Ordering From Amazon to Medellin: Here's How

TLDR? You can still order from Amazon while living in Medellin!

Being from the United States, Amazon is the best thing that has happened since sliced bread. But being a tourist living in Medellin, Colombia, ordering from Amazon isn’t as easy as I was hoping.

That doesn’t mean there isn’t a way; it just takes a little more effort. So if you’re a local or a foreigner looking to do some Amazon shopping in Medellin, Colombia, here is a step-by-step guide.

In addition, I’ll provide some backup options for those of you who would rather not go through the hassle, so let’s get started!

How to Order From Amazon in Medellin, Colombia

Originally, an online place to buy books, today Amazon has almost anything under the sun available for purchase…and they will ship it to you!

It can be hard to find what you need at the local stores as a tourist. Also, it may be overpriced if you do find it because it’s been imported.

While there are several amazing malls and stores in Medellin, you have to put in a lot of leg work and detective work to find what you’re looking for.

But if you use Amazon, you can find anything you want with just a few clicks of the mouse, and they will deliver it to your door!

The problem with being in another country is the risk of not getting your items. So without further ado, here is a step-by-step guide to ordering from Amazon for digital nomads living in Medellín, Colombia.

Step 1. Filter to Amazon International Shopping

The first thing you will want to do is go to Amazon International Shopping and filter to Colombia.

If you don’t, then you spend a lot of time looking at items that can’t be shipped to Colombia.

This will save you time and frustration in the long run.

Step 2. Use 1-Click Address

Now the next step is to use the 1-Click Address in your account settings to set your address in Colombia.

If you don’t, some items you are searching for will show up but aren’t available to be shipped to Colombia.

The reason being is that certain items aren’t allowed to be shipped to Colombia by Amazon.

Step 3. Start Shopping

Now that your settings are set up, you can start shopping! Keep in mind that there are certain restrictions for some electronics and other items, but you can find almost anything else.

This is a good option if Amazon is the only place you can find what you’re looking for or if the price is significantly lower.

A couple of other things to take note of is that shipping times will vary, and sometimes items get held up in customs.

So if you are ordering something for a specific occasion, make sure to give yourself enough time!

Backup Options for Shipping Packages to Medellin

If you can only find your item in the U.S. or on Amazon, there is another way that you can get it shipped to Medellin. Let’s take a look at a couple of other options.

Use a Forwarding Shipping Service

One option is to use a parcel forwarding service. This involves signing up for a service that will provide you with a U.S. address.

Then, when you go to order on Amazon, you will use the U.S. address provided by the parcel forwarding service.

The service will then ship the items to you in Colombia. This is a great option for those who want more control over their shipments and don’t mind paying a little extra for the service.

However, this doesn’t mean your item won’t get held up in customs.

It’s still a risk when ordering internationally, and you will want to take that into consideration when using this method. There is a full list of restricted items that you can refer to.

This is will give you a better idea of what you can and cannot ship to Colombia.

Use Rappi Errand Service

Another option you have is to use Rappi. Rappi is an errand service that will pick up and deliver items for you in Colombia.

You will need to download the app and sign up for an account to do this. Then, you can start placing orders.

It works by choosing what items you want, and Rappi will go and pick them up for you.

They’ll then deliver the items to you. This is a great option if you need your items quickly or don’t want to deal with the hassle of shipping them yourself.

The downfall of this method is hoping that Rappi is able to find everything you’re looking for and that they can get it to you in a timely manner.

Plus, if you need something specific, then it may not be available in Medellin. Thus, leaving to go back to option one, Amazon International Shipping.

Mercado Libre of Colombia

Another option is using Mercado Libre. Mercado Libre is an online marketplace that’s sort of like a cross between Amazon and Craigslist.

It’s a great option for finding items that you may not be able to find on Amazon or in Medellin.

To use Mercado Libre, you will need to create an account and start browsing the site.

You can find almost anything on Mercado Libre. Plus, you don’t need to worry about anything getting hung up in customs because it is all being shipped within Colombia.

You can also filter your search to find items that offer free shipping. This can be a great way to save money if you are on a budget.

The only downside to Mercado Libre is that it can be hit or miss with finding what you’re looking for.

Sometimes, the selection isn’t as great as Amazon. However, it’s still worth checking out when searching for items to buy in Medellin.

HomeCenter of Colombia

If you’re looking for a brick-and-mortar option, you can check out HomeCenter. HomeCenter is a chain of stores that sell home improvement items, appliances, and more.

The problem is that not everything is available for shipping to Medellin. So, you’ll need to check and see if the items you want are available for shipping before placing your order.

If they are available, then you can go ahead and place your order online. If not, it’ll require an in-store pickup.

This takes away from the point of being able to shop online, but it’s still an option if you are looking for specific items.

Plus, you know it’s in stock if you want to look at it before buying it.

Use a Friend or Family Member

If you have a friend or family member living in the States, you can always ask them to ship your items to you.

This is probably the cheapest and most convenient option since you don’t have to worry about any fees associated with shipping.

The only thing you need to be aware of is that your friend or family member may not want to ship your items for you all the time.

That’s why it’s important to be considerate and only ask them when you really need something.

If you’re going to have a family member send something, use FedEx or UPS. Be sure to insure the items are being shipped as well.

This will ensure that you are covered if anything happens to the items while in transit.

Take the Opportunity to Explore Medellin

When you are looking for things to do in Medellin, you may want to consider taking the opportunity to explore the city.

There is a lot to see and do in Medellin. Plus, it’s a great way to get to know the city better.

There are several malls and markets to explore. You can also take a walk or bike ride through the city.

This is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time. Who knows, you might also find some great deals while you are out and about.

Get What You Need in Medellin

As you can see, there are a few options available to you when it comes to shopping for items in Medellin.

Each option has its own set of pros and cons that you will need to weigh before making your decision.

However, all of the options are viable and will get you the items you need.

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