Parcel Forwarding For Travelers And Ex-Pats Explained

Jun 20, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 1, 2025

Travel Guides

Few experiences compare to traveling or living abroad. The thrill of immersing yourself in a vibrant new culture or experiencing the lifestyle of a different country is unrivaled.

But despite the sheer joy of these adventures, many travelers and ex-pats will miss certain home comforts from time to time. Whether it’s your favorite snack or a specific brand of skincare you’ve always used, there are always things we miss when we’re abroad.

But getting your hands on your favorite products when you’re abroad can be a challenge. Local international shops have limited options, and international fees can quickly get expensive. The good news is there’s a simple solution — parcel forwarding services.

If you’re an ex-pat or a globetrotter looking to buy products from home, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together everything you need to know about parcel forwarding in one place.

Understanding Parcel Forwarding

At its core, parcel forwarding is a pretty straightforward concept- pretty much like what Canada shipping companies do. It’s a service designed to make international shopping easier and give access to a wider range of products.

We’ll dig into the specific steps of how it works later, but here’s roughly how it works:

  1. Go to your favorite eCommerce store and shop as you usually would
  2. When it comes to ordering the products, you use a local delivery address that your parcel forwarding service has provided.
  3. The parcel forwarding service receives your order, usually at a warehouse where it will be processed.
  4. The company will ship your parcel to you wherever you are in the world.

Essentially, the parcel forwarding service gives you a local address and then takes care of getting your parcel to you. Plus, they often offer parcel consolidation, so you can order from multiple places and just pay one shipping fee.

The Benefits Of Parcel Forwarding

Obviously, the biggest benefit of parcel forwarding is you can order from anywhere in the world without having to worry about shipping restrictions. But the benefits go well beyond that:

Consolidation Of Multiple Purchases

One of the significant benefits of parcel forwarding services is the ability to consolidate multiple purchases into a single shipment. This not only simplifies the tracking process but can also save substantially on international shipping costs.

Reduced Shipping Rates

Parcel forwarding companies have contracts with leading courier companies, which allow them to negotiate lower shipping rates. These reduced rates are passed on to customers, making international shipping more affordable.

Reliable And Secure

Parcel forwarding services are known for their reliability and security. They ensure your packages are safely stored and securely shipped to your destination. In many cases, insurance is also available for added protection.

Flexible Delivery Options

Whether you need express delivery, standard shipping, or other specialized shipping methods, you can select the best option for your situation.

Efficient And Time-Saving

Parcel forwarding takes the hassle out of international shipping. They manage all aspects, including customs documentation, which can save customers a significant amount of time.

Your Step-By-Step Guide To Parcel Forwarding

Now you understand what parcel forwarding is and why it’s a fantastic tool for international shoppers, let’s dive into how to make the most of it:

Step 1: Choose Your Parcel Forwarding Service

Start by selecting a parcel forwarding service provider aligned with your needs. Look for a company with a good reputation, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and flexible shipping options.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Account

Once you’ve selected a service, the next step is to set up an account. During this process, you’ll provide essential details such as your contact information, shipping address, and payment details.

Step 3: Time To Shop!

Now comes the fun part — shopping! When you’re ready to checkout, simply use the address provided by your parcel forwarding service.

Step 4: Handling Your Parcels

Once your items arrive at the forwarding service’s warehouse, they’ll notify you. At this stage, you can choose to consolidate multiple packages or select your preferred shipping method.

Step 5: Forwarding Your Parcels

Finally, your items are forwarded to your current location. Choose your preferred shipping method, pay the associated costs, and wait for your package to arrive!

Tips And Tricks For Parcel Forwarding

Just like any process, there are a few tips and tricks to make parcel forwarding a breeze:

  1. Merge your packages — If you’re shopping from multiple stores, take advantage of your service’s package consolidation feature. This can significantly reduce your overall shipping costs.
  2. Check prohibited items — Always check the shipping restrictions of your current country before making a purchase. A good parcel forwarding service should have a comprehensive list of prohibited items for reference.
  3. Repackaging options — Look for parcel forwarding services offering repackaging to reduce shipping weight and subsequent costs.

