When you select GlobalPost Plus for your packages, we directly coordinate with the destination country’s customs office to pre-clear your shipment before transit. This means they’ll clear customs in advance of arrival in the destination country. Our process helps expedite the delivery process, allowing the shipment to be quickly delivered to the buyer. However, the benefits of GlobalPost Plus don’t stop there. 

How DDP benefits your business 

GlobalPost Plus is a DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service, meaning taxes and duties are paid by the shipper. This ensures a better customer experience. Customers appreciate knowing the total cost upfront and avoiding unexpected charges upon delivery. 

Shipments that arrive without duties paid face a high rate of refusal or abandonment, as unhappy consumers refuse to pay the additional costs. When customers refuse a package, the seller usually has to pay the return shipping fees to get the package back. Also, if duties and taxes aren’t included in the website checkout, there’s a higher chance of cart abandonment. Including duties/taxes as a shipping option can lead to a much higher conversion rate.

With GlobalPost Plus, you’ll enjoy a streamlined customs clearance process that can expedite delivery. Additionally, GlobalPost Plus leverages our last-mile carrier network to find the best carrier for your shipments, so you get efficiency and value with every shipment. 

Features of GlobalPost Plus

GlobalPost Plus offers a range of additional benefits and free features to enhance your shipping experience. For example, door-to-door tracking allows both you and your customers to track shipments throughout transit. Also, there’s no need to print customs forms with any of our services. Other features of GlobalPost Plus include: 

• Global address verification 
• Free duties and tax calculator
• Free phone and email support
• Free HS Code Classification Service
• Free coverage included up to $200 plus the cost of the label
• And more…

Save with SmartSaver

Are you shipping more than five international packages a day? If so, you may qualify for discounts through one of our SmartSaver programs. You’ll need to consolidate your packages before sending them to our processing facility, but there’s no need to pre-sort packages by destination. Eligible customers can save up to 30% with SmartSaver, so it’s worth a couple of extra steps. Contact us at info@goglobalpost.com to learn more.

Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, GlobalPost provides seamless international shipping. We handle the complexities of international shipping, allowing you to focus on what matters most: growing your business. From tariff codes to duties and taxes, GlobalPost makes international shipping as easy and affordable as local.

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There simply isn’t an easier way to ship to Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. Whether you’re a seasoned shipper sending hundreds of parcels a day or an ecommerce merchant looking to start expanding your business globally, you can enjoy true hassle-free shipping with GlobalPost Go.

Benefits of GlobalPost Go 

GlobalPost Go is available for all packages up to 2 lbs. and works like other GlobalPost services. Simply attach your printed label to the outside of your package. Then, drop off or schedule a pickup with any USPS location for no additional charge. Once we receive your parcel, we’ll take care of the sorting and sending. No printed customs forms are required. Other benefits of GlobalPost Go include: 

• Door-to-door tracking
• Global address verification 
• No residential delivery fees
• Delivery in 6-10 business days 
• No dimensional weight charges
• Free HS Code Classification Service
• No cost for returns if the item can’t be delivered
• No requirement to use specific box types if under a specific size* 
• Up to $200 in included coverage against loss or damage, plus shipping costs

* Maximum size of 24” length, combined  ≤ 36” (L + W + H) 

International Shipping Made Simple 

GlobalPost Go offers a hassle-free and affordable solution for businesses to ship internationally to Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. With its all-inclusive flat rates, transparent pricing, and convenient features, GlobalPost Go can help you streamline your international shipping process and improve customer satisfaction. Start shipping internationally with GlobalPost Go today!

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GlobalPost isn’t just another carrier; it’s a comprehensive solution designed to simplify the complexities of international shipping. We empower businesses to reach customers in over 220 countries and territories. And that’s why we’re excited to announce that GlobalPost is now making our services available to Canada-based merchants. Let’s dive into what sets GlobalPost apart and how it can revolutionize the international shipping experience for your Canada-based business. 

