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Shipping times from India to other countries can vary significantly. Some users report deliveries to Germany within 5-8 days, while domestic shipments within India can take much longer. Customs can be a factor, with some packages being returned from China to India, though not necessarily impacting shipments to Germany. Delivery times can range from 10 days to two months, and there can be issues with shipments originating from China.

Shipping goods from India to Russia can be handled via India Post, CDEK (available in select locations), or third-party tourist courier services. Logistics options depend heavily on item type, dimensions, and weight.

Sending small parcels (1-2 kg) from India to Russia involves several options. Using tourists as couriers is sometimes suggested but carries risks and is not always reliable. India Post is another option, though experiences vary. Pricing for India Post is estimated at around 3500 INR for the first kg and 1000 INR for subsequent kgs. Restrictions may apply regarding packaging; items might need to be in boxes, and non-standard sizes could be an issue.

Receiving Amazon packages in Delhi is generally straightforward. Couriers typically contact recipients via phone or WhatsApp, and package tracking is available in the app. If unable to receive the package personally, it can often be left with a trusted person (relative, neighbor, hotel reception, or even a local cafe). An OTP code might be required for confirmation, which can be provided over the phone. Be aware that delivery dates can be flexible, with potential delays or early arrivals. Some items may have specific payment requirements (e.g., OTP, card payment) or delivery restrictions.

Registration for Amazon.in requires an Indian phone number for account verification. Creating an account using only email is possible, but delivery of certain shipments requires OTP verification via SMS. Foreign phone numbers are not supported for account registration or updating. Use a local Indian SIM card number for reliable courier delivery and OTP reception.

Amazon India delivery procedures involve inconsistent OTP requirements for package completion. The system does not strictly correlate with order value or housing type (standalone house vs. apartment). If an OTP is required, the recipient must provide it to the courier to complete the delivery.

Sweetened condensed milk is available for purchase in India, often in metal cans. Travelers can buy it locally and boil it to make dulce de leche (varenaya sgushchenka). Many residents find Indian dairy products, including condensed milk, to be of good quality.

Traditional Russian-style cottage cheese (tvorog) is not commonly found in Indian stores, but it can be easily made at home. Some expatriates also prepare and sell it. For a readily available alternative, 'dahi' (Indian yogurt) is often used. Historically, the availability of cheese varieties in India has expanded beyond paneer, suggesting that other dairy products like tvorog might become more common in the future.

Traditional sour cream is not readily available in India. However, 'curd' (thick yogurt, or dahi) can be used as a base to create a sour cream substitute. By mixing curd with cream and a hint of lemon juice, then letting it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours, a product with a similar taste and texture can be achieved.

Clothing in India is generally inexpensive and widely available, allowing for wardrobe updates at a lower cost compared to many other countries. International chain stores like H&M are present, with prices in India significantly lower than in regions like the UAE.

In Chennai, for local Indian designer clothing, consider visiting large universal shopping malls that often have websites detailing their stores. Specific multi-story department stores to check include Zudio, Cotton House, Chennai Silk, Shobha, and Westside.

While carrying cash in India is recommended due to limited card acceptance, credit and debit cards are functional in many establishments with POS terminals, including supermarkets, malls, pharmacies, and petrol stations. Always verify prices, especially where there is no fixed pricing (e.g., small shops). If a Maximum Retail Price (MRP) is indicated on the product, insist on paying that amount. Using a calculator can sometimes help enforce the correct price.

For Amazon India orders, online UPI payment may be restricted depending on the delivery address. Users can select 'Pay on Delivery' and pay via UPI QR code upon receipt. Coordinate delivery times via WhatsApp or phone; if language barriers exist, use Google Maps location pins. P2P payment upon inspection is a safer alternative for expensive items.

When using local Indian e-commerce platforms, new users may face restrictions on Cash on Delivery (COD) options. It is recommended to make a small initial purchase via prepaid methods to establish account credibility. Logistics can be unreliable, so expect potential delivery delays.

Online shopping in India via Amazon or Flipkart requires caution. Major tips: Use Cash on Delivery (CoD) to avoid scams or delivery issues, check seller ratings carefully, and be aware that international bank cards may have trouble linking to UPI platforms like PhonePe.