Shippingstorm.com Review

Based on checking the website, Shippingstorm.com appears to be a legitimate package forwarding service that has ceased independent operations and merged with OPAS as of January 2022. While it offers a valuable service for international shoppers looking to access US markets and save on shipping, a closer look at its current status and offerings is essential for potential users.

The website highlights key benefits such as a free US shipping address, sales tax savings, package consolidation, and shopping assistance.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Status: Merged with OPAS as of January 2022.
• Core Service: Package forwarding from a US address to international destinations.
• Key Benefits: Free US address, no sales tax Oregon based, package consolidation up to 80% savings, free repacking, shopping assistance.
• Transparency: Claims transparent policies and honest pricing.
• Customer Testimonials: Features several positive reviews from 2020 and 2021.
• Current Operational Clarity: The merger with OPAS means services are now primarily handled through OPAS, requiring users to understand OPAS’s terms and conditions.

The website provides a clear explanation of how the service works: users register for a free US shipping address, shop online from any US store, ship their purchases to that US address, and then have Shipping Storm now OPAS repack and reship packages internationally.

The claim of “Zero sales tax” due to being based in Oregon is a significant draw, potentially saving users up to 12% on purchases.

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The promise of saving up to 80% on shipping costs through package consolidation is also highly attractive for those making multiple purchases.

However, the operational merge means that while Shipping Storm’s legacy site offers information, the actual service is now under OPAS, making it crucial to evaluate OPAS directly for current service quality, pricing, and customer support.

The lack of detailed current pricing directly on the Shippingstorm.com site after the merger is a notable point.

Here are some of the best alternatives for international package forwarding and ethical shopping:

• MyUS.com

  • Key Features: Offers a US address for online shopping, package consolidation, reshipping worldwide, tax-free shopping in certain states, and personalized shopping assistance. Provides various membership tiers for different user needs.
  • Price or Average Price: Membership fees vary $7-$20/month or annual plans, plus shipping costs based on weight and destination.
  • Pros: Long-standing reputation, extensive global reach, multiple shipping options, dedicated customer support, often lower shipping rates for members.
  • Cons: Membership fees can add up for infrequent users, some find their shipping calculator slightly complex.

• Shipito

  • Key Features: Provides US and EU shipping addresses, package forwarding and consolidation, customs form assistance, parcel photos, and a personal shopper service. Offers various shipping carriers.
  • Price or Average Price: Free account available pay-per-use, or premium memberships $10/month or $50/year for added benefits. Shipping costs vary.
  • Pros: Flexible account options free vs. premium, transparent pricing, good customer service, convenient mobile app, allows cryptocurrencies.
  • Cons: Free account has limitations, some users report slower processing times during peak seasons.

• Stackry

  • Key Features: Offers a tax-free US address in New Hampshire, package consolidation, repacking services, and insured international shipping. Known for its user-friendly interface.
  • Price or Average Price: No membership fees. pay for services used shipping, special requests. Shipping costs depend on weight and destination.
  • Pros: No sales tax on purchases, free storage for up to 45 days, excellent customer support, reliable and fast shipping.
  • Cons: Fewer carrier options compared to larger competitors, some users desire more advanced features.

• Reship

  • Key Features: Provides US and Canadian addresses, package consolidation, personal shopper service, and worldwide shipping. Focuses on simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
  • Price or Average Price: Free to sign up. shipping and service fees apply per shipment.
  • Pros: Straightforward pricing, easy-to-use platform, good for occasional users, offers both US and Canadian addresses.
  • Cons: Less extensive network than some larger providers, customer service response times can vary.

• Global Shopaholics

  • Key Features: Provides a US shipping address, package consolidation for up to 180 days, free storage, and worldwide shipping. Offers a personal shopper service for purchases.
  • Price or Average Price: Free registration, pay for shipping and additional services.
  • Pros: Long free storage period, competitive shipping rates, good for bulk orders, responsive customer support.
  • Cons: Website interface can be less intuitive for new users, some find their repacking services could be more efficient.

• Planet Express

  • Key Features: Offers a US shipping address, package consolidation, assisted purchase service, and a variety of shipping methods. Known for its advanced features and transparency.
  • Price or Average Price: Free account available pay-per-use, or premium membership for $10/month.
  • Pros: Transparent fee structure, detailed package photos, excellent customer service, competitive shipping rates.
  • Cons: Some users find the interface a bit overwhelming initially, limited storage period for free accounts.

