Advice on Flying with a Desktop Computer
Aug 11, 2008 | 3:00 pm
#16
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: YVR
Programs: AC E75, SPG Plat, HH peon-by-choice (ex Gold)
Posts: 8,090
Could you sell the computer and buy a new one when you get to your destination?
If data on your hard drive is important, could you remove it and replace it with a blank hard drive before selling the computer, then copy the data to a new computer that you buy at your destination?
If data on your hard drive is important, could you remove it and replace it with a blank hard drive before selling the computer, then copy the data to a new computer that you buy at your destination?
For me, almost sounds like the perfect excuse to buy a new computer.
Aug 12, 2008 | 1:58 am
#18
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Boulder, CO
Programs: UA, AA, WN; HH, MR, IHG
Posts: 7,055
Buying a new iMac in Germany will cost much more than just buying it here and shipping it, primarily because of the VAT but also "just because." The base model of 24" iMac costs $1799 in the U.S., but 1599EUR in Germany, roughly $2384 with today's rates. Even without the VAT, the German price is 1343.70EUR, about $2003. Add to that the price of a U.S. keyboard and the aggravation of reinstalling every application, resetting every preference, etc... I think shipping would be worth its cost.
Aug 12, 2008 | 2:32 am
#19
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Munich, Germany
Programs: Miles&More Blue, SPG Silver
Posts: 3,452
Unlike in the US where it is almost impossible to get a computer with a non-us keyboard it is no problem to buy a PC or Apple with an US-keyboard. In the German apple store you can choose the keyboard you want. Either German or US.
Still I have to agree to cepheid. Apple computers are more expansive in Europe because of the high sales-tax and the Dollar-Euro exchange rate.
That's why I would also recommend shipping your Apple by UPS, DHL or FedEx.
Still I have to agree to cepheid. Apple computers are more expansive in Europe because of the high sales-tax and the Dollar-Euro exchange rate.
That's why I would also recommend shipping your Apple by UPS, DHL or FedEx.
Aug 12, 2008 | 6:14 am
#20
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: DEN
Programs: United, Marriott, Choice, Avis, Hertz
Posts: 271
Not sure what work you've done already in this regard, but perhaps you could find somebody willing to ship it under their corporate rate with your credit card. Some corporate rates save as much as 50%. I understand pilots also have a substantial FedEx discount. Know any?
Aug 12, 2008 | 6:44 am
#21
Join Date: Jul 2004
Programs: Qantas Gold, Marriot Silver, Sofitel, USAir, Delta,Meritus,Plat IC Ambassador
Posts: 361
For around half of that price consider the US Postal Service. Yes, the Post Office. 
Something like Global Express Guaranteed that is part USPS/part courier (FedEx? DHL?) with online tracking. I use that or Express Mail International US-Australia frequently. Never a problem, even with fragile items (though never sent a computer).
It's usually just a bit more than regular airmail and if far faster. Of course take out the insurance like crazy but if you're really stuck I'd use them.
Something like Global Express Guaranteed that is part USPS/part courier (FedEx? DHL?) with online tracking. I use that or Express Mail International US-Australia frequently. Never a problem, even with fragile items (though never sent a computer).
It's usually just a bit more than regular airmail and if far faster. Of course take out the insurance like crazy but if you're really stuck I'd use them.
Aug 12, 2008 | 7:53 am
#22
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: YYZ/YKZ
Posts: 3,668
Pack it in the original box THEN cover it with some sort of non-discreet paper or put it into a slightly larger box. Apple's original boxes are designed to shop products worldwide, via air. In fact, most Apple products come from Shanghai. My MBP flew PVG-ANC-MEM-YYZ on FedEx just fine! If you don't have the original packing go to your local apple retailer and ask if they have any.
Aug 12, 2008 | 4:43 pm
#23
Join Date: Sep 2007
Programs: AA PLT, Hyatt PLT, Marriott Silver, National Exec
Posts: 95
I often bring servers as checked luggage. I package them by placing the server in the original packaging and placing that box inside another plain cardboard box with packing peanuts around it. I have never had a problem.