Dadnatron
Veteran Member
Don't be too concerned about 'Ports'. You don't have to be near a coast to get your purchase. In fact, I had mine sent to Cincinnati and could have had it in Louisville, had I recognized it. Mine was offloaded in New Jersey and trucked overland to the 'port' in Cincinnati, which was just a warehouse out in the suburbs.
Ports of Entry USA
There are ports all over the place, and it is likely that there is one close or at least 'closer' to you than you think. It will obviously cost more to haul it to Colorado (which has 4 POEs) but it isn't as crazy as you'd think.
If I do it again, I will set up with a US based importer who does this sort of thing and let them deal with everything. Make your purchase from the company FOB, or 'Free on Board' which basically means they are responsible for everything up to and including getting it loaded on the ship. Then, you, or your company, is responsible for getting it to you. If you do it BEFORE you actually are in the process of the shipping, it shouldn't be too difficult. Just be prepared for a hiccup and don't fret. There are many reputable importers who know what is required and have the connections to insure you get your shipment. And STILL, it is likely to be less expensive.
But, remember, Alibaba begins counting down the 14day Escrow period from when it hits the port/warehouse NOT from whenever you get your act together and go get it. IF it sits in the warehouse for 15days before you see that they sent you problem... well.... then its YOUR problem. Nothing that cannot be addressed with some planning and a little flexibility. But just recognize this is the case.
Ports of Entry USA
There are ports all over the place, and it is likely that there is one close or at least 'closer' to you than you think. It will obviously cost more to haul it to Colorado (which has 4 POEs) but it isn't as crazy as you'd think.
If I do it again, I will set up with a US based importer who does this sort of thing and let them deal with everything. Make your purchase from the company FOB, or 'Free on Board' which basically means they are responsible for everything up to and including getting it loaded on the ship. Then, you, or your company, is responsible for getting it to you. If you do it BEFORE you actually are in the process of the shipping, it shouldn't be too difficult. Just be prepared for a hiccup and don't fret. There are many reputable importers who know what is required and have the connections to insure you get your shipment. And STILL, it is likely to be less expensive.
But, remember, Alibaba begins counting down the 14day Escrow period from when it hits the port/warehouse NOT from whenever you get your act together and go get it. IF it sits in the warehouse for 15days before you see that they sent you problem... well.... then its YOUR problem. Nothing that cannot be addressed with some planning and a little flexibility. But just recognize this is the case.