If Global Shipping is finally dropping Pitney Bowes, it is cause for celebration. My own practice, like Jessie's--after being burned four years ago with a confiscation that displeased the kind seller almost as much as myself (though I did snag the article in question from the "factoryoutletstore" after waiting a couple of months-- is to write a seller and explain. Specifically, that in my experience GSP is extremely unreliable, extortionately expensive, and glacially show. Adding that I completely understand why sellers like being totally off the hook and getting paid as soon as their "item" reaches a UK global "hub." Most are usually a bit shocked by the actual dollar amount listed on their offering (which is normally hidden from sellers). And many understand it is not much more difficult to use Royal Mail International service than domestic service. (The nuisance is changing their shipping policy with a live listing.) Usually, if you convince a seller that you are willing to be patient, and don't file nondelivery claims with eBay when international mail is slow, they'll "talk." I've managed twice this month--a seller in France even sent me photos of the package he sent (addressed, stamped, and ready to go). Of course your mileage may vary.