Rep shipping guide: how to ship a NinjaBuy haul cheaply

Shipping is often the biggest cost of a rep haul, bigger than some of the items. The good news: most of it is under your control.

How the price is worked out

International shipping lines charge by weight. Many also charge by volume: a big, light box (a shoe box, a puffer jacket) is billed as if it were heavier. The line you pick decides the price per kilo and how long it takes.

Combine everything

Every parcel has a base cost on top of the weight, so five items in one parcel cost far less than five parcels. Order your items around the same time and wait until all of them are in the warehouse before you ship.

Cut the volume

• Remove shoe boxes. A pair of shoes without the box is much smaller. Keep boxes only if you really want them.
• Vacuum pack jackets and hoodies. Ask the warehouse if they offer it.
• Skip extra packaging you don't need. Ask for the item only.

Mind the weight

Some finds are heavy for what they are: thick hoodies, boots, belts with big buckles, anything with metal or glass. Look at the weight on the warehouse photos and decide if it's worth it.

Pick a line

NinjaBuy lists the lines available for your address, including its Ninja Saver line. Open NinjaBuy's shipping calculator, enter your parcel's weight and compare. Cheaper lines are usually slower. For most hauls the budget lines are fine; pick a faster one only if you need the parcel by a date.

Items that need care

Batteries, liquids, powders and magnets are restricted on many lines. If your haul has earbuds or a power bank, check which lines accept them before you order.