The Unmatched Benefits of GlobalPost 

GlobalPost offers invaluable tools to refine the international shipping process. For example, there’s no need to go through the hassle of printing customs forms; we’ll assign the correct customs documentation for you based on the information provided. GlobalPost will even add the HS code for your shipment. You can also search for five HS codes daily with our free HS Classification Tool. 

Along with hassle-free customs documentation, GlobalPost includes transit times of 6-10 business days. This way, packages reach your customers more efficiently. We also offer door-to-door tracking, so you and your customers can monitor the progress of your parcels throughout transit. Additionally, our global address verification ensures your packages are delivered to the right address. 

GlobalPost can be used for shipments weighing up to 11kg to the United States and 25kg to all other international destinations, giving flexibility to businesses of all sizes. We also understand that peace of mind is priceless. That’s why GlobalPost includes up to $100 in coverage for lost or damaged packages plus the shipping costs. You can rest easy knowing your shipments are protected with us.

How to Ship with GlobalPost

How exactly does GlobalPost work? It’s easy: 

1. Print and Prepare: Print and label individual packages as normal. 

2. Drop Off: Head to any Canada Post location nationwide, and drop off your packages. 

3. Streamlined Processing: Once we receive your package, we’ll sort and add all the needed customs documentation. We’ll handle the logistics, so you can focus on growing your business. 

4. Full Visibility: You and your customers will receive door-to-door tracking for available shipments. Track your parcels in real time and enjoy knowing your shipments are in good hands.

Having a reliable shipping partner is essential for businesses looking to thrive in the global marketplace. With our extensive reach, innovative features, and integration with Canada Post, GlobalPost makes international shipping easy for Canadian shippers. Whether you’re sending parcels to bustling metropolises or remote corners of the globe, GlobalPost has you covered.

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Introducing Enhanced Tracking Features

We understand the importance of seamless tracking for you and your valued customers. That’s why we are thrilled to unveil the latest enhancements to our tracking page, designed to elevate your tracking experience.

1. Final-Mile Carrier Name and Tracking Number:

Now at your fingertips! Access crucial information effortlessly, as we introduce the inclusion of final-mile carrier names and tracking numbers.

2. Highlighted Major Tracking Events:

Stay informed with a glance! We’ve implemented a feature that highlights major tracking events, ensuring you can easily follow your shipment’s progress throughout its journey.

3. Streamlined Interface for Easy Tracking:

We understand the challenge of deciphering complex tracking events. Our revamped tracking page now offers a more user-friendly interface, providing enhanced visibility. This means your customers receive updates with utmost ease.

We believe these upgrades will not only simplify your tracking process but also empower you to keep your customers in the loop effectively. 

Untrackable vs trackable services 

Let’s discuss the differences between untrackable and trackable services before going into GlobalPost services. Untrackable services don’t have a tracking number and include things like postcards and letters. Additionally, if you lose the tracking number for a service, you won’t be able to track a shipment. 

On the other hand, trackable services come with a tracking number. For example, GlobalPost International Economy comes with free door-to-country tracking. Other services like GlobalPost International Standard and GlobalPost Plus each include door-to-door tracking. 

GlobalPost International Economy tracking

GlobalPost International Economy can be used for packages up to 4.4 pounds, and the transit time is 10-14 days. GlobalPost International Economy also includes door-to-country tracking, so you can track your package until it leaves US customs. The last update listed will be when your package is leaving the country. 

GlobalPost International Standard tracking 

GlobalPost International Standard packages can weigh up to 70 pounds, and the transit time is 8-12 days. GlobalPost International Standard also includes door-to-door tracking, so you can track your package as it moves in transit. This tracking method will show when your package arrives at its destination. 

GlobalPost Plus tracking

GlobalPost Plus is a Delivered Duty Paid service where the sender pays the taxes and duties instead of the person receiving the package. GlobalPost Plus allows you to send packages weighing up to 66 pounds to Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, and the U.K. The transit time is 4-8 days, depending on the destination, and door-to-door tracking is available.

Shipping software tracking 

GlobalPost partners with shipping platforms like ShipStation, so you can use our services in your current shipping process. ShipStation customers can view past order information including tracking numbers on the Shipments grid for convenience. This way, your business can track GlobalPost orders on the same page as orders to keep your workflow organized.