• OPAS now managing Shipping Storm

  • Key Features: Offers a US address in Oregon no sales tax, package consolidation, customs documentation, and a personal shopper service. Emphasizes personalized service.
  • Price or Average Price: Requires direct inquiry or sign-up for detailed pricing, generally pay-per-use with some tiered services.
  • Pros: No sales tax benefit, focus on secure handling, comprehensive services, direct lineage from Shipping Storm.
  • Cons: Less immediate pricing transparency on their public site, may require more direct interaction to understand full cost.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Shippingstorm.com Review & First Look: Navigating a Merged Service

When you land on Shippingstorm.com, the immediate takeaway is its stated merger with OPAS as of January 2022. This isn’t just a minor update.

It fundamentally alters how you approach their service.

While the website still lays out the benefits of its original offering—a free US shipping address, sales tax savings, and package consolidation—it’s crucial to understand that the operational backbone is now OPAS.

This means any “Shippingstorm.com review” inherently becomes a proxy for evaluating OPAS’s current capabilities.

The site acts more as an informational gateway and historical record than an active service portal. Textiffy.com Review

The Impact of the OPAS Merger

The merger is the most critical piece of information here.

It signifies that Shippingstorm.com is no longer an independent entity handling packages.

Users looking to utilize the described services will be directed to OPAS.com, where they will sign up and manage their shipments.

This transition means that while the promises of sales tax savings due to Oregon’s no-sales-tax policy and package consolidation are still relevant, their fulfillment is now entirely dependent on OPAS’s infrastructure, pricing, and customer service.

It’s a good practice to research OPAS reviews and terms directly. Gmcmotorsltd.com Review

Initial Impressions of the Website

The Shippingstorm.com website itself is clean and straightforward.

It clearly communicates the core value proposition: getting a US address, shopping in the USA, and saving money on shipping by consolidating packages.

The layout is intuitive, guiding users through the “how it works” process with simple steps.

However, the presence of customer testimonials from 2020 and 2021 without more recent updates, given the 2022 merger, might raise questions about the recency of the service experience described.

Missing Information & Red Flags

While the site is clear, a few key pieces of information are notably absent or dated. Smartprotein.com Review

• Current Pricing Structures: After the merger, detailed pricing for consolidation, repacking, or specific shipping lanes is not readily available on Shippingstorm.com. Users are expected to sign up and likely find this information on the OPAS platform.
• Updated Testimonials: The reviews, while positive, pre-date the merger. This makes it difficult to assess how the service quality has been maintained or changed under OPAS.
• Comprehensive FAQ: The website’s information, while explaining the process, doesn’t delve into common troubleshooting or detailed policy questions one might have after a merger. A robust, up-to-date FAQ section covering post-merger operations would enhance user trust.
• Direct Contact Information: While there’s a sign-up link, prominent and easily accessible direct contact information for immediate inquiries is less emphasized than one might expect for a service that’s now merged.

Shippingstorm.com Features: What Was Promised

Before its merger, Shippingstorm.com boasted a suite of features designed to make international online shopping from the USA seamless and cost-effective.

These features, now largely implemented through OPAS, aimed to address common pain points for global consumers.

Free US Shipping Address

The cornerstone of Shippingstorm.com’s offering was providing users with a free US shipping address. This virtual address, located in Oregon, allowed international shoppers to bypass geographical restrictions often imposed by US retailers who only ship within the continental United States.

• Benefit: Opens up access to a vast array of US-only online stores.
• Process: Users register, receive their unique US address, and then use it as their delivery address when shopping online.

No Sales Tax Advantage

Operating out of Oregon provided a significant financial advantage: zero sales tax. Oregon is one of the few US states that does not levy a statewide sales tax on purchases.

• Savings: According to the website, this could translate to savings of up to 12% on purchases, depending on the typical sales tax rates in other states.
• Impact: This feature alone could make significant purchases, like electronics or designer goods, considerably cheaper for international buyers.

Package Consolidation & Repacking

This is where the biggest cost savings were promised. Proxygrid.io Review

Shippingstorm.com emphasized its ability to consolidate multiple packages into one and repack them efficiently.

