in my experience, the cheapest way around shipping is to have a relative based in the country where you want to buy your items from use balikbayan boxes-pinoy shipping services based in that specific country. although there is a 4-6-week layover, u only pay for the shipping costs, no taxes or whatsoever so long as the items are declared as "personal" and "used" and not intended for commercial or trade purposes. door to door. having said all these, please also be wary of dodgy pinoy shipping services and rely on established and notable ones. in the USA, i can vouch for Manila Forwarders and Highlights Express as i've been using them most of the time. they have different rates for various box sizes and types (carton or crate). they can provide you with styro, packing tapes, bubble wraps for free if you know how to play your cards right.
here's a sample scenario of how i go about it:
1. buy from website or ebay.
2. pay item and local shipping by credit card or paypal
3. have the item shipped to my bro, cousin, or whichever relative is free to hassle.
4. either i or my relative will call the pinoy shipping service to negotiate shipping and schedule box and packing tape etc delivery
5. pack items into box securely and label all sides with sender and recipient details
6. book pick up of package from pinoy courier
7. wait for 4-6 weeks for delivery at home.
8. take delivery, open box, inspect, happy boy with new toys!
sample price: 40-50usd for 18"x18"x16" box, delivered door to door within metro manila, usually includes box, packing tape, bubble wrap, styro (depending on your negotiation and needs).
at 50usd and 3 cu ft of box, imagine the number of items you can put in there and your savings for shipping despite the 4-6-week wait.
they have other box sizes and types for your needs as well.
some items i have shipped through them: drum kit, wheels for cars, drum accessories, cymbals, car parts like bumpers and boot lid/ hoods etc. all items arrived in perfect condition and i never experienced any problems with em.
note: im simply sharing my personal experience and not advicing or recommending anything. you are responsible for what you make out of this. kindly act in your own best interest and discretion.