More Than Just a New Look: Reinforcing Our Core Mission

Since 2016, every service and feature we’ve developed and every partnership we’ve forged at GlobalPost has been guided by a core principle: to offer hassle-free, low-cost international shipping. We believe that shipping globally should be straightforward, allowing you to focus on what you do best: growing your business. Over 25 million shipments later, this idea remains at the heart of everything we do.

Our refreshed branding is a visual representation of this commitment. The updated logo and website are designed to be more modern, approachable, and reflective of the innovative services we provide. While the look and feel have evolved, our promise to deliver streamlined international shipping remains steadfast.

Our Continued Investment in Your Growth

This brand refresh isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about reinforcing our commitment to your success. We understand that the world of international shipping is constantly evolving, and we’re dedicated to evolving with it. 

In 2024, this commitment was evident in the expansion of our services to Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited about planned improvements to our logistics network, expansion to more platforms, and continued improvements to our services.

These updates build upon the core benefits you’ve come to love from GlobalPost:

• Hassle-Free Shipping: Focus on your business, not the shipping.
• Low-Cost Rates: Boost your profits with our low-cost options.
• Free Harmonized Tariff Code Classification: We help you identify the codes you need.
• Skip the Paperwork: No customs forms to print, saving you valuable time.
• Flexible Duty & Tax Payments: Choose the option that works best for your business.

Our new visual identity reflects our ongoing investment in providing you with the tools and services you need to thrive. We invite you to explore our refreshed website and discover how GlobalPost continues to make international shipping hassle-free, cost-effective, and focused on your growth. 

We’re excited about this next chapter and remain dedicated to being your trusted partner in reaching new customers worldwide.

The post GlobalPost Has a New Look appeared first on GlobalPost.

On November 15th, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) began a national strike, resulting in a total shutdown of Canada Post operations until December 16, 2024. Collective agreements were reached that extended through May 22, 2025, which ensured no further disruptions until that date.

After further negotiations, on September 26, 2025, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) began another nationwide strike, prompting Canada Post to suspend all mail and package processing and delivery, including to P.O. boxes.

At GlobalPost, we recognize the concerns that come with this uncertainty. We’re here to help you stay informed, plan ahead, and be ready for whatever comes next. We’re doing everything we can to support your shipping needs and keep things running as smoothly as possible.

Impact on Canadian shipments

A potential nationwide strike would disrupt all mail and parcel services across Canada’s urban, rural, and suburban areas. If an agreement isn’t reached, packages currently in transit via Canada Post could face delays until the strike ends. Furthermore, shipments relying on Canada Post for final delivery, including those destined for P.O. Boxes and many rural locations, would be affected. Shippers to Canada should also anticipate potential surcharges or disruptions through other carriers due to shifts in shipping volumes.

Potential shipping delays

Although both parties are striving for a resolution, shippers must be aware of potential impacts. In the event of a strike, and in the period following its conclusion, significant delays are likely as Canada Post manages the resulting backlog. To protect your shipping schedule, taking proactive measures to mitigate these delays is strongly recommended.

How to prepare

To help you navigate potential Canada Post disruptions and maintain smooth shipping, consider the following key actions to plan your shipping strategy:

• Ensure Accurate Customs: Help prevent further delays and complications by providing correct and complete customs documentation for all shipments.
  • Add selling URLs to your customs details.
  • Add accurate descriptions for your products in your customs details.
  • Add First and Last names of the recipients, not business names in your customs details.
  • Add accurate valuation of your products to your customs details. Be sure to also add accurate details in your customs details.
  • Utilize our HS Classification tool for accurate tariff codes.
• Streamline with GlobalPost Plus: Enhance your customers’ experience by using GlobalPost Plus to handle taxes and duties upfront (Delivered Duties Paid – DDP). Ship with confidence to Canada and enjoy our advanced customs clearance process.
  Stay Informed: Bookmark this blog, our service updates page, and the Canada Post negotiations page to stay informed on real-time updates.
• Encourage Customer Awareness: Advise your customers to stay updated on the Canada Post situation and any related shipping advisories to manage their expectations.

How we’re managing during a strike

GlobalPost customers worried about disruptions to their shipping schedule are still able to ship parcels to Canada as usual. If the strike occurs, GlobalPost will reroute shipments through alternative networks that do not rely on Canada Post for final-mile delivery. While some delays may occur, our robust network supports the continued flow of goods, providing reliable alternatives to keep your business moving during these uncertain times. We are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds.

Here’s how GlobalPost will mitigate the impact of the strike:  

• Alternative Carrier Networks: Leveraging partnerships with trusted carriers, we help support the successful delivery of your shipments to their destinations. This transition minimizes delays and avoids the bottlenecks caused by service interruptions at Canada Post.  
• Slight Adjustments in Transit Times: While we strive for seamless delivery, please note that transit times may be slightly longer as we optimize routes through alternative vendors.  

Our role in ensuring continuity

GlobalPost acts as a facilitator rather than the final-mile delivery provider. We coordinate with a network of carriers, ensuring your shipments are handled efficiently from origin to destination. This approach allows us to adapt to challenges like the Canada Post strike, ensuring your customers experience as little disruption as possible.  

We know that timely delivery is critical to your business success, and we’re committed to providing reliable solutions in the face of challenges. We’re devoted to sharing the latest information and helping you navigate disruption as we continue to monitor the situation closely. Stay informed by bookmarking this blog for quick and convenient access. If you have questions or need assistance, our support team is ready to help. 

2024 Updates

12/13/24

“It is my view, and the view of the FMCS, that the parties are at an impasse,” said 

Canadian federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon in a statement earlier today. The Labour Minister is now sending the labor dispute between CUPW and Canada Post to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) in an effort to resume Canada Post operations and get striking CUPW workers back to work. The resolution of the strike now requires CIRB to agree with MacKinnon’s assertion that the negotiations are at a standstill.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR SHIPPERS?

Despite recent movements, this situation is still ongoing. Canada Post customers still cannot ship or print labels at this time, and will not be able to do so until an official announcement has been made. 

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?

If the CIRB agrees, MacKinnon says the Labour Relations Board will order Canada Post, and all employees represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, to resume operations and extend the terms of existing collective agreements until May 2025. 

Canada Post announced that they are reviewing the Minister’s announcement to prepare to participate as the situation progresses and comply with the directive. 
To stay updated on this developing story, check this blog or read the latest CUPW negotiation updates.

12/09/24

Effective, December 6, 2024, we are temporarily unable to deliver to certain postal codes in Canada due to the CUPW strike, as our network relies on Canada Post for delivery to these destinations. Customers should refrain from shipping to these areas through GlobalPost. We continue to accept shipments to Canada outside of these destinations. For the list of impacted postal codes, please contact our support team.

12/06/24

On November 27, 2024, USPS announced a temporary suspension of all Canada-bound shipments, across all mail classes, effective November 29, 2024, in response to the ongoing CUPW strike.

We recognize the impact these disruptions may have on your shipments. Shipments already in transit to Canada through USPS will be delayed. To continue shipping to Canada, we offer a variety of services, including GlobalPost Standard, Economy, and Plus, to support you during this time.

Regarding the CUPW strike, the situation is still evolving. On December 1st, Canada Post presented CUPW with a comprehensive framework in the hope of reaching negotiated agreements.

The post Navigating Shipping Challenges During the CUPW Strike appeared first on GlobalPost.

With so many different fees and rules, international shipping can often feel like being lost in a maze–but it doesn’t have to. In this blog, we’ll break down:

• The differences between de minimis thresholds, tariffs, and duties
• How they affect your bottom line
• Practical ways to stay compliant and reduce customer churn

What Exactly are Tariffs?

Simply put: Tariffs are fees governments place on imported goods. They’re different from duties, which are fixed and based on product value. Tariffs can shift quickly based on trade policy and economic strategy.

Why they matter? Tariffs can directly raise costs, and if you don’t factor them in, your profit margins and customer experience suffer.

What does De Minimis mean?

The term “de minimis” refers to a threshold value for imported goods below which duties and tariffs are waived. This means that if your shipment’s value falls under the de minimis threshold, your customer won’t have to pay these additional costs. This can be a significant advantage for sellers shipping small, low-value items, from small to medium-sized businesses selling t-shirts, to large businesses. 

“De minimis” is the term for a value limit on imported goods—if your shipment falls below that amount, duties and tariffs don’t apply. That means your customer won’t have to pay extra fees. It can be a big plus for anyone shipping lower-cost items, whether you’re a small t-shirt brand or a bigger company moving lots of products.

Global Differences: Navigating Varying De Minimis Thresholds

Keep in mind that de minimis thresholds aren’t the same everywhere—they can vary a lot depending on the country. Some countries have a pretty high threshold, but in some places it’s much lower, or there might not be one at all. That’s why it’s super important to do your homework and check the rules for each country you’re shipping to.

Duties vs. Taxes: Understanding the Distinction

People often use “duties” and “taxes” like they mean the same thing, but they’re actually different:

• Duties are fees applied for imported goods, usually based on what the item is and how much it’s worth.
• Taxes, like Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST), are broader—they apply to both imported and domestically made items.

Both duties and tariffs fall under what’s called indirect taxes.

