Want to Shop from Germany? Here’s How a Virtual Address Can Help!
Germany is most known for its rich culture, history, stunning landscapes, and high-quality products. Whether it’s cutting-edge tech gadgets or the finest fashion, Germany is something like a shopper’s paradise. But shipping limitations or the high fees of shipping sometimes make this dream stay in the farthest corners of the minds of international buyers to shop from German stores. This is where having a virtual address in Germany comes into play. This single tool could open up a whole new world of shopping for you, offering you deals and products that otherwise would be inaccessible to you.
What Is a Virtual Address in Germany?
It’s a digital address where you, being an online shopper, could enjoy a mailing address in Germany but without literally needing to visit there. Examples include myGermany for international customers. Once one creates a virtual address, there’s a localized German address granted where one receives mail and unpacks packages delivered in Germany for reshipping purposes, among others.
Think of it as a bridge between you and German e-commerce. Instead of being limited to stores that offer international shipping or only shipping to certain countries, a virtual address opens up the entire German market to you
How Does a Virtual Address Work?
Once you sign up for a virtual address with a provider like myGermany, you will receive a unique German address. This address will be in a major city such as Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich, thus giving it the “local” feel, although you are miles away. Here is how the process goes:
Shop Online: You can browse German online shops like Zalando, Amazon Germany, or MediaMarkt. Then, when ready to make your purchase, enter your virtual address in Germany as the shipping address.
For international buyers, the Virtual Address Provider receives your package at your local German address. On your behalf, this provider receives your goods.
Forward Your Packages: As soon as items reach your virtual address, your provider will send them to your home address. It does not matter which part of the world you are in.
Pay for Shipping and Handling: You’ll typically pay for shipping, handling, and any customs duties (if applicable) when your packages are forwarded. Some services also offer consolidated shipping, which means they’ll group multiple packages together to save on shipping costs.
Benefits of Using a Virtual Address for Shopping
Germany offers a virtual address with dozens of benefits, especially for those who want to avail themselves of Germany’s premium shopping experience. The following are a few points on some reasons why, for an international buyer, a local address in Germany can be a game-changer:
- Access to Exclusive German Brands and Products
It hosts the world’s largest brands, most of which ship to only a country or just a few, so you will shop at places with no limits as to which part of town you are coming from with your virtual address. Whether it’s German fashion, automotive parts, beauty products, or technology, a virtual address unlocks access to a broad range of products you might otherwise miss out on. - Lower Shipping Costs and Fewer Restrictions
Sometimes, shipping charges from Germany to your country could be a little too pricey. A virtual address would enable receiving your goods first in Germany. It might just save you domestic shipping, or sometimes the whole cost can get even lower than usual, but it all depends on your current situation and flexibility.
A virtual address in Germany can help get around international shipping restrictions that many German retailers apply. It’s the perfect solution for shoppers based in regions where direct shipping from Germany isn’t possible. - Faster Deliveries
In some cases, international shipping from Germany can take a long time due to customs and logistics delays. When you use a virtual address, your packages are first delivered within Germany, where logistics are much more efficient. Once your goods are forwarded to you, the shipping process can be quicker, especially if the provider offers faster courier options like DHL Express. - More Control Over Your Shipments
Having a local address in Germany for international buyers means you have full control over your purchases. You can choose which items you want to forward, consolidate multiple shipments into one, and even request repackaging to reduce shipping costs. This flexibility allows you to make more informed choices about what to buy and when to ship it. - Enjoying Special Offers and Discounts
Some German stores offer special discounts or deals that are only available to local buyers. With a virtual address in Germany, you can take advantage of these promotions, as you’ll be considered a domestic customer. Plus, you may also be able to shop during local sales or exclusive events that might not be accessible to international customers.
How to Get Started with a Virtual Address
Getting started with a virtual address in Germany is straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Choose a Service Provider: Look for a reputable virtual address service provider like myGermany. Compare their fees, shipping options, and customer reviews to find the best match for your needs.
- Sign Up: Once you’ve selected a provider, you’ll need to sign up for an account. This will typically involve providing some personal details and agreeing to the terms of service.
- Start Shopping: After registration, you’ll receive your new local address in Germany for international buyers. Use this address whenever you shop from German online retailers.
- Forward Your Packages: After receiving your goods in Germany, you can opt to have them forwarded to your home address. Choose your preferred shipping method and pay any applicable fees.
- Enjoy Your Purchases: Once your items arrive, you can enjoy all the perks of shopping from Germany without ever leaving your home country.
Final Words
Shopping from Germany doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With a virtual address in Germany, international buyers can access the wide range of high-quality goods available in the German market. Whether you’re looking for exclusive German brands, cutting-edge technology, or designer fashion, a virtual address is the key to unlocking these treasures. By offering you a local address in Germany for international buyers, services like myGermany make it easier and more affordable to shop from one of Europe’s most desirable shopping destinations.
