5 Easy Steps for Shipping Internationally

Learning how to ship internationally can seem overwhelming, but with the right steps and tools, it can be efficient and stress-free. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of shipping internationally to help you streamline your operations.

Topics covered in this article

What You’ll Need
Step 1: Understand Restrictions for Shipping Internationally
Step 2: Choose a Carrier and Service
Step 3: Prepare the Packages
Step 4: Create Shipping Labels
Step 5: Ship (and Track) Your Packages

What You’ll Need

What do I need to ship a package internationally? It’s a great question to start with! To set yourself up for success when shipping to other countries, you’ll need to have the right information and tools ready. Be sure to gather the following materials:

Sender's and receiver's name(s) and address
A list of items being sent
Packaging materials

Step 1: Understand Restrictions for Shipping Internationally

Shipping internationally involves import and export regulations for both origin and destination countries. Research these regulations to avoid issues with restricted products or required documentation.

Additionally, consider taxes, duties, and fees associated with international shipping to prevent unexpected costs and maintain customer satisfaction. Here are a few for Canada, Australia, the UK, and the EU to get you started.

Canada: Canada has specific restrictions on items such as food, plants, animals, and certain types of equipment. You should also be aware of Canada's rules regarding import taxes and duties, which vary depending on the value and type of goods. Here's a link to Canada Border Services Agency for detailed information.
Australia: Australia has stringent biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment. Certain items, including plants, animal products, and some food, are prohibited or need treatment before importation. Import duties and taxes apply to most goods above a certain value. Check out the Australian Border Force website for more details.
United Kingdom: The UK has its own list of restricted and prohibited items, which include certain foodstuffs, counterfeit goods, and offensive weapons. Since Brexit, shipments between the EU and UK are subject to customs procedures and may require payment of VAT and duties. For comprehensive information, refer to the UK government's official guidelines.
European Union: The EU has specific rules for importing goods, including restrictions on items like weapons, drugs, and certain animal products. Different VAT and customs duties apply depending on the goods and their origin. Visit the European Commission's Taxation and Customs Union website for more information.

Step 2: Choose a Carrier and Service

What is the best shipping service for international deliveries? And what is the cheapest way to ship internationally? The answers to both questions depend on several factors, including shipping rates and surcharges, desired delivery speeds, tracking, and insurance options.

To ensure you’re getting the lowest costs (and most reliable services) for every package you send, it’s best to compare offerings from major carriers such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. You may also want to explore regional carriers in the countries you’re shipping to.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of all this research, look into shipping software—it makes carrier comparison a breeze! For example, EasyPost customers can take advantage of our analytics tools to easily integrate with carriers, find the best shipping rates, and create shipping labels.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a carrier:

Shipping rates: Compare prices to find the most cost-effective option for your business. For example, USPS often provides lower prices for small, light packages, while UPS and FedEx might offer more competitive rates for heavier shipments.
Delivery speed: Delivery times can also vary. For instance, DHL Express Worldwide and FedEx International Priority can deliver packages in 1-3 business days to many countries. USPS Priority Mail Express International offers delivery within 3-5 business days, while UPS Worldwide Express can deliver within 1-3 business days. Always check the estimated delivery times provided by the carrier for the specific destination.
Tracking and insurance: All major carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL provide detailed tracking services for international shipments. For added security, consider shipping insurance options. USPS provides up to $200 of insurance with Priority Mail Express International, while UPS, FedEx, and DHL offer declared value coverage, which allows you to set the coverage amount based on the value of your shipment.

Be sure to check out our blog post that breaks down the best international shipping options for more info.

Step 3: Prepare the Packages

Packaging your products correctly is vital to prevent damage during transit and ensure a positive customer experience. Here's how you can prepare different types of items for shipping:

Books and Documents: Wrap in plastic to protect against water damage, then pack in a sturdy cardboard mailer. If you're shipping multiple books, place them spine to spine and wrap them together in bubble wrap.
Electronics: Use anti-static bubble wrap or foam to protect against electrostatic discharge. Place the wrapped item in a box lined with foam pads. Any empty space in the box should be filled with more foam or bubble wrap to prevent movement.
Clothing: Fold clothes neatly and place them in a plastic bag before putting them in a shipping bag or box. If the clothes are delicate, consider wrapping them in tissue paper first.
Fragile Items (Glassware, Art, etc.): Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap, securing it with tape. Place the items in a box lined with foam or more bubble wrap. Remember to fill all empty spaces to prevent movement.
Perishable Goods: Use insulated shipping boxes and pack with refrigerants like gel coolants or dry ice, as appropriate. Seal the perishables in airtight packaging to maintain freshness.
Large or Heavy Items: Use a double-walled box for added strength. Secure the item with strapping, if necessary, and use plenty of cushioning material to fill any gaps.

When shipping internationally, your packages go through a lot—multiple carriers, long distances, and rough handling. To ensure your products arrive in good condition, make sure to use sturdy, durable packaging materials. Use strong packing tape to secure your boxes and make sure they won't open during shipping.

Additionally, remember to choose the right box size—big enough to fit your items along with necessary padding, but without too much empty space that could lead to items shifting during transit. Using right-sized packaging will save money by giving you access to cheaper rates, cutting down on dimensional weight charges, and lowering material costs.

Step 4: Create Shipping Labels

Create shipping labels for your packages using EasyPost's solution or alternative label creation options. Verify that the recipient's address, return address, and customs information are correct on the label. Purchase postage online or at a local post office, depending on your chosen carrier. EasyPost offers discounted shipping rates and convenient postage printing.

Step 5: Ship (and Track) Your Packages

Finally, follow the instructions provided by your chosen carrier and send your packages on their way. Now, your main task is to monitor your shipments and provide customers with tracking information so they can do the same.

For customers, tracking offers peace of mind—they can monitor their order’s journey, anticipate delivery dates, and feel reassured that their package isn’t lost in transit. This transparency helps build trust and improves the overall shopping experience.

For your businesses, tracking reduces customer service headaches. It also provides proof of shipment and delivery, helping to resolve disputes or claims if something goes wrong. Plus, tracking allows you to proactively address delays or issues, leading to a smoother shipping process.

And that’s it—you’ve officially learned how to ship a package internationally!

International shipping can be a major headache, especially if not done right. But don’t worry; EasyPost's got your back! With discounted shipping rates, access to over 100 regional, national, and international carriers, and a customizable API, you'll be an international shipping pro in no time. Ready to take the plunge? Get shipping today.