Knowing the difference helps you stay on top of your costs and explain things clearly to your customers.

Calculate Costs with Our Duty and Tax Calculator

To simplify the process of estimating these costs for you and your customers, we highly recommend using our Duty and Tax Calculator. This tool can help you quickly determine the potential duties and taxes associated with your shipments, allowing you to provide accurate pricing on your products, with no sneaky fees. All you need to know is the correct HS code for each item you’re shipping. To make international shipping easier, we also offer a free HS code lookup tool!

How This Affects Your Bottom Line

Tariffs, duties, and de minimis thresholds can have a real impact on your shipping costs. If you don’t factor them in, your customers might get stuck with surprise charges, and that can lead to returned packages, unhappy buyers, and lost sales. To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re calculating all the potential costs upfront and keeping your customers in the loop.

Tips for Staying Compliant

Want to avoid delays and headaches at customs? Here are some simple steps that can help:

• Use the right product codes: Make sure your items are properly classified using the correct HS (Harmonized System) codes.
  
• Get your paperwork right: Always include accurate and complete customs documents—things like commercial invoices and packing slips.
  
• Stay in the know: Customs rules and tariffs can change, so check in regularly with the latest updates for the countries you ship to.
  
• Team up with pros: A solid shipping partner who knows international logistics can save you a lot of trouble.

No Surprises for Your Customers with GlobalPost Plus

Nobody likes surprise fees—especially your customers. One of the biggest reasons packages get returned or reviews go south is unexpected duties or taxes on delivery. That’s where GlobalPost Plus comes in.

With GlobalPost Plus, all duties and taxes are paid upfront (it’s called Delivered Duty Paid or DDP), so your customers won’t owe a thing when their package arrives. It’s a smoother, more transparent experience—and it makes a big difference in customer satisfaction and loyalty.

By understanding how tariffs, duties, and de minimis thresholds work—and using tools like our Duty and Tax Calculator and HS Classification Tool—you can take the guesswork out of cross-border shipping and grow your business with confidence.

The post What to Know About Tariffs, Duties & De Minimis  appeared first on GlobalPost.

What Is a Tax ID, and Why Is It Important?

A tax ID, issued by a country’s tax authority, serves as a unique identifier for businesses or individuals. Many countries require these numbers for international shipping to enforce customs regulations, streamline taxation, and verify legal compliance. Having the correct tax ID on file helps expedite customs processing and reduces the risk of shipment delays that could impact customer relationships.

Why Accurate Tax ID Information Matters

• Prevents delays and extra costs: Incorrect or missing tax IDs can cause serious delays, unexpected fees, or even return-to-sender situations. Customs authorities rely on tax IDs to verify shipment details, and discrepancies can lead to added costs.
• Reduces the risk of fines and holds: Some regions enforce strict penalties for missing or incorrect tax IDs. Shipping goods without the required Economic Operations Registration and Identification (EORI) or Value Added Tax (VAT) ID, for example, could result in a compliance hold, which halts the package and may incur fines.
• Improves customer satisfaction: When deliveries arrive on time without surprises, customers are more likely to view your business positively and return for future purchases.
• Supports legal compliance and customer trust: Tax ID requirements are often legally mandated, and adhering to these rules protects your business from legal risks while building customer trust.

Country-Specific Tax ID Requirements

Tax ID rules vary by country, and staying informed on these requirements is crucial for smooth shipping. Here’s a quick overview of major regions and their specific needs:

United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom requires an EORI number for businesses importing goods. Additionally, a VAT ID is often necessary for business shipments, especially for sellers in or outside the UK dealing with commercial goods. For shipments from the UK to Northern Ireland a UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) is required.

Mexico: Here’s what you need to know:

• Tariff Increases and Import Restrictions (Effective Dec. 20, 2024):
  • Tariffs on finished textiles increased to 35% (from 20-25%) and textile inputs to 15% (from 10%).
  • Temporary imports of certain textiles under the IMMEX Program (e.g., clothing, and blankets) are now prohibited.
  • Impacts cross-border e-commerce strategies (e.g., using Section 321 or avoiding U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods).
• Tax ID Requirement (Effective Jan. 1, 2025):
  • Commercial shipments entering Mexico must include a Recipient Tax ID (or personal ID if no Tax ID exists).
  • Exemption for Postal Shipments: USPS confirmed postal shipments are excluded, pending formal communication from SEPOMex/UPU.
  • Temporary Exemption: A 6-month grace period is available, but shippers must submit a written request to qualify.

Brazil: Brazil requires a Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas (CPF) for individual shipments or a Cadastro Nacional da Pessoa Jurídica (CNPJ) for business shipments. It’s important to note that these numbers are associated with the recipient and are essential for processing imports through Brazilian customs.