Tracking a shipment with GlobalPost

Merchants can track up to 35 shipments at a time. All you’ll need to do is to separate each shipment’s tracking number with a space. For help tracking shipments or any other questions, please reach out to our support team at (888) 899‑1255 through our contact form. Our team is available Monday-Friday from 6am-6pm PT. GlobalPost is here to offer support to your business however we can.

Knowing how to track GlobalPost shipments is essential. Customers will appreciate it when you’re able to answer questions about tracking shipments. We find the best route for your shipment throughout transit and use over 250 parameters for real-time tracking. This keeps shipping with GlobalPost affordable and modernized. International shipping shouldn’t be a barrier for your business. Let GlobalPost help you ship across the world. 

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What is consolidation?

Before diving into the benefits of the SmartSaver program, let’s take a step back. What is consolidation? Shipping consolidation consists of individually packaging orders and then placing them in a larger box. After the single box is prepared for shipping, it’s either dropped off or picked up by a carrier to begin its journey. 

How does SmartSaver work?

If your business ships a minimum of five international packages daily, it qualifies for GlobalPost’s SmartSaver program. This program operates on consolidation principles, offering potential savings of up to 30% on shipping expenses. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process: Combine your separately packaged orders into a larger container and send them* to one of our 15 sorting facilities. Upon receiving your packages, we will organize them by country, complete all necessary customs paperwork, and proceed to ship them to their respective destinations for customs clearance and final delivery.

*Members of the SmartSaver program can also schedule pickups and drop-offs, depending on shipping volumes. Please reach out to our support team for more information. 

How are SmartSaver packages shipped?

The SmartSaver program offers three different methods for consolidation — SmartSaver Ship-In, SmartSaver Pickup, and SmartSaver Drop-Off. GlobalPost will pair your business with a representative to determine which solution is right for you. 

Additionally, our team will guide you through your selected consolidation option from start to finish. From creating individual shipment and container labels to getting your shipments to the GlobalPost processing facility, we’re here to help every step of the way. More information on the shipping options available for the SmartSaver program can be found below. 

• SmartSaver Ship-in – Consolidated packages are shipped to the GlobalPost processing facility with a container shipping label for no extra cost. 
• SmartSaver Pickup – GlobalPost picks up your consolidated shipments from the warehouse and transports them to the closest processing facility on the same day.
• SmartSaver Drop-off – Your carrier of choice ships consolidated shipments to the GlobalPost processing facility.

Enabling the SmartSaver program 

GlobalPost is available as a carrier through select shipping platforms like Stamps.com, ShipStation, and ShipEngine, meaning our international services can be accessed through these partners. SmartSaver is also available to use with our international services for no additional cost. This includes GlobalPost International Economy, GlobalPost International Standard, and GlobalPost Plus. If you’re interested in learning more about the SmartSaver program, reach out to info@globalpost.com.

If your business wants to cut costs, consolidation options are worth exploring. Our container labels and pickup and drop-off options make the process easy and can reduce transit times. GlobalPost provides reliable consolidation options like SmartSaver and disruption-free routing to over 45,000 shippers. And we’d love to help your business as well.

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Why should your business ship to Mexico?

The benefits of adding Mexico to your list of international shipping destinations are undeniable. Mexico is responsible for 28% of Latin America’s ecommerce revenue, contributing $38 million USD, and by 2025, Mexico is projected to have almost 78 billion online shoppers. Your business wants to be included in these numbers. And, with the US having exported over $324 billion worth of goods to Mexico in 2022, it’s more than possible to start shipping your products there. 

Streamlining customs forms 

Customs forms are one of the most important pieces of the international shipping puzzle, and it’s crucial to fill them out correctly; it streamlines the customs process, ensuring a better experience for your business and your customers. Before expanding your international offerings, check for international shipping restrictions and guidelines, as they can vary by country. The following products can’t be shipped to Mexico: 

• Alcohol 
• Weapons 
• Tobacco 
• Seeds 
• