ACBuy provides multiple reliable international shipping routes to deliver your purchases worldwide. Choosing the right carrier can impact cost, delivery speed, and customs experience. This detailed comparison of our main options—EMS, DHL Express, and EU Direct Line—will help you select the best method for your needs.
Overview at a Glance
- EMS (Express Mail Service):
- DHL Express:
- EU Direct Line:
- DHL Express:
Price & Cost Structure
Prices are weight-based and vary by destination. Below is a general comparison for a standard 5kg parcel.
| Option | Relative Price | Key Cost Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EMS | $$ (Mid-Range) | Often the most balanced option. No remote area surcharges. Insurance optional. |
| DHL Express | $$$ (Premium) | Higher base rate, but includes full tracking and premium handling. Fuel surcharges may apply. |
| EU Direct Line | $ (Most Economical to EU) | Special consolidated rate for the European Union. Excellent value for EU members. |
Customs Clearance Performance
EMS
Clears customs as part of the national postal system. Can be slower in some countries due to higher volume. Declaration is handled by ACBuy. Requires recipient to provide any required documentation locally if contacted.
DHL Express
Excellent, proactive clearance. DHL's own brokerage team often handles paperwork and contacts the recipient directly for info, speeding up the process. Best for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.
EU Direct Line
Optimized for EU customs.
Average Delivery Speed
Speed varies by destination country and customs hold times. Estimates below are from shipment date.
| Option | Europe | North America | Asia/Pacific |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMS | 10 - 18 days | 8 - 15 days | 7 - 12 days |
| DHL Express | 3 - 6 days | 2 - 4 days | 2 - 5 days |
| EU Direct Line | 12 - 20 days | N/A | N/A |
Note: EU Direct Line is exclusively for European Union destinations.
How to Choose the Best Option
- Choose EMS if:
- Choose DHL Express if:
- Choose EU Direct Line if:European Union, and your primary goals are lowest cost and streamlined EU customs processing.
- Choose DHL Express if:
Log in to your ACBuy account for real-time quotes based on your cart's weight and your specific delivery address. Our team is also available for consultation if you have special shipping requirements.