As a traveler or ex-pat, parcel forwarding is a fantastic tool for maintaining access to your favorite products without the hassle and high costs of international shipping. So the next time you crave a taste of home or spot a must-have item, don’t let shipping restrictions hold you back.

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Arnab is a professional blogger, having an enormous interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, He carries out sharing sentient blogs.

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BY  Sibashree May 28, 2024

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READ MORE National Parks In Arkansas

A Guide To National Parks In Arkansas – Latest Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 1, 2021

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READ MORE Kenai Fjords National Park

Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park 

BY  Sibashree Jul 29, 2024

Kenai Fjords National Park is a place rich in biodiversity. Like the Dry Tortugas National Park, it also harbors a diverse marine ecosystem and a wide range of birds.   Further, it is an elusive land of glaciers, icy lands, rocky mountains, and green canopies. It is also the park where you can take part in activities like hunting, fishing, petting at Exit Glacier, boating, and kayaking. However, the most fascinating activity to do here is watching wildlife.   Here, I will be your entourage in finding how the wilderness becomes alive at the Kenai Fjords National Park.   Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife   The Kenai Fjords National Park has one of the highest footfalls among the national parks of America. In 2023, 387,525 people visited this National Park thanks to its wildlife and the most dramatic landscape with glaciers, mountains, ocean, and valleys. (Source)   Further, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game explains why and how the geographical features of the National Park make it rich in wildlife and biodiversity. About the habitat, it says,   “The park contains shallow bays and estuaries, and deeper marine habitats. Regional currents drive nutrients into outer Resurrection Bay, making that area especially rich in fish and an early location for spring bloom of plankton and algae. Cliffs and rocky shores create nesting sites for birds and haul-out areas for marine mammals.”  Do you want a slice of wildlife at this park where whales and mountain goats cohabit in the most amazing way? Let’s explore.   However, if you are more interested in amphibians and reptiles, the Everglades National Park will be your go-to destination.   Whales At Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife  Watching the whales is one of the best activities to do at Kenai Fjords National Park. You can see the whales here throughout the year.   The table below presents a sneak peek into the different species of whales and their best viewing time.  Type of Whale  Best Viewing Time  Humpback Whale Mid-May to August Orca or Killer Whale Mid-May to June Gray Whale Mid-April to May Fin Whale May to September  You can easily spot whales on the surface of the water. As they spout, fluke dive, breach, or spy hop in the water, you will get to know about their playful nature.   The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ensures that cruising companies and visitors maintain respectful behavior when they are on whale-watching trips.   Other Sea Mammals At Kenai Fjords  Kenai Fjords is home to many sea mammals along with various species of whales. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Dall’s Porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, and sea lions.   Dall’s Porpoise  Dall’s Porpoises look like orcas but are faster. They eat lanternfish, octopus, and squid.   Harbor Seals  You will find these cute sea mammals resting around active glaciers. They also stay on ice floes. They love to eat shellfish and fish.   Sea Otters  You will spot the playful sea otters swimming on their back in the water. They love fish, crabs, sea urchins, and squids.  They are furry, and the funniest thing is to see them using their bellies as tables. For sure, you will want to grab a soft toy version of these sea mammals.   Stellar Sea Lions   Stellar sea lions are an endangered species, and they stay on the icy shore of the sea. They have reddish fur, and they are 6-8 in height.  These mammals survive on fish and mollusks.   Birds At Kenai Fjords  From the NPS archive, a historical document on Kenai Fjords National Park says,   “Kenai Fjords provides habitat for at least 191 species of birds. The black oystercatcher spends most of its time feeding in the rich intertidal zone. Tufted and horned puffins nest in rock crevices along the coast. Bald eagles patrol the waters in search of salmon and other fish.”   It’s time we meet the birds and learn briefly about them.   Horned Puffins  These beautiful birds have unique black horn-like markings over their eyes. The touch of red on the tip of their beaks further makes them easily distinguishable.  You must visit the Kenai Fjords from mid-May to August to catch a glimpse of these birds.   Bald Eagles   You may catch bald eagles preying on fish and waterfowl. They get their name from their white-feathered head.   