So... like many things in South Africa, receiving packages is a little difficult. If you are going to mail me something, it seems that the cheapest way to get it here is inside of a manila bubble mailer. South Africa charges me a "duty" fee for all packages received on my end so to make it cheaper on all of us here are some tips:
1. When you mail it to SA it is called an "international parcel."
2. You must fill out a green customs form.
3. When they ask you detailed description of items DO NOT give extensive details. (ie) If you mailed me a North Face coat you don't want to put the brand or type...just put "jacket."
4. If you mail me food don't mark perishable or it will never get here.
5. No matter the actual value of the items don't mark a value down. Just leave it blank or put a VERY small dollar amount (like $3, $5, $7)
6. Don't bother paying for insurance on it. No matter what goes in the parcel, USPS will not reimburse for more than $250 US dollars and the reimbursement to you is automatic if they lose it.
7. Mark "OTHER" not "gift". They charge me more if it's a "gift."
Other than all of that :) Mail away!
No 2 Rameron Ave
Imhoff's Gift
Kommetjie
South Africa
7979
Love to all- Ames
Have you STILL not received anything from me?!