This is a reprint of a letter I wrote yesterday to the editor of the Tico Times in response to an article published in the May 26, 2006 edition entitled, "Tips on Shipping Items into Costa Rica."

Dear Editor:

I wanted to comment about your article this past week about "Tips on Shipping Items into Costa Rica." I can really appreciate the reason for the article, as getting goods shipped here to Costa Rica can be challenging — at best. But as optimistic as the article presents the subject, I find the reality of receiving packages here in Costa Rica to be much different.

I originally used Jetbox, but had to say goodbye to them and search for another service. I always sent things to my Miami Jetbox address using a tracking number. But quite often I would have to wait 2 to 3 weeks to receive my package here after my package was received at the Jetbox office in Miami.

Now I use DHL’s Net Express service, but I occasionally run into problems with them as well. For instance, they have had a package of mine for four months and can’t seem to get it to me. Sadly, the goods are perishable and have already reached their expiration date. They did fax me a bill for 300% tax on the total of what I bought. We’re talking $150 tax on $50 worth of espresso pods here folks.

But what I find more frustrating is the fact that I get charged way more tax than I should for the items I order. This week I picked up something from the DHL office that cost me $5. I was taxed $10. A few months ago I paid 50% tax on a DVD. They called me today and told me I had a $10 book from Amazon to pick up and it would cost me $5 in taxes to claim.

In the end, I’m finding that it’s better to do without than it is to end up paying too much and getting upset. I’ve also had to reduce my expectations of these companies. Customer service is an oddity to them and I’ve never ever received a return phone call from them when they say they’ll "research" the problem and get back to me. I end up having to start all over again with the next person and the cycle continues.

I really feel like a prisoner of the system. Someone gets away with over-charging for taxes. I have nobody to hold responsible. DHL blames aduana, and aduana doesn’t respond to my questions. Perhaps sometime you can do an article on customer service?

Kind regards,

Scott Pralinsky
Paraiso de Cartago