Paul,

Parcel post is usually cheapest but there is an alternative you should
check out. Fedex has a a hidden program called "Great Rates." As long as
your box weighs at least 11 pounds (or has a dimensional weight of 11
pounds or more) you get something between 50 and 85% off their usual
rates. You can find it by searching on the Fedex website for "great
rates" and then you have to call them to schedule the day for your
shipment. For some countries the rate varies a lot, for instance from
here to Germany on Tuesdays (when they apparently have excess capacity
on their planes) is 85% off, but less of a discount on other days. There
are different rules when you are using your account to import from other
countries but it is always the best deal.

Since DHL was bought by Deutsche Post they don't care much about
competing, it seems.

David