I'll work on the presumption you don't have a container sized order coming in...
One caveat before we go any further, if the item you are importing is a CD player or pair of loudspeakers, you've just made the entire process far more complex, as you will need to do a lot more in terms of certifications of a laser apparatus and all manner of stuff. For amplifiers, turntables, etc. the process is VERY easy and straightforward.
To be perfectly honest, your best bet is to ship via FedEX or DHL (I prefer FedEX). It's not exactly cheap, but not as much as many people would predict. They do everything, including serving as your Customs Broker. I find them extremely efficient, and in truth, can get your order here in well under a week. In fact, I import a lot of audio equipment, as I am the North American distributor, and most of my orders come in through FedEX. I once got a 70 lb CD player here from China in two days (not really sure how...)
You can also ship via air freight, which is a bit cheaper if you have a large order coming in (again, I'm working on the presumption that you do not), but can quickly become far more expensive if you begin incurring storage fees at the airport, special inspections, etc., which is the reason I find it easier just to go with FedEX.
Good luck!
Joe
One caveat before we go any further, if the item you are importing is a CD player or pair of loudspeakers, you've just made the entire process far more complex, as you will need to do a lot more in terms of certifications of a laser apparatus and all manner of stuff. For amplifiers, turntables, etc. the process is VERY easy and straightforward.
To be perfectly honest, your best bet is to ship via FedEX or DHL (I prefer FedEX). It's not exactly cheap, but not as much as many people would predict. They do everything, including serving as your Customs Broker. I find them extremely efficient, and in truth, can get your order here in well under a week. In fact, I import a lot of audio equipment, as I am the North American distributor, and most of my orders come in through FedEX. I once got a 70 lb CD player here from China in two days (not really sure how...)
You can also ship via air freight, which is a bit cheaper if you have a large order coming in (again, I'm working on the presumption that you do not), but can quickly become far more expensive if you begin incurring storage fees at the airport, special inspections, etc., which is the reason I find it easier just to go with FedEX.
Good luck!
Joe