I don't think Mandarake has a problem changing the shipping method from the one you selected, if you ask before you pay. I think all they have to do is take the same package and apply different rates to the weight/dimensions.

Here's my rule of thumb when ordering from Mandarake:

1 figure: use SAL
2 figures: use SAL unless you really really want them right away, in which case I go with DHL
3+ figures: use DHL

If the order is from Mandarake Nakano branch then I use DHL no matter what because it's almost as cheap as SAL there(and nowhere else - no idea why, but Nakano get a big price break on DHL).

DHL scales better than EMS for larger orders. They're roughly comparable to a point though.

or perhaps future floor polish?

So with all this Mandarake talk, I Just ordered Figuarts Gokai Red (3000 yen) and the Morphin Blaster (2000 yen) which are hopefully good deals, but I am thinking of going SAL because its about 1380 yen and the registered part means its trackable right?

Yes. All SAL orders through them go registered now, so you will have tracking available for the order.

Ah, ok. Thanks for the confirmation!

What's the fastest shipping from Mandarake to Canda, because I've been using EMS which always costs about $30 and it only takes a few days. Is DHL that fast but more affordable?

EDIT: Nrm, the info I needed was buried in the sea that is this conversation.

So I just got my package from HLJ containing some figuarts and all the boxes and trays were warped to some extent (and Red Buster's box tape was even cut!). Is it possible humidity from rain could have done this? The package was sitting in between my front glass and regular doors so it didn't get wet but this is annoying.

Is it hot where you are? That could explain all the warping, but I would still be suspicious about the tape. I'd probably tell HLJ about it at least.

Was around the 70's today, so not too hot. Not sure HLJ could really do anything for me, considering they're sold out of all 3 (Red Buster, Iron Man & War Machine). I did tweet at them though.

The tape could have split from being humid, then dry.