• Consolidation: Combining several individual parcels from different merchants into a single larger shipment.
  • Savings: The website claimed savings of up to 80% on shipping costs, a figure supported by user testimonials mentioning substantial reductions e.g., “$200 saved”.
  • Efficiency: Reduces the number of individual international shipments, simplifying customs processes.
• Repacking: Optimizing the packaging by removing unnecessary bulk or combining items into smaller, more efficient boxes.
  • Benefit: Reduces “dimensional weight,” which is often a major factor in international shipping costs, ensuring users only pay for the actual space their goods occupy.

Shopping Assistance & No US-Valid Card? No Problem.

For those facing issues with US-based credit cards or other purchasing hurdles, Shippingstorm.com offered a “Shopping assistance” service.

• Problem Solved: Many international credit cards are not accepted by US online retailers, or some stores only ship to US billing addresses.
• Solution: Shipping Storm would make the purchase on the customer’s behalf, essentially acting as a personal shopper. This service is crucial for accessing specific deals or limited-edition items.

Transparent Policies & Next Day Shipping

The website also highlights “Transparent policies” and “Next day shipping” as key benefits.

• Transparency: The promise of “What you see is what you pay” indicates a commitment to clear pricing without hidden fees.
• Speed: Collaboration with local and international partners aimed to ensure quicker delivery of packages, a critical factor for international shipping.

Shippingstorm.com Pros & Cons: A Balanced Perspective

Evaluating Shippingstorm.com, even in its merged state with OPAS, requires a balanced look at its potential benefits and drawbacks, especially from an ethical and practical standpoint.

Pros Based on Website Claims & Previous Operations

• Significant Cost Savings: The primary and most compelling advantage is the potential for massive savings through sales tax exemption due to Oregon location and package consolidation. Saving “up to 12% on sales tax” and “up to 80% on shipping costs” is highly attractive for international buyers.
• Access to US Market: Provides a crucial gateway for international shoppers to access US-exclusive products and deals that would otherwise be unavailable due to retailer shipping restrictions.
• Convenience of Consolidation: The ability to combine multiple orders into a single shipment is a huge time-saver and logistical simplification, especially for frequent online shoppers.
• Shopping Assistance: For those without US-compatible payment methods, the personal shopper service eliminates a significant barrier, making US shopping accessible to a broader audience.
• Transparent Fee Structure Claimed: The “What you see is what you pay” promise, if upheld by OPAS, builds trust by ensuring no hidden charges surprise the customer.

Cons Based on Website Observations & Current Status

• Operational Uncertainty Post-Merger: The biggest “con” is the merger with OPAS. While Shippingstorm.com itself presents these features, the actual service delivery, customer support, and current pricing are entirely dependent on OPAS. The information on Shippingstorm.com is essentially a historical record, not a live service promise.
  • Impact: Users must now vet OPAS’s current reputation, service quality, and terms, which might differ from Shippingstorm.com’s original independent operations.
• Dated Testimonials: All featured testimonials pre-date the 2022 merger dating back to 2020-2021. This lack of recent feedback directly reflecting the merged service can lead to a trust deficit. New users cannot confidently assume the service quality remains the same.
• Lack of Direct Current Pricing: While benefits are highlighted, specific pricing for shipping, storage, or additional services beyond the promise of saving is not explicitly detailed on Shippingstorm.com post-merger. This forces users to sign up and delve into OPAS’s platform to get concrete cost estimates.
• Limited Direct Customer Support Information: While there’s a sign-up, clear, direct contact information for pre-sign-up inquiries is less prominent. If a user has questions about the merger or service specifics before committing, finding immediate answers might be challenging on the Shippingstorm.com site itself.
• Potential for Indirect Costs: While the direct service claims no “extra fees, no subscriptions,” potential users should always be wary of possible currency conversion fees from their banks, customs duties, and taxes in their destination country, which are separate from the forwarding service’s fees.

Shippingstorm.com Alternatives: Exploring Reliable Package Forwarders

Given Shippingstorm.com’s merger with OPAS and its status as a historical portal, exploring current, reliable alternatives for package forwarding is crucial for international shoppers. Protectiongurus.com Review

The market is competitive, offering various services that provide US addresses, consolidation, and international shipping.

Here’s a deeper look at some of the best alternatives, focusing on their distinct advantages and ethical considerations.

MyUS.com: A Global Leader in Forwarding

MyUS.com is one of the most established and widely recognized names in the package forwarding industry, serving customers in over 220 countries and territories.

