Forex balikbayan boxes are a popular way for Filipinos living abroad to send gifts and care packages to their loved ones back home. These boxes are specifically designed to be shipped from one country to another and are often used to send items that are difficult to find in the Philippines. If you’re living in Houston and looking to send a forex balikbayan box to Manila, you may be wondering how much it will cost. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that can affect the cost of shipping a forex balikbayan box from Houston to Manila.
The first thing to consider when calculating the cost of shipping a forex balikbayan box is the size of the box. Forex offers three sizes of boxes: regular, jumbo, and super jumbo. The regular box measures 23 x 20 x 17 inches, the jumbo box measures 23 x 20 x 34 inches, and the super jumbo box measures 29 x 23 x 26 inches. Naturally, the larger the box, the more it will cost to ship. However, keep in mind that shipping a larger box may be more cost-effective if you have a lot of items to send.
Another factor that can affect the cost of shipping a forex balikbayan box is the weight of the box. Forex charges by weight, with prices starting at $65 for a regular box weighing up to 20 pounds. The price increases by $5 for every additional pound up to 50 pounds. If your box weighs more than 50 pounds, additional charges may apply. It’s important to note that packing materials, such as bubble wrap and packing peanuts, can add to the weight of your box, so it’s best to keep your packaging materials to a minimum.
In addition to the size and weight of your forex balikbayan box, the destination also plays a role in determining the cost of shipping. Forex offers shipping to over 30 cities in the Philippines, including Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Bacolod. Shipping to more remote locations may be more expensive than shipping to major cities. For example, shipping a regular box from Houston to Manila costs $65, while shipping the same box to Bacolod costs $80.
Finally, it’s important to consider any additional fees that may apply. Forex charges a $5 handling fee for every box shipped, and there may be additional charges for items that require special handling, such as refrigerated items or electronics. It’s also important to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation for your shipment, including a customs declaration form and a list of the items in your box. Failure to provide accurate documentation can result in additional fees and delays.
In conclusion, the cost of shipping a forex balikbayan box from Houston to Manila can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and weight of the box, the destination, and any additional fees. However, with prices starting at $65 for a regular box weighing up to 20 pounds, forex balikbayan boxes are an affordable and convenient way to send gifts and care packages to your loved ones in the Philippines. Just be sure to pack your box carefully and provide accurate documentation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience.
