Deadlines for sending a package overseas vary according to the country and the international delivery service being used. At some point, between one and three weeks from “the event date,” sending a package and expecting it to arrive on time becomes impossible. After that point, there are still other gift-giving options.
A Gift of Cash Spends in Any Language
Before picking up the phone and wiring money spontaneously, check out the fees. Some cash gift-givers have complained that money-shipping rates are exorbitant. Also, ask if the money is delivered in the local currency or that of the country from which it was sent. Delivery fees compounded by money-changing costs may eat up 20-30 percent of the total value.
Safety may be an issue in sending money via an international service such as Western Union or MoneyGram. According to the American Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website, “The FTC found that between 2004 and 2008, agents of one wire transfer company helped fraudulent telemarketers and other con artists trick U.S. consumers into wiring more than $84 million. . .”
Finding a way to send money – not actual cash but perhaps depositing a check into your friend's home bank account – may be preferred by the expat and an easy alternative for the gift giver. ATM machines worldwide make the gift available to the recipient quickly and easily.
For Fast, Last-Minute Gifts, Send Flowers Via International Delivery
Another quick and easy gift-giving option is to send flowers. Many companies offer same-day delivery for flowers ordered in the morning or early afternoon of the destination country. An arrangement of colorful cut blooms or a green plant is a great way to let an expat know they are missed. Floral shopping online is fun. The Internet is a virtual field of online flowers with only the fragrance missing.
Remember that specific flowers and even flower colors have meanings to many people, so specify the particular type – like red roses or stargazer lilies – or the color of the flowers you want sent. The online Flower Dictionary provides more information about the meanings of flowers and flower colors. If flowers don't seem quite right, some international florists also have a candy or fresh fruit option.
Floral companies that quote one price regardless of the destination country are likely to be more expensive than those which modify prices based on local costs. Look for websites that ask which country before giving prices. Teleflora has a less-advertised line of flowers with prices under $30 US which is sometimes offered at $10 off and they have coupon codes online. Flora2000 also specializes in international delivery of flowers. They have a discounted special each month. Look online for other sales and promotions.
Make a Donation in the Expat's Name and E-mail the Particulars
Still at a loss for the right gift? Select a worthy cause and make an online donation, giving the gift recipient's name as the donor. Many charitable organizations publish an online Christmas wish list and the price tag associated with each item. E-mail pictures of the organization and people that the gift will help and write a message explaining why you chose this type of gift. Many expats prefer to travel lightly and place a higher value on people than things, so this kind of gift may be perfect.
"It's the thought that counts," or "Out of sight, out of mind." Which message do the expats in your life receive? Even the most independent expats appreciate knowing that they haven't been forgotten by family and friends back home.
When time permits, see The Best Gift Ideas for Expats Living Abroad or Expat Advice for Gifts to Send Abroad Anytime for gift suggestions. To be sure your gift arrives in good condition, follow the tips in International Delivery – Sending Gifts to Expats
Mistie Shaw - Writing for nearly half a century, Shaw's interests and education meander from music to the military, and from faith to fun.
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