Why I prefer using a freight forwarder to get the original Glossier Strawberry formula delivered to the Netherlands

April 14, 2026

The return of an icon: Why my social feed is full of Strawberry Balm Dotcom

I recently noticed a massive resurgence of Glossier posts on my feed, specifically regarding the Strawberry Balm Dotcom. If you followed the drama over the last few years, you know that Glossier moved to a vegan formula that, frankly, didn't sit well with the loyalists. We missed the lanolin. We missed the thick, protective barrier that the original formula provided.

Why I prefer using a freight forwarder to get the original Glossier Strawberry formula delivered to the Netherlands
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As of April 2026, the brand has fully embraced its roots. The "Original Formula" restock, particularly in the viral Strawberry flavor, has become a global sensation again. I’ve seen it trending across Dcard and Xiaohongshu, with users in Taiwan and Singapore clamoring for it. But for those of us living in the Netherlands, getting our hands on the specific US-only bundles can be a bit of a puzzle.

Why I choose to shop US stores from the Netherlands

While Glossier has expanded its international presence, I often find that the US store has the best stock levels and exclusive sets that aren't always available in Europe. When the Strawberry flavor restocked in the original lanolin base, it sold out in regional hubs almost instantly. By choosing to shop US store directly, I bypass the local stock shortages.

My preference is to use a freight forwarder because it allows me to access a tax-free US address in Oregon. This means I don't pay US sales tax on my purchase, which helps offset some of the costs of moving the product across the Atlantic. If I'm ever unsure if a specific beauty product can be sent, I always check the list of prohibited items to ensure my lip balms aren't restricted by shipping rules.

My strategy for using a freight forwarder

Using package forwarding has become a staple in my shopping routine. The process is quite simple: I ship my Glossier order to my comGateway suite, and they notify me the moment it arrives. For those who find US checkout systems difficult or if a card is declined, I recommend looking into a proxy shopping service like BuyForMe. It simplifies the entire transaction by having the experts handle the purchase on your behalf.

Once my items are at the warehouse, I can choose my preferred carrier. Whether I want DHL international shipping for speed or FedEx international shipping for reliability, the choice is mine. I always use the shipping calculator before I hit the "buy" button so I have a clear idea of what my total investment will be.

Shipping Estimates for your Glossier haul

To help you plan your own delivery to the Netherlands, I have put together these estimates based on a typical order of 3 to 5 Balm Dotcom tubes.

Factor Estimate
Box Weight Approx. 0.4 kg to 0.6 kg (including protective packaging)
Box Dimensions Small (Approx. 15cm x 10cm x 5cm)
Volumetric Warning Low. These items are dense and small, so you will likely be charged based on actual weight rather than size.
Battery Check No lithium batteries contained in this product. Standard shipping rules apply.

What I learned about Netherlands import tax and VAT

Shipping to the Netherlands means we have to be mindful of the Dutch Customs (Belastingdienst). Since 2021, the VAT exemption for small goods has been removed. This means that for every package entering the country from outside the EU, you will likely be charged 21% VAT.

I suggest reading up on import duties and import tax before your package arrives. In my experience, the freight forwarder often provides options to pre-pay these fees or handles the documentation so that PostNL or DHL can process it quickly upon arrival in Schiphol. Being prepared for these costs prevents any surprises when the delivery driver knocks on your door.

My final thoughts on the 2026 restock

Is it worth the effort of international shipping just for a lip balm? For the original Strawberry formula, my answer is a resounding yes. The lanolin version is significantly more hydrating than the vegan alternative we saw in 2024 and 2025. By using a parcel forwarding service, I can ensure I am getting the authentic original formula directly from the source.

If you are looking to restock your vanity this year, keep an eye on the weight of your total cart. Combining multiple items into one shipment is the most cost-effective way to use a freight forwarder. Happy shopping, and enjoy that nostalgic strawberry scent!

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