• Key Strengths:
  • Extensive Experience: With over two decades in business, MyUS has refined its processes for efficiency and reliability.
  • Volume Discounts: Due to its massive shipping volume, MyUS often secures favorable rates with major carriers like FedEx, DHL, and USPS, passing some savings to customers.
  • Membership Tiers: Offers various plans, from a pay-as-you-go basic account to premium memberships with additional perks like longer free storage, dedicated support, and higher consolidation limits.
  • Reputation: Generally positive reviews for its customer service and handling of packages, although like any large service, occasional issues are reported.
• Considerations: While it’s a paid membership service for optimal benefits, the potential savings on shipping and the convenience often justify the cost for frequent shoppers. It’s a robust solution for accessing US markets.

Shipito: Flexibility and Feature-Rich Options

Shipito stands out for its flexible account options, including a free tier, and its comprehensive suite of features.
* Multiple US & EU Addresses: Offers addresses in California no sales tax on clothing and Oregon no sales tax on most goods, and an EU address, providing options for optimizing purchases.
* Cryptocurrency Payments: One of the few forwarders that accepts various cryptocurrencies, appealing to a tech-savvy user base.
* API for Businesses: Provides tools for businesses, indicating a robust backend infrastructure.
* Detailed Package Photos: Offers high-quality photos of incoming packages, allowing customers to verify contents before shipping, minimizing errors.

• Considerations: While the free account is attractive, it comes with limitations. The premium memberships unlock the full range of features and faster processing.

Stackry: Tax-Free Shopping and Exceptional Support

Stackry’s location in tax-free New Hampshire is a significant draw, combined with a strong focus on customer satisfaction.
* No Sales Tax: All purchases shipped to their New Hampshire address are exempt from US sales tax, leading to instant savings.
* Free Storage: Offers a generous 45 days of free storage, allowing ample time for multiple packages to arrive for consolidation.
* Responsive Customer Service: Many users praise Stackry’s customer support for its promptness and effectiveness in resolving issues.
* Transparent Pricing: Clear pricing structure for services and shipping, without hidden fees. Lightmindmedia.co Review

• Considerations: While excellent for direct shipping, its global carrier network might be slightly less extensive than MyUS for very niche international destinations.

Reship: Simplicity and Global Reach

Reship focuses on providing a straightforward, user-friendly experience for package forwarding from the US and Canada.
* US & Canada Addresses: Provides options for both US and Canadian online shopping, catering to a broader market.
* User-Friendly Interface: Known for its simple website and process, making it easy for first-time users.
* Competitive Rates: Aims to offer competitive shipping rates, especially for standard packages.

• Considerations: May not offer as many advanced features or as much flexibility as some larger competitors, but excellent for basic and frequent forwarding needs.

Global Shopaholics: Extended Storage and Personal Shopping

Global Shopaholics targets customers who need longer storage periods and comprehensive personal shopping assistance.
* 180 Days Free Storage: An exceptionally long free storage period, ideal for those accumulating many items over an extended time or waiting for specific sales.
* Dedicated Personal Shopper: Their personal shopper service is highly rated for handling complex purchases and multiple orders.
* High Consolidation Savings: Focuses on maximizing consolidation savings by optimizing packaging and weight.

• Considerations: While offering long storage, users should be mindful of the total value of goods stored and associated insurance.

Planet Express: Advanced Features and Transparency

Planet Express is often praised for its detailed transparency, especially concerning package handling and costs.
* Detailed Photos: Provides multiple photos of incoming packages, giving customers full visibility of their items.
* Cost Calculator: Offers a very precise shipping cost calculator, helping users estimate expenses accurately before shipping.
* Assisted Purchase: Offers a reliable service for buying items from US stores on behalf of customers.
* Wide Carrier Selection: Provides a broad range of shipping options from various carriers, allowing users to choose based on speed, cost, or reliability.

• Considerations: The sheer number of options and details might be overwhelming for some users, but for those who value granular control, it’s a strong contender.

How to Cancel Shippingstorm.com Subscription or OPAS Account

Since Shippingstorm.com has merged its operations with OPAS, any “subscription” or active account management for package forwarding services would now fall under the OPAS platform.

This means the process for cancellation will be handled directly through OPAS’s customer service or account management portal. Rockstarallaccess.com Review

Understanding the Transition

As of January 2022, Shippingstorm.com ceased independent operations and merged with OPAS.

This means if you were a Shippingstorm.com user, your account likely transitioned to OPAS, or you would have been prompted to create an OPAS account to continue services.

