The package shipping agencies to Cuba are seeing an increase in operational volume, with long lines of people waiting even outside the establishments.
Wait times for making a shipment can extend up to four hours at some agencies.
The increase in the volume of shipments has also led people to wait outside the agencies due to the high turnout inside the establishments.
The testimonies agree that the difficult conditions in Cuba are the main reason for making that sacrifice for those trying to survive on the other side.
"Due to the great need in our country: hunger, necessity, misery, there is no current," explained Hortensia Flores in statements to Telemundo 51, while sending a package to support her family in Cuba.
Some media outlets have suggested that the increase in shipments could be related to potential changes in the Washington administration and concerns about new restrictions from former President Donald Trump once the elected president takes office at the end of January.
However, the interviewees dismissed that argument and insisted that the crisis in Cuba is the real reason.
"The priority is to keep the family functioning more or less normally because they won’t be doing well otherwise," commented another interviewee to the aforementioned medium.
In some agencies in South Florida, a change has been observed in the types of items being shipped due to the energy crisis.
Now many are sending power generators, solar panels, rechargeable lamps, rechargeable fans, all aimed at making life a little less complicated for relatives living on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Packages to Cuba from Miami
Why have queues at shipping agencies to Cuba increased?
The increase in lines at the shipping agencies to Cuba is due to the difficult living conditions on the island, which has created a greater need to send basic products to assist families. The economic and energy crisis in Cuba drives many to send items such as generators and medicines from abroad.
What items are currently being sent to Cuba from Miami?
Due to the energy crisis in Cuba, many shipments include power generators, solar panels, and rechargeable fans. Additionally, food, medicine, and personal hygiene products are being sent, especially in light of potential changes to customs policies that could raise shipping costs.
What potential customs changes could affect the shipment of packages to Cuba?
There are fears that the Cuban regime may not renew the exemption on tariffs for the importation of essential goods, which could increase shipping costs. This exemption has so far allowed the entry of essential products without high tariff costs.
How does the fuel crisis in Cuba affect package deliveries?
The fuel crisis in Cuba is causing significant delays in package delivery. Correos de Cuba has confirmed that the fuel shortage is impacting the transportation and distribution capacity of shipments, resulting in delays in the arrival of packages to their recipients.
What strategies do Cubans abroad use to send packages to Cuba?
Cubans abroad optimize the space and weight of their shipments to maximize what they can send to their families in Cuba. This includes removing unnecessary boxes to save weight and prioritizing essential items, as well as organizing collections to send medicine and other basic necessities.
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