Ordering doTERRA essential oils and wellness products from the United States to Australia can seem complicated, but with a little understanding, it’s entirely achievable. Many Australians choose to order directly from the US, potentially for access to a wider range of products or specific promotions not readily available locally. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process, covering everything from understanding the differences in product offerings to navigating shipping, customs, and potential cost savings.
Understanding the Differences: US vs. Australian doTERRA
Before embarking on your ordering journey, it’s crucial to understand that the doTERRA experience can differ between the US and Australia. This encompasses product availability, pricing, promotional offers, and even compliance with local regulations.
Product Availability and Formulations
While many core essential oils are consistent across markets, some products or formulations may be unique to either the US or Australia. DoTERRA constantly updates its product line, and certain items might be test-marketed or tailored to specific regional preferences. Always double-check that the specific product you’re looking for is available in the US before placing your order.
Furthermore, regulatory differences may impact formulations. For instance, some supplements or blends might contain ingredients that require specific approvals or are restricted in Australia. Review product labels and descriptions carefully to ensure compliance.
Pricing and Promotions
The pricing of doTERRA products can vary significantly between the US and Australia due to factors like import duties, currency exchange rates, and local operational costs. US prices may initially appear lower, but you must factor in shipping, potential taxes, and customs duties to accurately compare costs.
Promotional offers and Loyalty Rewards Program (LRP) benefits can also differ. While both markets offer incentives, the specific promotions, qualifying purchase amounts, and bonus products may vary. Keep a keen eye on current promotions in both regions and calculate which offers the best overall value for your specific needs.
Compliance and Regulatory Considerations
Australia has stringent regulations regarding therapeutic goods and supplements. DoTERRA Australia ensures its products comply with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) requirements. When ordering from the US, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the products you import meet Australian regulations. Failure to do so could result in customs delays, product seizure, or penalties.
Setting Up Your US doTERRA Account
If you’re not already a doTERRA Wellness Advocate or Wholesale Customer in the US, you’ll need to create an account. This is the first step towards accessing US products and pricing.
Choosing Your Membership Type
doTERRA offers two main membership options: Wholesale Customer and Wellness Advocate.
-
Wholesale Customer: This option provides access to products at wholesale prices (25% off retail), without the obligation to sell or build a business. It’s ideal for individuals who primarily want to purchase products for personal use.
-
Wellness Advocate: This option offers all the benefits of a Wholesale Customer, plus the opportunity to earn commissions by sharing doTERRA products and building a team. It’s suitable for those interested in the business side of doTERRA.
The initial cost for both membership types is typically a small annual fee. Often, purchasing an enrollment kit waives this fee. Enrollment kits bundle popular products at discounted prices, providing a great way to start your doTERRA journey.
The Enrollment Process
The enrollment process is straightforward and can be completed online.
- Visit the doTERRA US website.
- Select “Join & Save” or a similar option to start the enrollment process.
- Choose your desired membership type (Wholesale Customer or Wellness Advocate).
- Enter your personal information, including your name, contact details, and shipping address (this will be a US address, as explained below).
- Select your enrollment kit or choose individual products to reach the minimum order requirement for wholesale pricing.
- Provide your payment information and complete the order.
Using a US Shipping Address
Crucially, to order from the US doTERRA website, you’ll need a US shipping address. Since you reside in Australia, you’ll need to use a forwarding service.
Utilizing a Package Forwarding Service
Package forwarding services act as intermediaries, providing you with a US address to receive your doTERRA orders. They then forward your packages to your address in Australia. These services often offer additional benefits, such as package consolidation and customs assistance.
Choosing a Reliable Forwarding Service
Selecting the right package forwarding service is essential for a smooth ordering experience. Consider these factors:
- Reputation and Reviews: Research the service’s reputation and read reviews from other customers, particularly those in Australia. Look for feedback regarding reliability, shipping speed, and customer service.
- Pricing: Compare the pricing structures of different services, paying attention to shipping rates, handling fees, and any additional charges.
- Shipping Options: Ensure the service offers a variety of shipping options to Australia, including both express and economy options.
- Customs Assistance: Choose a service that provides assistance with customs declarations and paperwork to minimize potential delays.
- Insurance: Check if the service offers insurance to cover potential loss or damage during shipping.
Popular package forwarding services often used by Australians include Shipito, MyUS, and US Unlocked. Research and compare their offerings to find the best fit for your needs.
Setting Up Your Forwarding Account
Once you’ve chosen a forwarding service, you’ll need to create an account. This typically involves providing your personal information, including your Australian address and payment details. Upon completion, the service will provide you with a unique US address to use as your shipping address when placing your doTERRA order.