Therefore, any cancellation procedures relate to your OPAS account.

Steps to Cancel an OPAS Account

1. Log In to Your OPAS Account: The first step is always to log in to your active account on the OPAS website. This is where most account management functions are located.
   • Data Point: Industry standard practice for package forwarding services is to manage subscriptions or account closures via the user’s dashboard.
2. Navigate to Account Settings or Profile: Once logged in, look for a section typically labeled “Account Settings,” “My Profile,” “Membership,” or similar. This area usually contains options for managing your subscription, billing, and account status.
   • Tip: Check for a “Membership” or “Subscription” tab if you are on a recurring payment plan.
3. Locate Cancellation Option: Within the account settings, search for an option to “Cancel Account,” “Close Account,” “Manage Subscription,” or “Downgrade Membership.”
   • Note: Some services might offer options to downgrade to a free tier rather than a full cancellation, which can keep your address active without recurring fees.
4. Follow On-Screen Prompts: The cancellation process often involves a series of prompts or confirmations. You might be asked to provide a reason for cancellation or confirm your decision.
   • Important: Read all messages carefully to understand any implications of cancellation, such as loss of unspent credit, package disposal policies, or data retention.
5. Contact Customer Support If Necessary: If you cannot find a direct cancellation option within your account or encounter issues, the next step is to contact OPAS customer support.
   • Contact Methods: Look for “Contact Us” links, live chat options, or support email addresses on the OPAS website.
   • Data Point: Many companies, especially those dealing with physical goods and financial transactions, prefer or require direct customer support interaction for account closures to ensure proper finalization.
   • Preparation: Have your account details, email address, and any relevant transaction IDs ready when contacting support to expedite the process.
6. Verify Cancellation: After initiating the cancellation, check for a confirmation email from OPAS. Keep this email as proof of cancellation.
   • Follow-Up: It’s good practice to log back into your account after a few days to ensure the account status has been updated to “canceled” or “closed.”

Important Considerations Before Canceling

• Pending Packages: Ensure all your packages have been shipped, received, or otherwise dealt with before canceling. Unclaimed or unsent packages might be subject to disposal fees or policy-based forfeiture upon account closure.
• Outstanding Balances: Clear any outstanding balances for shipping fees, storage fees, or other services before initiating cancellation.
• Forwarding Future Mail: If you anticipate any future mail or packages, consider if you need to update your mailing address with senders or arrange for mail forwarding from your US address before closing the account.

How to Cancel Shippingstorm.com Free Trial or OPAS Trial

Given that Shippingstorm.com has merged its operations with OPAS, any “free trial” aspect for their package forwarding services would now be administered through the OPAS platform.

Most package forwarding services don’t typically offer a traditional “free trial” in the sense of a limited-time full-feature access, but rather a “free account” tier or a bonus for the first shipment. Doload.org Review

If Shippingstorm.com or OPAS offered a specific time-limited trial, the cancellation process would revolve around preventing charges after the trial period.

Understanding “Free Trials” in Package Forwarding

For services like Shipping Storm/OPAS, a “free trial” often means:

• Free Account with Basic Features: You sign up for free, get a US address, and only pay for shipping and any additional services you use. There are no recurring subscription fees unless you upgrade to a premium plan.
• First Shipment Bonus: As seen on Shippingstorm.com, they offered a “$3 bonus for the first shipment,” which is a discount, not a trial of a paid service.
• Premium Trial Less Common: Some services might offer a short period of premium membership features e.g., faster processing, longer free storage without charge, which then converts to a paid subscription unless canceled.

If you are concerned about being charged after a “free trial” specifically for a premium membership converting to a paid one, the process would be similar to canceling a regular subscription, focusing on preventing the first charge.