United States: Generally, tax IDs aren’t mandatory for importing goods into the U.S. unless required by the shipper or recipient. However, providing an Employer Identification Number (EIN) can help facilitate customs.

European Union: Here’s what you need to know:

• EORI Number
  • Required for most EU countries, primarily B2B shipments.
• Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS)
  • Simplifies VAT payments for goods under €150.
  • Covers VAT for all 27 EU countries.
  • Removes the need for separate VAT numbers.
• Country-Specific VAT IDs
  • VAT numbers for individual EU countries.
  • For local business within an EU country.
  • For VAT compliance when IOSS doesn’t apply.

Canada: Canada often mandates a Business Number (BN) for commercial shipments, enabling efficient customs and tax management by Canadian authorities.

Asia-Pacific (e.g., China, Japan): Countries in this region may require specific tax or VAT IDs for goods entering the country. These requirements can vary based on product type and shipment purpose.

Germany: Germany mandates an EORI number for businesses importing goods from outside the EU. Additionally, a VAT ID may be required for certain imports, particularly those intended for resale or commercial purposes.

Saudi Arabia: Shipments to Saudi Arabia typically require a VAT ID number for businesses, as well as a personal ID number for individual shipments. Compliance with these IDs is crucial due to the country’s strict import regulations.

Each country’s approach reflects its unique trade policies, so working with a reliable shipping partner can be invaluable for navigating these varying requirements.

Staying Updated on Tax ID Requirements

As international tax laws change frequently, it’s essential to keep up with the latest requirements. Here are a few strategies:

• Choose a Shipping Platform with Regulatory Expertise: Platforms like GlobalPost offer up-to-date guidance on tax ID requirements across different countries, simplifying the management of international shipments.
• Stay Informed on Policy Changes: Following global trade updates and using resources such as GlobalPost can help you stay on top of shifting tax policies that may impact your business.

Final Thoughts

Meeting tax ID requirements isn’t just about filling in another form—it’s about ensuring compliance, enabling efficient trade, and delivering a smooth customer experience. By focusing on these details, you set your ecommerce brand up for global success and customer loyalty.

The post Understanding Tax ID Requirements for Cross-Border Shipping appeared first on GlobalPost.

What is an undervalued good in international shipping?

Before we examine what you can do to avoid undervaluing a good, you need to know what this term means. 

An undervalued good is any item declared on customs documents at a value lower than its actual price. This means key information used to determine the market value of the shipment is inaccurate. Valuing an item correctly is key to following customs regulations. It also helps you avoid complications during the clearance process, and ensures you pay any necessary tariffs before your shipment arrives at its destination. 

What happens if I undervalue my items?

When you under-declare the value of your items, or categorise them incorrectly with Harmonized Shipping (HS) codes, you risk legal penalties, including fines, and even the potential seizure of your shipments. Repeat failure to value items correctly could also create bad relationships with customs officials, potentially leading to package delays in the future. 

How do I value my items correctly to comply with international shipping laws?

There are several things to keep in mind before you ship a package internationally in order to comply with international shipping laws and avoid hold-ups at customs. Across the board, you must make sure all documentation, reporting, and relevant information is accurate and clear. 

Please consider the accuracy and clarity of the following items:

• Package Value Reporting: Declare the true market value of items, including the product price (at the time of sale), shipping, and insurance
• Customs Documentation: Quantity, product description, selling channel URL, tax ID’s
• Recipient Information: Full name, company name if applicable, address, valid phone number

When assessing accurate package value reporting, you must make sure that the product price, shipping, and insurance information matches the actual transaction value on all documents. 

It is also important to make sure your item is classified correctly. To ensure proper classification and make sure you’re paying the appropriate tariffs, always use the correct HS codes. These are used to bypass language barriers and streamline international shipping. Merchants can use GlobalPost’s free HS Code Lookup Tool to ensure precise classification.

Real-life example

You offer a $30 monthly subscription box with skincare products. One month, the box includes a $15 moisturizer and a $10 cleanser, totaling $25 in product value.

What to do: The product value should reflect the paid subscription value of $30, as that’s the value amount the customer paid for the box, even if the actual enclosed item value is $25.

Contact our support team 

At GlobalPost, we appreciate your attention to this matter and your cooperation in ensuring future shipments include accurate and complete customs declaration details.

If you have any questions or require further clarification regarding shipment compliance, please do not hesitate to contact our GlobalPost Support Team at info@goglobalpost.com or (888) 899-1255.

The post How to Determine the Value of Goods for Streamlined International Shipping appeared first on GlobalPost.