The holiday and post-holiday sales periods are some of the busiest times for international shipping. People across the United States take advantage of discounts to send gifts, products, or online purchases to friends, family, and customers in Europe.
If you’re preparing to send parcel from the US to Spain, it’s worth reviewing a few proven strategies for efficient delivery. The official Meest-America website provides details on packaging, customs requirements, and delivery timelines so you can plan without surprises.
Understanding Seasonal Shipping Costs
Shipping prices often fluctuate based on demand, destination, and parcel size. During sales seasons such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or traditional winter discounts, logistics networks face heavier traffic. This leads to limited space on flights and higher carrier fees.
Booking your shipment early — ideally two weeks before the sales peak — can secure better rates. Carriers often release special deals or discounted rates for early senders.
The Role of Package Weight and Size
Most international services charge by dimensional weight. A lightweight but large box can cost more than a small, dense one. To reduce fees, use compact packaging and avoid unnecessary fillers. If you’re sending multiple items, consider combining them into one parcel rather than several small ones.
Comparing Delivery Options
Different carriers offer varying levels of service. Economy options may take longer but cost significantly less. Using platforms like the Meest portal, you can compare estimated delivery times and fees in real time. It’s also possible to calculate the price based on exact parcel dimensions before shipping, so you always know what to expect.
How to Pack Efficiently and Avoid Hidden Costs
Proper packing isn’t just about safety — it directly affects price. Carriers use both weight and volume to calculate costs, so every inch counts. When preparing your parcel:
- Choose a sturdy but lightweight box made of corrugated cardboard.
- Wrap fragile items with minimal bubble wrap or foam, avoiding bulky materials.
- Use flat packaging for clothing and soft goods.
- Seal the parcel tightly with quality tape to prevent reopening during customs inspection.
It’s also wise to print your shipping label and customs declaration directly from the online portal, which automatically generates forms with all required information. Incorrect or incomplete documentation can lead to customs holds and extra storage fees.
Taking Advantage of Discounts and Consolidation
Many senders overlook an easy way to save — consolidating multiple purchases into one shipment. During major U.S. sales, people often buy items from different stores that can be combined into a single package. This not only reduces per-item cost but also simplifies customs clearance.
For small online sellers in the U.S., this approach helps maintain competitive pricing for European customers. Instead of shipping each order separately, batch shipments and plan them around slower customs periods.
Some logistics platforms, including Meest-America, provide warehouse and parcel consolidation services that automatically group packages for cost-effective international delivery.
Customs, Duties, and Prohibited Items
Customs regulations are one of the main factors affecting delivery cost. Spain, as part of the European Union, applies import duties and VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods entering from non-EU countries. The amount depends on the type and value of the items.
To minimize additional charges, clearly state that your shipment is for personal use and declare its correct value. Gifts below €45 are typically exempt from customs duty, though taxes may still apply in some cases. Always check the official EU customs limits before shipping.
Avoid including prohibited or restricted goods, as this can result in confiscation or fines. Items you should not send include:
- alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products;
- perishable foods, plants, or seeds;
- cash, jewelry, or precious metals;
- aerosols, perfumes, or flammable materials;
- counterfeit or branded replicas.
Keeping your parcel within regulations helps prevent unnecessary expenses and guarantees safe delivery.
Timing and Tracking for Smooth Delivery
Once your parcel is shipped, tracking helps you stay informed and plan for delivery. Most standard shipments from the U.S. to Spain take 7–14 business days, depending on customs and destination city.
Regularly checking updates through the Meest portal ensures you know if there are delays or if customs requires additional documents. Sending during off-peak hours or mid-week can further improve transit speed.
Finally, remember that shipping early saves money, but accurate paperwork saves time — both equally valuable during the sales season.
Conclusions
Sending parcels to Spain during busy shopping periods doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning, compact packaging, and correct documentation, you can keep shipping costs manageable and avoid seasonal surcharges.
By comparing options, consolidating purchases, and staying ahead of deadlines, even individuals and small businesses can make international delivery affordable. For U.S. senders, Meest offers transparent pricing tools and online management that simplify the process. Whether for gifts, online purchases, or business products, early planning and informed decisions ensure your parcel reaches Spain quickly, safely, and within budget.
