In Australia at least, DHL has a horrible reputation for trying to impose extra charges for inspection and quarantine, even when no actual inspection has been done.
I do agree that a cheaper, slower option would be nice for international shipping, as the costs escalate pretty quickly once you buy anything which isn't a bottle of caps. If I'm just stocking up on staples during a sale, I would much rather be able to buy more stuff even if it meant I have to wait an extra couple of weeks.