I found a way to get the Framework Laptop 13 DIY Edition delivered to Hong Kong with almost zero effort
Why the Framework Laptop 13 is still my top choice in 2026
I have been following the 'Right to Repair' movement for years, and by 2026, it has become clear that modularity is the only way I want to buy my tech. While there are local options, I specifically wanted the Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition). The reason I chose the US version is simple: it allows me to access US-exclusive expansion cards and specific modules that I just couldn't find elsewhere. Plus, I love the idea of putting the whole thing together myself.
I realized that getting this specific edition requires buying directly from the source in the United States. Since I live in Hong Kong, I knew I needed a reliable way to get it here without dealing with a mountain of logistics forms or complicated shipping routes.
My experience ordering from the US store
When I first tried to buy my laptop, I hit a wall. Many US-based tech stores, including the ones that stock specialized components, are notoriously picky about international customers. I have seen many friends have their orders cancelled because they tried to use a credit card issued outside the US or because they used a address that the store flagged as a freight forwarder.
I wanted the DIY Edition because of the deeper customization options available in 2026, but the store I was looking at kept declining my payment. It turns out that brands like Apple, Nike, and even Framework sometimes block international credit cards to prevent fraud or control regional distribution. I didn't want to spend my weekend arguing with customer support or trying to find a US-based friend to help me out.
How I bypassed store cancellations with BuyForMe
This is where I used what I call the lazy method. I decided to try the BuyForMe service from comGateway. Instead of me trying to force my Hong Kong credit card through a US checkout system, I let them handle the entire purchase. We basically just tell them what we want to buy, and they use a US domestic card to make the purchase on our behalf.
I found this to be the safest way to guarantee my order didn't get cancelled. It solved the problem of my card being blocked and the store being suspicious of my shipping address. They bought the Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition) for me, and it was delivered to my tax-free us address in Oregon. Since Oregon has no sales tax, I actually saved a bit of money on the initial purchase price, which was a nice bonus.
Getting my laptop to Hong Kong the easy way
Once the laptop arrived at the warehouse, I needed to get it home. I'm not a fan of complicated logistics, so I looked for a straightforward international shipping service that could handle the jump from the US to Asia. I wanted my Hong Kong delivery to be fast and tracked every step of the way.
Before I gave the green light, I used their shipping calculator to see exactly what I would be paying. I don't like surprises when it comes to costs, and the estimate helped me decide which shipping speed worked best for my budget. I chose a mid-tier option that balanced speed and price, and I was able to track the package right to my door in Kowloon.
Avoiding the paperwork and hidden costs
One of the things I love about living in Hong Kong is that we are a free port. However, I still made sure to check the guide on import duties just to be 100% sure I wouldn't be hit with unexpected fees. For most electronics, we are lucky here, but it’s always better to know the rules before the package arrives.
By using an established international shipping provider, I didn't have to fill out any complex customs declarations myself. They handled the paperwork side of things, which fits my goal of doing the least amount of work possible to get my tech.
What I checked before shipping
Before the laptop left the US, I had two main concerns. First, the battery. We know that lithium batteries can sometimes be tricky. I checked the list of prohibited items to make sure a laptop with an integrated battery was okay to ship. Since it was part of the device and not a loose spare battery, it was perfectly fine under the current 2026 regulations.
Second, I had a few questions about how they handle fragile electronics. I spent a few minutes in their FAQ section and found that they offer repacking services. I opted for some extra protection to make sure my DIY kit didn't get rattled around too much during its flight across the Pacific. If you're looking for the easiest way to buy from US ship to Hong Kong, I highly recommend letting the pros handle the ordering and the packing.
My final thoughts on the process
The Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition) is an incredible piece of hardware, and I am glad I didn't let the regional shipping restrictions stop me. By using a proxy service to buy it and a reliable forwarder to ship it, I avoided all the stress of cancelled orders and customs headaches. It really was the path of least resistance for me. If you are ever unsure about a specific step, you can always reach out to their support team, but the process is so automated now in 2026 that you likely won't even need to.
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