Computer Shipped & Arrived

[intrepid]

For those concerned about shipping a computer in a Balikbayan Box, I will will share my recent experience.  About a year ago, one of our friends shipped a laptop in a box to their family in Davao area along with several other new items.  The shipping inventory did not list the computer or several other shoes and ladies handbags which were new.   The box had been opened/inspected and only those new unlisted items were confiscated/stolen.  His shipper stated since the items were not listed on the inventory, they would not be covered as a loss.  He did not list them because he was afraid of the import duty/tax, mainly on the computer.
Since we planned to ship a laptop to my nephew in college I was somewhat concerned.  We decided to ship in a balikbayan box and list on the inventory.  I got a really good deal on black friday so I thought if we were charged a duty tax, it would still be worth it.
We shipped the box on December 12, 2012.  My wife is at this moment talking with the family and the box arrived today March 12, 2013 in San Carlos City.  We are so happy to report nothing missing and the box was unopened!  No extra duty or tax was requested!  I was really sweating this one because my plan was to put the laptop in one of my used computer bags before shipping.  However, my wife had packed the box while I was at work and did not tell me until after I completely tapped the balikbayan box that she left the laptop in the original sales box.  My hope was to make it looked like a used laptop and not raise suspicions in a new box.  Well, not to worry now.  I guess for us, I will continue to list all valuable items on shipping inventory in the future shipments.
note*  this information is just for your consideration.  Your milage may vary!
danny

[JJReyes]

The opening of balikbayan boxes is random except when customs agents are tipped off or there is something suspicious about the box. The example would be a balikbayan box that is extremely heavy and there is no explanation on the declaration form. I use to itemized, but one of the pick-up drivers told me just to put, "Used Household Goods" on the form. Making the computer or laptop look used is also a good idea. You can't fool the customs agents, but if it is not in the original box, there is a diminished value when they try to sell the computer after stealing it.

[i am bob]

I was surprised...  The duty on a case for a netbook was a lot more than the duty on a netbook.  I can't remember the exact values right now but I wouldn't ship the case next time...  hehe!

[sjp52]

I sent a 51 " Samsung LCD in the original box. The tv was maybe 6 months old but in mint condition. The box was huge. They charged me double to send it ( $250 ), But the amount of stuff I could slide down the sides made up about 4 more BB Boxes so was well worth it. I was surprised that they never opened it and it arrived safely ( took 11 or 12 weeks, it sat in Manila wear house for 3 weeks ). I have sent maybe 25 boxes all together since I started going to the Philippines and all have arrived safe with no issues.

[bootleultras]

I used to get lot of duty free alcohol at great prices...which me being me couldn't resist. :) me and my wife used to fill BB boxes with stuff we needed to send home basically to pad the box for our booze, not once were the boxes opened and the booze always arrived untouched......there's not much left now! :cheersty:

[i am bob]

I sent a 51 " Samsung LCD in the original box. The tv was maybe 6 months old but in mint condition. The box was huge. They charged me double to send it ( $250 ), But the amount of stuff I could slide down the sides made up about 4 more BB Boxes so was well worth it. I was surprised that they never opened it and it arrived safely ( took 11 or 12 weeks, it sat in Manila wear house for 3 weeks ). I have sent maybe 25 boxes all together since I started going to the Philippines and all have arrived safe with no issues.

 

Just out of curiosity, Scott, which company did you use?

[sjp52]

I sent a 51 " Samsung LCD in the original box. The tv was maybe 6 months old but in mint condition. The box was huge. They charged me double to send it ( $250 ), But the amount of stuff I could slide down the sides made up about 4 more BB Boxes so was well worth it. I was surprised that they never opened it and it arrived safely ( took 11 or 12 weeks, it sat in Manila wear house for 3 weeks ). I have sent maybe 25 boxes all together since I started going to the Philippines and all have arrived safe with no issues.

 

Just out of curiosity, Scott, which company did you use?

I,m not sure. I know a little Filipina around the corner from me and she sends all my boxes. When I see her next time I will ask