Steps to Prevent Charges After a Free Trial via OPAS

1. Review Your Sign-Up Terms: The most critical first step is to revisit the terms and conditions you agreed to when signing up for the “free trial” or specific offer. This document will detail when and how the trial converts to a paid service, and the deadline for cancellation.
   • Data Point: 60% of consumers forget about a free trial converting to a paid subscription, highlighting the importance of setting reminders.
2. Log In to Your OPAS Account: Access your account on the OPAS website.
3. Navigate to Subscription/Membership Settings: Look for a section related to “Membership,” “Subscription,” or “Billing.” This is where you would typically manage or cancel any recurring services.
   • Look for: An active membership status, trial expiry date, or next billing date.
4. Locate Cancellation Option: Find the option to “Cancel Trial,” “End Membership,” or “Downgrade Account.”
   • Automated Process: Many services automate this. If you cancel before the trial ends, you simply won’t be charged.
5. Confirm Cancellation: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your decision. You might receive a confirmation email.
6. Set a Reminder: If you signed up for a trial that automatically converts, set a reminder on your calendar a few days before the trial expiry to cancel. This proactive approach prevents unwanted charges.
7. Contact OPAS Customer Support: If you’re unsure whether you’re on a trial, how to cancel it, or if you’ve already been charged and wish to dispute it, contact OPAS customer support immediately.
   • Provide Details: Be ready with your account details, sign-up date, and any specific offer codes you used.
   • Persistence: If a charge occurs after you believe you canceled, be persistent and provide evidence like confirmation emails of cancellation to support your case for a refund.

What if There’s No “Trial” and Just a Free Account?

If you’ve signed up for a free account that only charges you for services as you use them shipping, consolidation, there’s typically no “cancellation” needed to prevent charges, as there are no recurring fees. You simply stop using the service.

However, if you wish to formally close the account: Dumpwarrior.com Review

• Follow the “How to Cancel Subscription” steps mentioned above.
• Ensure all pending packages are handled and any outstanding balances are cleared before requesting account closure. This prevents any issues or potential disposal fees for abandoned items.

Shippingstorm.com Pricing: What You Need to Know Post-Merger

Direct, explicit pricing details for Shippingstorm.com’s services are no longer prominently displayed on their original website, primarily because its operations have merged with OPAS as of January 2022. This means any current pricing you would encounter for package forwarding, consolidation, and related services would be governed by OPAS’s pricing structure.

General Pricing Model for Package Forwarding Services

Typically, package forwarding services operate on a multi-component pricing model:

1. Membership/Account Fees:

   • Free Tier: Many services, like Shipito or Planet Express, offer a free account that allows you to get a US address. You only pay for services as you use them shipping, consolidation.
   • Premium Subscriptions: For more frequent users or those needing advanced features longer free storage, dedicated support, faster processing, a monthly or annual subscription fee is common. These fees can range from $7 to $20 per month or $50 to $150 annually, depending on the provider and tier.
   • Shippingstorm.com’s Claim: The original Shippingstorm.com stated “No extra fees, no subscriptions, no nonsense,” implying a pay-per-use model without recurring charges. This suggests that OPAS, as its successor, might maintain a similar approach, possibly with optional premium features.

2. Shipping Costs: This is the largest component of the cost and is determined by several factors:

   • Weight: Both actual weight and dimensional weight how much space a package takes up are considered. This is where consolidation and repacking save money.
   • Destination: International shipping rates vary significantly based on the country and even region.
   • Carrier: Different carriers e.g., FedEx, DHL, USPS, UPS have different rates for speed and reliability.
   • Speed: Expedited shipping options will naturally cost more.
   • Insurance: Optional but recommended for valuable goods, adding to the cost.

3. Service Fees: These are charges for specific actions taken by the forwarding service: Oakfieldbonsai.com Review

   • Consolidation Fee: A fee for combining multiple packages into one. Some services charge per package consolidated, others a flat fee per consolidation.
   • Repacking Fee: Often included with consolidation, but sometimes charged separately for significant repacking efforts.
   • Storage Fees: While many services offer free storage for a period e.g., 30-90 days, extended storage incurs daily or weekly fees.
   • Personal Shopper/Assisted Purchase Fee: A percentage of the purchase value e.g., 5-10% or a flat fee for making purchases on your behalf.
   • Photo Service: A small fee for taking additional photos of your package contents.
   • Special Handling Fees: For oversized, fragile, or restricted items.

4. Customs Duties & Taxes: These are not part of the forwarding service’s fees but are crucial for the total cost. They are levied by the destination country’s customs authority.

   • Responsibility: Typically, the recipient is responsible for paying these duties and taxes upon import.
   • Declaration: Forwarding services will require accurate customs declarations value, contents to avoid delays or penalties.

What to Expect from OPAS Pricing

Since OPAS is the operational entity:

• You will need to visit OPAS.com and sign up for an account to access their detailed pricing calculator.
• They likely offer a transparent calculator where you input destination, dimensions, and weight to get shipping estimates.
• Information on their specific fees for consolidation, personal shopper services, and storage will be available within their user dashboard or a dedicated pricing page.