Peregrine Falcons  Known for excellent hunting abilities, peregrine falcons have a vibrant touch of yellow around their eyes and on their beaks.   Along with these birds, you can also see birds like the common murre, black-legged kittiwake, and cormorant at Kenai Fjords National Park.   Land Mammals At Kenai Fjords  Mountain goats and brown and black bears are common at Kenai Fjords. The mountain goats have split hooves for a better grip on the mountains and on the snowy land.   Further, many people visit the Kenai Fjords only to meet black and brown bears. These bears love eating fish, berries, and other vegetation.   Final Words   Global temperature changes and glacier melting have challenged the vast wilderness at Kenai Fjords National Park. Further, the movements of crustal plates beneath the Earth's surface make the landscape and its ecosystem volatile.   So, there is nothing permanent about the animals found in this park, stretching over 1000 square miles of water and land. Also, it is impossible to know about all the species habituating here thanks to the geographical nature and dramatic differences in weather conditions across seasons.  Nevertheless, as you take a tour of this rich national park on a cruise or explore its various parks, make sure to abide by the safety norms. Respect nature and its inhabitants!  This is the best way to experience the natural abundance the park is known for.   Do you have plans to visit the Kenai Fjords anytime soon? What do you find the most amazing thing about it? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us!   Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park: FAQs  What Animals Can You See In Kenai Fjords National Park?  Kenai Fjords wilderness is vivid. As you take a cruise trip or explore the National Park, you will notice the seals first, comfortable on the floating ice in the sea. Further, the male and female sea lions make their presence felt on the icy seashore.   Kenai Fjords is home to many notable species of marine and land mammals. Also, you will find various birds here.  Whales, sea otters, Dall's porpoise, gray wolves, minks, and mountain goats are common animals here.   Birds such as puffins, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons will greet you as you visit this beautiful national park.   Can You See Bears In Kenai Fjords National Park?   Located at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Fjords has black and brown bears. Black bears are easily spotted, and they are more timid than brown bears.   The National Park Service has a set of safety guidelines, including not attracting bears with food and garbage and avoiding their personal spaces. Follow the norms to make your interaction with the bears delightful.   Can You See Northern Lights In Kenai Fjords National Park?   Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Kenai Fjords National Park during the autumn and winter seasons. The night sky of Kenai Fjords looks like the most amazing melange of green, purple, blue, and green shades.   If you are a religious soul, you must visit the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky. It’s the most divine experience.   For a spiritual journey, watch the lights over the Seward boat harbor.   When To See Whales In Kenai Fjords National Park?  You can see whales in Kenai Fjords National Park throughout the year. However, if you want to watch a specific species of whale among the varieties seen here, you must plan a trip according to the right season.   The best time for watching gray whales is March and April. In these months, gray whales migrate to this part of the world through the Gulf of Alaska.  Do you want to watch the humpback whales? You can see them from May to October. They flock in large numbers from Mexico and Hawaii. They live in the water here as they can find nutrient-rich food for them throughout the summer.   In addition, Orcas or the killer whales are seen in mid-May and June. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you will also see minke whales and fin whales in this area.   What Is Special About Kenai Fjords?   Your Alaska trip is incomplete without a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can see the best of the marine world. Also, it is the home to Northwestern, Aialik, and Holgate tidewater glaciers. Glaciers move relentlessly into the sea.   Further, it is the most picturesque landscape where mountains, an ancient icefield, valleys, cascading falls, forest canopies, and the great Pacific Ocean coexist. Thanks to this coexistence, Kenai Fjords National Park is rich in biodiversity. You will find humpback whales, sea otters, mountain goats and many species of birds in the National Park.   Designated as a National Park in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park also protects various archeological and historical remains. The park has many prehistoric, protohistoric, and historic sites.   Archeologists still conduct surveys in this park to learn more about the human way of living and why it has changed over the years.   Also read Things To Do In Rocky Mountains National Park. Top 10 National Parks In Oregon That You Need To Explore In 2023! What Is The Best Time To Visit Glacier National Park? Find The Answer Here!