The Essential Guide to Shipping Packages Internationally

Shipping a parcel overseas is significantly more complex than domestic shipping. Between customs documentation, prohibited items lists, import duties, and wildly varying transit times, it's easy to make a costly mistake. This guide covers what you need to know before your package leaves the country.

Table of Contents

Choosing an International Carrier

Your main options for international parcel shipping include:

  • DHL Express — widely considered the gold standard for international speed, with robust customs expertise and coverage in 220+ countries
  • FedEx International Priority — strong option, especially to North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific
  • UPS Worldwide — competitive for business-to-business international shipments
  • USPS International — most affordable option for the US, though with longer transit times and less detailed tracking
  • Local postal services — many countries have bilateral postal agreements (ePacket, etc.) that provide affordable tracking for eCommerce

Required Documentation

Every international shipment requires paperwork. The key documents are:

  1. Commercial Invoice — required for all non-gift shipments; must include sender/recipient details, itemized contents, declared value, and HS (Harmonized System) commodity code.
  2. CN22 / CN23 Customs Declaration — required for postal shipments; identifies contents and value.
  3. Packing List — recommended for multi-item shipments; lists each item separately.
  4. Certificate of Origin — required for some countries and trade agreements to determine duty rates.

Tip: Always be accurate and honest on customs forms. Undervaluing goods to avoid duties is illegal in virtually all countries and can result in seizure, fines, or delays.

Realistic Transit Times

Service LevelTypical Transit Time
DHL / FedEx Express1–5 business days
UPS Worldwide Expedited2–5 business days
USPS Priority Mail International6–10 business days
USPS First-Class Package International7–21 business days
Postal economy services2–8 weeks

These are estimates. Customs clearance, public holidays, and destination postal network quality all affect actual delivery times.

Duties, Taxes & Import Fees

Import duties and taxes are determined by the destination country, not the sender's country. The recipient is typically responsible for these fees unless you're shipping DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), where the sender covers import costs upfront.

Key thresholds to know: many countries have a de minimis value below which no duties apply. For example, the EU's threshold is €150 for customs duties (though VAT still applies). The US threshold is $800.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Common internationally prohibited or restricted items include:

  • Lithium batteries (restrictions on standalone batteries vs. in-device)
  • Perishables and food products
  • Medications and pharmaceuticals
  • Firearms, weapons, and ammunition
  • Hazardous materials
  • Currency and negotiable instruments

Always check both your carrier's prohibited items list and the destination country's import restrictions before shipping.

Practical Tips for Smooth Delivery

  • Use the recipient's local phone number on the label — customs agents sometimes call ahead
  • Pack conservatively, as international shipments often pass through multiple handling points
  • Purchase adequate declared value coverage for high-value items
  • Keep copies of all customs documents until delivery is confirmed
  • Use a carrier with in-country delivery partnerships for remote destinations