Entering the US Address on doTERRA
When placing your doTERRA order, carefully enter the US address provided by your forwarding service. Ensure you include any specific account numbers or identifiers required by the service to properly route your package.
Navigating Shipping, Customs, and Taxes
Shipping doTERRA products from the US to Australia involves navigating customs regulations, import duties, and Goods and Services Tax (GST). Understanding these aspects is crucial to avoid unexpected costs and delays.
Shipping Costs and Options
Shipping costs from the US to Australia can vary depending on the weight and dimensions of your package, the shipping speed you choose, and the forwarding service you use. Express shipping options are generally faster but more expensive, while economy options are more affordable but take longer.
Carefully compare shipping rates from different forwarding services and consider consolidating your doTERRA orders to minimize shipping costs per item. Some forwarding services offer package consolidation, where they combine multiple smaller packages into a single larger package, potentially saving you money on shipping.
Understanding Customs Regulations
Australia has strict customs regulations regarding imported goods. When your doTERRA package arrives in Australia, it will be subject to customs inspection. You may be required to provide documentation, such as an invoice and proof of purchase, to verify the contents and value of the package.
Certain doTERRA products, particularly supplements and therapeutic goods, may require specific import permits or approvals from the TGA. It’s your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all applicable regulations before importing these products. Failure to do so could result in customs delays, product seizure, or penalties.
Calculating Import Duties and GST
In addition to shipping costs, you may also be required to pay import duties and GST on your doTERRA order.
- Import Duties: Import duties are taxes levied on goods imported into Australia. The specific duty rate depends on the type of product and its country of origin.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): GST is a 10% tax applied to most goods and services in Australia, including imported goods.
GST is generally payable on the total value of your imported goods, including the cost of the products, shipping costs, and any applicable import duties.
You can use the Australian Border Force website to estimate potential import duties and GST on your doTERRA order. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and the actual amount payable may vary.
Paying Customs and Taxes
Your package forwarding service or the shipping carrier (e.g., DHL, FedEx) will typically handle the customs clearance process and collect any applicable import duties and GST on behalf of the Australian government. You’ll usually be required to pay these charges before your package is delivered.
Be aware of potential scams involving fake customs invoices. Always verify the legitimacy of any invoice before making a payment.
Potential Cost Savings and Considerations
While ordering from the US can sometimes offer access to a wider range of products or promotions, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate the overall cost to determine if it’s truly more economical than purchasing from doTERRA Australia.
Comparing Prices and Promotions
Before placing your order, compare the prices of the specific products you want to purchase in both the US and Australia. Factor in shipping costs, import duties, GST, and any potential currency conversion fees.
Also, compare the promotional offers available in both markets. Sometimes, doTERRA Australia offers promotions that make purchasing locally more advantageous.
Loyalty Rewards Program (LRP) Optimization
The doTERRA Loyalty Rewards Program (LRP) offers valuable benefits, such as earning points on purchases that can be redeemed for free products. Maximize your LRP benefits by strategically placing your orders in either the US or Australia, depending on which market offers the best overall value for your specific needs.
Potential Risks and Challenges
Ordering from the US to Australia involves certain risks and challenges, including:
- Customs Delays: Your package may be delayed in customs due to inspections, paperwork requirements, or regulatory issues.
- Product Seizure: If your products do not comply with Australian regulations, they may be seized by customs.
- Damage During Shipping: There is a risk of damage to your products during shipping, particularly for fragile items.
- Currency Fluctuations: Currency exchange rates can fluctuate, impacting the final cost of your order.
Be prepared to address these potential issues and have a plan in place to mitigate any negative impacts.
Tips for a Smooth Ordering Experience
To ensure a smooth and successful ordering experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Research Thoroughly: Before placing your order, research the products you want to purchase, the forwarding service you’ll use, and the applicable customs regulations.
- Calculate Costs Accurately: Carefully calculate the total cost of your order, including product prices, shipping costs, import duties, GST, and currency conversion fees.
- Choose a Reliable Forwarding Service: Select a reputable package forwarding service with a proven track record of delivering packages to Australia.
- Comply with Regulations: Ensure that your products comply with all applicable Australian regulations.
- Track Your Package: Track your package closely throughout the shipping process.
- Communicate Effectively: Communicate effectively with your forwarding service and doTERRA customer support if you have any questions or concerns.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently order doTERRA products from the US to Australia and enjoy the benefits of a wider product selection and potential cost savings. Remember to always prioritize compliance with Australian regulations and carefully consider all costs involved to make informed purchasing decisions.