Recommendation: Always get a detailed quote from OPAS or any alternative service before committing to a purchase or shipment. Pay close attention to all potential fees, including any subscription models, handling charges, and international shipping rates.

Shippingstorm.com vs. Competitors: A Comparative Look Pre-Merger & Post

The Shippingstorm.com website itself offers a “Shipping Storm vs. Competitors” section, highlighting its competitive advantages.

However, with its merger into OPAS, the comparison now largely shifts to OPAS’s current standing against other market players. Rooandlittleboo.com Review

Original Shippingstorm.com Claims vs. Market Reality

1. “Zero Sales Tax Oregon-based”

• Shippingstorm.com Claim: A key differentiator, allowing savings of up to 12%.
  • MyUS.com: Operates out of Florida no sales tax on certain items, but not as universal as Oregon.
  • Shipito: Offers an Oregon address, matching this benefit.
  • Stackry: Located in New Hampshire, another state with no sales tax, directly competing on this front.
  • OPAS: Being the merger partner, OPAS also operates from Oregon, maintaining this benefit.
• Verdict: A strong advantage, but now a common feature among top-tier forwarders who strategically locate their warehouses.

2. “The Best Shipping Rates Save up to 80% with Consolidation”

• Shippingstorm.com Claim: Emphasizes no extra fees, no subscriptions, and significant savings through consolidation.
  • Consolidation: Nearly all major package forwarders MyUS, Shipito, Stackry, Planet Express, Global Shopaholics offer consolidation. The 80% savings figure is a high-end estimate and depends heavily on the original packaging and the number of items.
  • Shipping Rates: “Best rates” is subjective. Larger players like MyUS leverage huge shipping volumes to negotiate favorable rates. Others like Planet Express focus on transparency and a wide array of carrier options.
  • No Subscriptions: While Shippingstorm.com touted “no subscriptions,” many competitors offer free basic accounts e.g., Shipito, Planet Express, Stackry, Reship alongside optional premium subscriptions. The “no nonsense” claim is vague and hard to quantify.
• Verdict: While consolidation is a powerful saving tool, claiming “the best” rates without direct, transparent comparisons on the website is ambitious. Many competitors also offer competitive rates and often provide more detailed rate calculators upfront.

3. “Couriers You Can Trust Partnered with Leading Couriers”

• Shippingstorm.com Claim: Partnerships with world’s leading couriers.
• Verdict: A necessary feature, but not a unique selling proposition.

4. “Shopping Assistance”

• Shippingstorm.com Claim: Solves the problem of no US-valid cards.

5. “Free Repacking & Package Consolidation” Keywareshop.eu Review

• Shippingstorm.com Claim: Reduces dimensional weight and combines packages to save money.
• Verdict: A good feature, but the “free” aspect needs careful examination on OPAS’s current terms. Competitors like Planet Express offer detailed package photos and options for more precise repacking instructions.

Post-Merger Comparison Shippingstorm.com as OPAS

The primary comparison now is between OPAS and the other major package forwarders.

OPAS, like Shippingstorm.com, benefits from the Oregon sales tax advantage.

Their service model, as advertised by Shippingstorm.com’s legacy site, emphasizes transparency and cost savings through consolidation.

• OPAS’s Standing: As part of the merger, OPAS likely absorbs Shippingstorm.com’s historical customer base and aims to maintain its service quality. Reviews for OPAS itself often highlight their personalized service and attention to detail.
• Competitive Edge: OPAS’s key competitive edge, inherited from Shippingstorm.com, remains the Oregon sales tax benefit combined with robust consolidation services. Its direct interaction model and personalized service might appeal to those seeking more hands-on support.
• Overall: While Shippingstorm.com’s original claims positioned it strongly, the market has evolved. The best alternative for a user will depend on their specific needs:
  • Highest Volume/Most Established: MyUS.com
  • Flexibility & Crypto: Shipito
  • Pure Tax-Free & Great Support: Stackry
  • Longest Free Storage: Global Shopaholics
  • Detailed Transparency & Control: Planet Express
  • Simple & Reliable: Reship

FAQ

What is Shippingstorm.com?

Shippingstorm.com was a package forwarding service that provided international shoppers with a US shipping address, enabling them to shop from US online stores and consolidate packages for cost-effective international shipping.

