Shipping Routers to Countries with Import Restrictions

FlashRouters ships around the world. Currently, people in over 75 countries use a FlashRouter to connect to the Internet. However, many countries impose import restrictions or bans on electronic devices, like routers. As a result, we cannot ship to these countries directly.

FlashRouters is committed to providing network protection for anyone with an Internet connection. For people who live in a country with shipping limitations, we have options for you: look into a freight forwarding service or take advantage of our one-on-one Flash My Router Plan.

Benefits of Using a FlashRouter

For those unfamiliar, a FlashRouter is a wireless router flashed with customized Open Source firmware. Upgrading to a FlashRouter provides added network stability, increased range, and enhanced security.

And unlike most default configuration routers, a FlashRouter can be configured with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs work by tunneling your data through a secure tunnel, preventing outside snoopers from spying on your activity. With a VPN, you can keep your and your family’s data secure.

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Using A Freight Forwarder

For shipping to a country with import restrictions, a freight forwarding service is a great option for bringing a router to your door. A freight forwarding service does not actually ship the package, but instead acts as an intermediary between the shipper and various transportation services. In other words, freight forwarders handle logistics for the shipping of goods between one international location to the other.

Managing these shipping logistics requires extensive knowledge of shipping routes, trade regulations, and customs. Keeping track of all of these would confuse most people or small businesses looking to send a package overseas.

Thankfully, freight forwarders make this seemingly improbable task probable.

The Freight Forwarding Process

The freight forwarding process begins when a package is sent to the freight forwarder’s warehouse. There, the package receives clearance to leave its country of origin and is unloaded, inspected, and validated against its booking documents. Afterward, authorities check the package’s customs paperwork. Finally, the package is transferred from the import warehouse to its destination.

During this process, a host of documents must be filled out. These documents include the commercial invoice, Bill of Lading contract, certificate of origin, inspection certificate, export license, export packing list, and the shippers export declaration document. These documents always follow the product and are checked at each point in the shipping process.

Freight forwarders manage both sides of the shipping process. They plan the route, fill out the paperwork, and deal with customs. And, because they are able to legally bring in goods into territories with import restrictions, there are no legal implications.

Shipping to Countries With Import Restrictions

Countries with restrictions on importing routers include Cuba, Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Lebanon, Malaysia, Yemen, Russia, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and countries in Africa with the exception of South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.

All of these countries ban imports on a number of United States products for different reasons. Let’s go down the list for some of our most asked about restricted shipping countries and see why.

Open Source Routers in Cuba

In 1962, the United States government imposed a strict embargo against Cuba. Since then, aspects of the embargo have softened. However, imports of telecommunications devices (including routers) face harsh import restrictions in Cuba. In other words, exporters to Cuba could potentially face legal challenges for delivering these products.

And, Cuban customs can still seize any goods, so shipping directly to Cuba is very difficult. So, shipping a router to Cuba requires a freight forwarding service. Crowley is one such service customers can use.

Using a VPN Router for Russia

The Russian Government places extreme restrictions on the import of technological goods from the US, including routers.

Following Russia’s involvement in Ukraine, including its role in shooting down a Malaysian air jet, the US and the EU imposed sanctions on Russia. In turn, the Russian government imposed several rounds of bans on many products from the US, most recently in mid-2018.

These restrictions make it nearly impossible to transport technology into the country. However, parcel services like MyUs are a potential way to ship to Russia. Services like MyUs will handle paperwork and customs.

To avoid dealing with the hassle of understanding import restrictions customers can also purchase a FlashRouters “Flash My Router” Plan.

Can I Set Up A FlashRouter Remotely?

While using a freight forwarding service is one way to receive a FlashRouter, it is not the only way to do so. There is always the option of purchasing the router locally and having the FlashRouters Support Team flash it remotely, via our Flash My Router Plan.

Flash My Router

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FEATURES

• 1-on-1 Session With Expert Technician
• Basic Internet/Wi-Fi/VPN Setup
• Open Source Firmware "Flash" Upgrade
• Includes a $30 Service Credit

This is a perfect option for anyone who already owns one of our supported models.

The FlashRouters VPN Setup Plan installation also includes the latest open source firmware as well as our custom VPN Router Privacy App. The app includes a variety of simplifying features for increased network controls and enhanced privacy.

Protect Yourself with the FR Privacy App

Any VPN-configured FlashRouter comes with the FlashRouters VPN Privacy App. The FR Privacy App is an easy, free, and user-friendly way to access and configure your wireless network. Our app runs directly from any Internet browser on desktop or mobile devices.

This allows for easy tweaking and VPN configuration, including but not limited to:

• • • Easy device management.
    • Seamless VPN server switching.
    • Optimized UI on any browser or mobile phone.
    • Kill switch and VPN bypass by device.

Want better support for your entire network? The FlashRouters Privacy App is here to help.

In addition, having a subscription to the Support Plan also means you will have access to the FlashRouters Support Team for any questions about your network configuration or VPN integration.

Have any other questions? Feel free to contact us.