How do we send BIG packages to the States??

Hello Folks.  My wife and I are heading back to the States at the end of February and we want to send a few big boxes filled with all sorts of stuff back earlier.  Potentially a few bikes too.  Boxing the bikes and other stuff isn't a problem but we are ignorent to how we can send the stuff short of going to our local post office.  We've heard romours that there is some kind of system set up down by the docks where super cheap shipping is offered.  "Slow boat" or something like that...  If anyone has more information regarding cheap shipping on big items, lay it down please.  komawo.   

Re: How do we send BIG packages to the States??

You'll have to contact an international moving company.  The local phone book should be full of ads that offer services.  But I can almost guarantee that buying the items new once in the U.S. would be cheaper.  I've gone back and forth several times and just ended up buying new furniture and appliances each time.  So if the items aren't of sentimental value then I'd recommend just selling them or getting rid of them.

Re: How do we send BIG packages to the States??

i read on another forum that those shipping containers cost almost $10,000 US so unless you plan on sending home a bunch of furniture or can find someone to split the space with it is probably not worth it. just mailing stuff home by boat at your local post office would probably be the cheapest thing to do.

Re: How do we send BIG packages to the States??

My friend just paid 2 million won for two cubic meters of space in a container on a ship.  The company went to his place, packed everything up neatly and efficiently, moved it all out, and loaded it.  They'll deliver it right to his door back in his home country.  Trouble is, it could take as long as 2 months (possibly even longer) for it to be delivered.

He tried sending BIG packages via the post, and they advised him not to (though I can't elaborate on that).

I'm with the majority here.  Unless you've landed a job at some prestigious international school which pays all of your shipping costs as a benefit, I wouldn't bother.

Re: How do we send BIG packages to the States??

How big are you talking?

Unless you are talking about sofas and fridges then the post office will be able to handle just about anything and put it on the slow boat for you.

Re: How do we send BIG packages to the States??

Thank you for all of the feedback people.  

Well lets see, the size of my package is...  let me rephrase that.  Im considering sending two bikes packaged in their original boxes.   Each, about 1'X4'X3'ft.  Sounds like the best option is to put em' up for sale.  I figured it may come to that so I'm not too distressed.  Thanks again!

k