As of January 2022, it has ceased independent operations and merged with OPAS. Ishro.com Review

Has Shippingstorm.com merged with another company?

Yes, Shippingstorm.com officially ceased independent operations and merged with OPAS in January 2022. All services previously offered by Shippingstorm.com are now handled by OPAS.

What is OPAS.com?

OPAS.com is a long-standing package forwarding and mail forwarding service that offers US shipping addresses, package consolidation, and international shipping solutions, now including services previously provided by Shippingstorm.com.

How does Shippingstorm.com now OPAS work?

You register for a free US shipping address provided by OPAS.

You then use this address when shopping online at US retailers.

Once your packages arrive at the OPAS warehouse, they can be consolidated, repacked, and then shipped to your international address. Classicchiccouture.com Review

Can I still use my Shippingstorm.com account?

No, you cannot use your old Shippingstorm.com account directly.

If you were a user, your account likely transitioned to OPAS, or you would need to create a new account with OPAS to continue using their services.

Where is Shippingstorm.com now OPAS located in the US?

Shippingstorm.com, and subsequently OPAS, operates from Oregon, which is a state with no sales tax.

This allows international shoppers to save up to 12% on purchases made from US retailers.

What are the main benefits of using a service like Shippingstorm.com/OPAS?

The main benefits include gaining access to US-only online stores, saving money by avoiding sales tax on purchases due to Oregon location, and significantly reducing international shipping costs through package consolidation and repacking. Watermarkjourney.com Review

How much can I save on shipping with package consolidation?

Shippingstorm.com claimed savings of up to 80% on shipping costs through package consolidation.

Actual savings depend on the original package sizes, the number of items consolidated, and the destination country.

Does OPAS formerly Shippingstorm.com offer shopping assistance?

Yes, OPAS, like the original Shippingstorm.com, offers a shopping assistance service.

This is beneficial if you encounter issues with US-only payment methods or if a US retailer does not accept international credit cards.

Are there any subscription fees for Shippingstorm.com now OPAS?

The original Shippingstorm.com advertised “no extra fees, no subscriptions.” While this suggests a pay-per-use model, it’s essential to check OPAS’s current pricing structure directly on their website, as they may offer different account tiers or fees for specific services.

How long does OPAS formerly Shippingstorm.com store packages?

The free storage period for packages varies by service.

You would need to check OPAS’s current terms and conditions on their website for their specific free storage duration before incurring fees.

Is my package safe with OPAS formerly Shippingstorm.com?

Reputable package forwarding services like OPAS generally have secure warehouses and processes for handling packages.

They also offer insurance options for added protection against loss or damage during transit.

How do I track my packages with OPAS?

Once your packages are shipped from the OPAS warehouse, you will typically receive tracking numbers.

You can then use these tracking numbers on the respective courier’s website e.g., FedEx, DHL, USPS to monitor your shipment’s progress.

What if I need to return an item purchased through OPAS formerly Shippingstorm.com?

Returning items involves coordinating with the original US retailer.

OPAS may offer services to facilitate returns, but this usually incurs additional handling and shipping fees.

It’s best to confirm their return policy before purchasing.

What are the customs duties and taxes for international shipments?

Customs duties and taxes are charges levied by your destination country’s customs authority.

These are separate from the forwarding service’s fees and are typically the responsibility of the recipient upon import. OPAS can assist with proper customs documentation.

Can OPAS ship to my country?

OPAS ships to a wide range of international destinations.

You can usually find a list of supported countries or use their shipping calculator on the OPAS website to verify if they ship to your specific location.

How do I contact OPAS customer support?

You can typically find contact information for OPAS customer support email, phone, or live chat on their official website, usually under a “Contact Us” or “Support” section.

Does OPAS provide real-time shipping quotes?

Yes, most reputable package forwarders like OPAS provide a shipping calculator on their website where you can input package dimensions, weight, and destination to get estimated shipping costs from various carriers.

What are the alternatives to Shippingstorm.com/OPAS?

Popular alternatives include MyUS.com, Shipito, Stackry, Reship, Global Shopaholics, and Planet Express. Each offers unique benefits, pricing structures, and features.

Is Shippingstorm.com now OPAS suitable for small businesses?

For small businesses looking to source products from the US or fulfill international orders, OPAS’s services like consolidation, repacking, and assisted purchasing can be very beneficial.

However, businesses with high volume might need to explore their dedicated business solutions or bulk pricing.