What are the shipping options available when ordering doTERRA from the US to Australia?
When ordering doTERRA products from the US to Australia, you generally have a few shipping options. These typically include standard international shipping, expedited shipping, and occasionally, if your order is large enough, options for freight shipping. The availability and cost of each option will depend on the specific retailer or supplier you’re using to place your order, as well as the weight and dimensions of your package.
It’s important to carefully compare the costs and estimated delivery times for each option to determine the best choice for your needs. Keep in mind that expedited shipping will be significantly more expensive but will result in faster delivery times. Standard shipping is usually the most cost-effective option, but it can take several weeks for your order to arrive.
Are there any import duties, taxes, or customs fees I need to be aware of when importing doTERRA products into Australia?
Yes, you will likely encounter import duties, taxes, and customs fees when importing doTERRA products into Australia. Goods imported into Australia are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST), currently at 10%. In addition to GST, customs duties may apply depending on the value and origin of the products. These fees are usually collected by the shipping carrier (e.g., DHL, FedEx) on behalf of the Australian government before the goods are released to you.
The specific amounts of these fees can vary. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service regulations to accurately estimate the potential costs. Several online calculators can also assist in estimating these fees, but always verify this information with the relevant authorities or the shipping carrier to avoid surprises upon delivery.
Can I become a doTERRA Wellness Advocate in Australia and order directly from the US?
Becoming a doTERRA Wellness Advocate in Australia is certainly possible, and it can offer several advantages, but ordering directly from the US to Australia is generally not the recommended approach. As a Wellness Advocate, you would ideally order directly from doTERRA’s Australian warehouse to avoid international shipping costs, duties, and longer delivery times. Becoming a Wellness Advocate grants you access to wholesale pricing and potential income opportunities by sharing doTERRA products with others.
While technically possible to order from the US warehouse with an Australian account, doing so would defeat the purpose of having a local presence and incurring all the extra costs associated with international shipping. It’s best to create an account in Australia and purchase locally, enjoying all the benefits available to Wellness Advocates within the Australian market.
What payment methods are accepted when ordering doTERRA from the US to Australia?
The payment methods accepted when ordering doTERRA products from the US to Australia can vary depending on the retailer or platform you are using. Generally, major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted. Debit cards with the Visa or Mastercard logo are also commonly accepted. Some retailers may also offer the option to pay through online payment platforms like PayPal.
It’s important to check with the specific retailer or platform you are using to confirm which payment methods they accept. Be aware of any potential foreign transaction fees that your bank or credit card provider may charge for international purchases. Ensure your payment information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays or issues with your order.
Are there any restrictions on the types of doTERRA products I can import into Australia?
Yes, there are potential restrictions on the types of doTERRA products you can import into Australia. Australia has strict biosecurity and customs regulations in place to protect its environment and public health. Some essential oils or blends may be restricted or prohibited if they contain ingredients that are considered controlled substances or pose a biosecurity risk.
Before placing your order, thoroughly research the Australian import regulations for essential oils and related products. Check the ingredients list of each product you intend to import and compare it against the list of prohibited or restricted items provided by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in your products being confiscated or returned to the sender. Consulting with Australian customs officials or a customs broker is always a good idea if you’re unsure about the import status of a particular product.
How can I track my doTERRA order shipped from the US to Australia?
Tracking your doTERRA order shipped from the US to Australia is typically straightforward. Once your order has been processed and shipped, you will receive a tracking number from the shipping carrier, such as DHL, FedEx, or USPS. This tracking number will be sent to the email address you provided during the ordering process.
You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment online through the carrier’s website or a third-party tracking service. The tracking information will provide updates on the location of your package, including when it has been shipped, arrived in Australia, cleared customs, and is out for delivery. If you encounter any issues with tracking your order, contact the shipping carrier or doTERRA’s customer support for assistance.
What should I do if my doTERRA order arrives damaged or is missing items?
If your doTERRA order arrives damaged or is missing items, it’s important to take immediate action. Firstly, carefully document the damage by taking clear photos of the packaging and the damaged items. Next, verify the contents of your order against the packing slip or order confirmation to confirm which items are missing. Contact doTERRA’s customer support as soon as possible to report the issue.
Provide them with all the necessary details, including your order number, a description of the damage or missing items, and the photos you took. doTERRA’s customer support team will guide you through the process of resolving the issue, which may involve issuing a refund, sending replacement items, or initiating a claim with the shipping carrier. Keep all communication and documentation related to the issue for your records.