Avoid sending gifts overseas to avert humiliation!

My son mailed a birthday gift to a friend in Germany on 12/02/2016 (both are students). <br> Imagine his embarrassment when her Mother had to pay customs duty of 17Euro upon receipt of the gift (Mother is annoyed: she equates the charge as subsidising the postage). <br> <br> Fee for DHL Express Shipment of 0.38kg=R350. Charge the sender all relevant charges, don't penalise the recipient! DHL states 'signed for by: recipient' on tracking but omits recipient had to pay a 17Euro for her birthday gift.<br> <br> This aside, the gifts were unwrapped (surely scanning is an adequate form of security). DHL desecrated the parcel! The contents were stuffed back into the DHL cardboard envelope; hopefully the contents are intact because it will only be formally re-opened on the young lady's birthday.<br> <br> I appeal to DHL/customs; consider refunding the recipient 17Euro. How do friends nurture relationships under such stringent penalties on birthday presents? :-( <br> <br> What should have been a memorable occasion was traumatic & humiliating. I am appalled! <br> <br> Surely, in a world torn by conflict and devastation, we should encourage 'ubuntu' (humanity, compassion and goodness) amongst the younger generation.