Why I skipped local stores to get my Framework Laptop 13 from the US to Thailand

February 10, 2026

Why I Chose the Framework Laptop 13 in 2026

I have always been frustrated by the lack of repairability in modern tech. When I saw the Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition) trending among enthusiasts in Taiwan, I knew I had to get my hands on one. While some older models float around Southeast Asia, the US store is the only place to get the absolute latest 2026 mainboard upgrades and specific modular parts that aren't available locally in Thailand. The ability to swap out ports and upgrade the processor myself is what makes this machine a standout choice for my workspace.

Why I skipped local stores to get my Framework Laptop 13 from the US to Thailand
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Ordering from the US Store

Since Framework does not ship directly to Thailand, I had to find a reliable freight forwarder to bridge the gap. I decided to use comGateway because they provided me with a tax-free US address in Oregon. This meant I could shop US store sites without paying the local US sales tax, which saved me quite a bit of money on a high-value item like a laptop.

Shipping Estimates for Thailand

Before I placed my order, I wanted to know exactly what I was getting into regarding costs. I used the shipping calculator to get a rough idea. Here are the estimates I gathered for the Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition):

Box Weight Approx. 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) for the full DIY kit and packaging.
Box Dimensions Medium (approx. 15 x 12 x 3 inches). It is relatively compact.
Volumetric Warning Since laptops are dense, the actual weight usually exceeds the volumetric weight. You likely won't face high volumetric surcharges unless you add a lot of bulky accessories.
Battery Check Important: This item contains a Lithium-ion battery. Most international shipping carriers have strict shipping rules for batteries. Generally, as long as the battery is installed inside the laptop or packed with the equipment, it can be shipped via DHL international shipping or FedEx international shipping, but check the prohibited items list for any updated 2026 restrictions.

How I Handled Payment Issues with BuyForMe

One hurdle I encountered was that some specialized US electronics stores are known to block international credit cards or cancel orders that use a known forwarding address. While Framework is generally friendly, many other stores like Apple or Best Buy can be difficult. This is where I found the proxy shopping solution, also known as "BuyForMe."

With the "BuyForMe" service, I simply told the comGateway team what I wanted. They used a US-based payment method to purchase the laptop on my behalf. This is the safest way to ensure an order isn't cancelled due to "security flags" triggered by a non-US billing address. If you are worried about your Thai credit card being declined, this is the path I recommend taking.

Managing International Shipping and Import Tax

Once the laptop arrived at my US address, I checked the international shipping rates to see which carrier would get it to Bangkok the fastest. I wanted a "speed run" experience, so I opted for a premium express service. You can see the current international shipping fees here to compare your options.

I also had to prepare for the import tax. In Thailand, laptops generally fall under specific customs categories. It is vital to stay updated on import duties to avoid surprises when the courier arrives at your door. In my experience, having the correct documentation provided by my freight forwarder made the customs clearance process much smoother. I received my Framework Laptop 13 in just under a week after it left the warehouse, which felt incredibly fast for a cross-border delivery in 2026.

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