As I am restoring a 1959 Mercedes 190SL, I constantly need parts that are simply not available in the United States. As a result, I often have to search for them in Germany, but that is only the beginning of the challenge.
Because of the new customs tariffs imposed on many European countries, not only are some European businesses refusing to sell to customers in the United States, but many post offices across Europe are also no longer accepting parcels destined for the U.S. In many cases, the only available shipping options are UPS, FedEx, or DHL.
Recently, I needed a few parts for my 1959 Mercedes, and the only place I could find them was in Germany. Unfortunately, the two sellers refused to ship directly to the United States. My only option was to have the parts shipped to my sister in Paris, France, and then have her forward them to my home in Tigard, Oregon.
On Tuesday, July 28, at around 11:00 a.m., my sister called to let me know she had shipped the package just a few hours earlier. She also texted me the FedEx tracking number. I told myself I would check the tracking the following morning.
Then came the surprise.
On Wednesday, July 29, at approximately 10:30 a.m., I heard the doorbell ring. Looking out the window, I saw a FedEx delivery van. When I opened the door, I could hardly believe my eyes; it was the package my sister had shipped from Paris less than 24 hours earlier.
I was absolutely amazed.
I immediately called my sister in Paris and told her the package had already been delivered. At first, she thought I was joking. But after I texted her a few photos, she was just as astonished as I was.
Receiving an international package from Paris, France, in Tigard, Oregon, in less than 24 hours seemed almost impossible.
Thank you, FedEx, for such an incredible delivery experience.