I don't know anything about Shapeways' logistics, the demand at each factory, printer idle time etc. However,
a tutorial says that the printing process should occur in the nearest factory. In the case of a shipment to Brazil, it would be the American factory. However, I placed an order two weeks ago, which should be delivered at my home (BrasÃlia, Brazil), and it was printed at the Netherlands!
It took 3 days to arrive at the USA, and will come to Brazil next. There are many direct flights from here to the USA and vice-versa, but none to the Netherlands. If these 3 European days did not exist, I would receive my models today. This might not be a great delay after 12 days until the last item could be produced, but might be the difference between a satisfied and an unsatisfied customer. And it could reflect on freight cost too, and consequently on import taxes, which are calculated on FOB price.
Best regards,
Last edited: Sep 27, 2014