So, what are you waiting for? Start shopping from Germany today, and let a virtual address make your global shopping experience smoother than ever!
FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions
How does Package Forwarding work from Germany?
You can get packages sent to myGermany warehouse when you shop in Germany. Therefore you need to enter our address in the CheckOut (please register here >>). Once we have received your package, you need to define the next steps (consolidation, repacking, add/remove documents, select shipping method and transport insurance etc.)
Details please check here >>
How much does package forwarding from Germany cost? Are there andy additional fees or taxes with package forwarding?
You pay us only once you initiate the shipment. If we forward your package as it is there are no additional fees, Shipping Cost Calculator >>
We dont ask for any additional fees, except the additional services you require in your account (cost overview).
Check also your Membership Plans >>
If you ship form Germany to Non-EU countries, tax and duty might occur, which is to be paid by you. Please read more here >>
How are Shipping Rates Determined for package forwarding?
https://mygermany.com/shipping-cost-calculator/
Our shipping rate is composed of the cost of shipping service provider and our margin. So it already includes packing, customs paper/shipping paper preparation, outgoing and incoming customs clearance and delivery to the customer. It also covers all of our costs.
The costs of our shipping partners are based on zones (countries) – the further away from Germany and heavier the shipment, the more expensive the shipping.
Do you Repack? Can I Consolidate Multiple Packages into one shipment for cost savings?
Yes, we repack and consolidate for free. We use our own strong packaging material and 2-wavy cardboards.
We eveb provide a sophasticated and time-taking consolidation process where we unpack and newly repack in order to get it shipped the most economical way possible. That is done for our Premium Members >>
Are there any Subscription Plans for frequent users?
Yes there are.
Please check here: https://mygermany.com/subscriptions/
Do you provide Photographs of my items/parcels?
Yes, we take pictures of each incoming parcel for Premium and Business members. Please check our memberships here. A Detailed Pictures option is available in your account.
What Shipping Carriers are commonly used for package forwarding from Germany?
List of our partners, with them we collaborate and their rates we provide to you.
For Packages (Road, Air) we use:
– DHL Weltpaket (Economy & Premim)
– FedEx Economy & Premium
– TNT
– UPS Standard & Expedited & Express
– DPD Standard & Express
For Freight (Sea, Rail, Air, Road) we use:
– DHL Global Forwarding
– FedEx Freight
– DBSchenker
– DSV
More details check here >>
What are the typical Delivery Times for forwarded packages?
Please check our Shipping Cost Calculator entering your country and you will see the shipping time for each shipping method.
Do package forwarding services offer Transport Insurance options?
Yes, we can insure each package up to 500,00 EUR. For higher insurance please check here:
https://mygermany.com/transport-insurance/
What should I do if my package is Damaged or Lost during the forwarding process?
We can insure every parcel up to 500,00 EUR for free. Please check here Transport Insurance >>
In case you need to file a claim, we will support you! Check here How to file a claim >>
Can I Change the Shipping Address after the package is forwarded?
It depends on the carrier you selected:
DHL Express – yes it is normally possible, normally for free.
FedEx Economy & Express – yes it is normally possible, normally for free.
DHL Weltpaket – no it is not possible.
UPS Standard & Express – no it is not possible.
DPD Standard & Express – no it is not possible.
Can I Track my package during the forwarding process?
Yes, each package is traceable. Please check here >>
Are there any Size or Weight Restrictions for packages being forwarded from Germany?
No, we can send small and very large bulky items, wherefore we provide pickup, packaging, shipping and customs clearance services.
Check here for more details >>
Special Shipment Treatment >>
Bulky Shipment Samples >>
What Customer Support options or Communication Channels do you offer?
We do answer emails within 24h during business hours Monday to Friday 08:00 to 15:00 CET.
We also provide a Live-Chat with human employees Monday to Friday 08:00 to 15:00 CET, and if our employees are not available our Bot will help 🙂
Our FAQs also provide lots of useful information.
Can I Return items to German online stores if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?
We support you with returns!
Within Germany
From myGermany to original seller: In cases of wrong or damaged products, or products which are not compliant with your order, products can be returned at no charge. You may even return goods without stating reasons against a processing fee. Please mind, that some Concierge Orders may be treated differently.
From customer to Germany
From customer destination to myGermany / original seller: Customers may also return shipments from their country to myGermany or to the original seller. The costs are to be taken by the customer, but we will fully support the process and communication with seller.
Are there any Restrictions on what I can order from Germany?
myGermany can send almost everything which is leagal. We are also certified for shipping Dangerus Goods such as Lithium, Oil or Gad Pressure Cans. Please check here restriced items >>
