the box is billed depends on what items are being shipped. For people sending clothes and food items, the one cubic meter box is a great option. For bulkier items and to ship more, some send a two meters high box, which is almost the same size as a fridge for a small family.
For smaller boxes or fewer items, Filipinos just ask some friends going into the country to take something for them and to meet their families once they arrive. For higher value items, it may be necessary to use international delivery such as UPS or Fedex. For large boxes, there are companies that offer bulk shipping. They accumulate the boxes to be sent and ship them about once or twice a month. This balances cost and protection for the items.
If the items travel by plane, expect that it may just take a week or two for the items to get to the families in the country. However, for a larger box, which may have to travel by sea, it could be a month or even beyond before the recipients get the items. If items are expected to be received by a certain date, it is best to send the items at least a month in advance.
When choosing ways on sending a gift box, consider when the item should reach the family in the Philippines. Also check if there is an insurance to protect high value items against loss or damage.
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You can get an overview of the things to keep in mind when picking a provider of balikbayan box shipping services at http://www.solomonexpresscargo.com/about now.
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