Shopping from US retailers has never been more popular. From exclusive sneakers and beauty products to electronics and homeware, American stores offer better prices and a wider choice than many local retailers. However, if you're new to international shopping, it's easy to make expensive mistakes.

Here are ten of the biggest misconceptions international shoppers have about buying from US websites, and what to do instead.

1. Assuming every US website ships internationally

This is probably the biggest surprise for first-time shoppers. Many major US retailers only deliver within the United States, even if they happily accept international payment cards. However, there’s no need to panic: seeing "Shipping available in the US only" doesn't necessarily mean you can't buy the item; it simply means you'll need a US delivery address before arranging international shipping.

2. Only shopping on Amazon

Amazon is a fantastic marketplace, but it's far from the only place to find great deals. Many brands offer better prices or exclusive products through their own websites or specialist retailers. Popular stores include:

• Walmart
• Sephora
• Barnes and Noble
• Ulta Beauty
• REI
• Zappos
• Macy's
• DSW
• Columbia
• Coach Outlet
• eBay
• Nordstrom Rack

Make sure that you shop around as it can often lead to better prices and more choice.

3. Ignoring US sales events

Many international shoppers buy products whenever they need them, but the really experienced shoppers wait. They know that US retailers run some of the biggest promotions in the world, and planning purchases around these events can lead to significant savings. Major sales include:

• Black Friday
• Cyber Monday
• Prime Day
• Memorial Day sales
• Labor Day sales

4. Forgetting to compare the total cost

A product that's cheaper in the US isn't automatically a better deal, because you need to factor in the additional costs that aren’t an issue when you buy and have delivered direct. Before buying, consider shipping costs, taxes, customs charges, and currency exchange rates. By comparing the total landed cost you’ll get a much clearer picture of how much you're really saving, and our shipping calculator gives you that figure before you commit.

5. Ordering from one store at a time

Every international shipment comes with its own delivery cost. This means that ordering and shipping five products separately works out more expensive than combining them into one shipment. Planning a shopping haul will dramatically reduce your shipping cost per item as you effectively split the shipping cost across multiple purchases, which is exactly what our package consolidation service is built for.

6. Assuming all products are the same worldwide

Some products differ depending on the country they're sold in. For example: electrical products may use different plugs or voltage; clothing sizes can vary; cosmetic ingredients may differ; and product warranties may only apply in the US. So make sure that you check the specifications of products before buying, and check which items cannot be shipped at all.

7. Missing out on US-exclusive products

Some of the best products never reach international markets; things like limited editions, seasonal releases, retailer exclusives, and early product launches are often only available in the United States. When you shop directly from US retailers, you have access to a much wider selection than many local stores can offer, so not only do you get a bargain, but you get something unique, too.

8. Not checking customs rules

Every country has different import regulations, so depending on where you live, you may need to pay VAT or GST, customs duties or import processing fees. Understanding these costs before placing an order helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected charges. If you’re not sure about the fees, and you have a Stackry account, you can ask one of our friendly advisors for advice, or look up how duties and taxes are collected for your country.

9. Thinking parcel forwarding is only for businesses

Many people assume parcel forwarding is designed for importers or companies. But we don’t think that they should get all the perks! In fact, parcel forwarding services are used every day by ordinary shoppers who want access to US retailers that don't ship internationally. Whether you're buying sneakers, skincare, gaming accessories, or gifts, parcel forwarding makes international shopping much easier.

10. Not using Stackry to build smarter shipments

One of the easiest ways to save money is to avoid sending every purchase individually. With Stackry's parcel forwarding service, you receive a personal US shipping address that lets you shop with retailers across the United States, even those that don't offer international delivery. Once your purchases arrive, Stackry gives you several ways to optimize your shipment, including:

• Package consolidation, combining multiple orders into one shipment
• Package repacking, reducing unnecessary packaging and helping lower shipping costs
• Storage, allowing you to wait for additional purchases before shipping
• A choice of international carriers, so you can select the delivery option that best suits your budget and timeframe
• Shipment tracking, providing visibility from dispatch to delivery

Instead of paying international shipping several times, you can build one carefully planned shipment and send everything together for a small additional handling fee.

Shop smarter, not harder

Buying from US retailers can be an excellent way to save money, access exclusive products, and enjoy a much wider choice than many local stores offer. Most of the common mistakes international shoppers make are easy to avoid with a little planning.

Compare prices carefully, shop during major sales, understand your country's customs rules, and think about your purchases as one shopping haul rather than lots of individual orders. A little preparation can make a big difference to both your savings and your overall shopping experience.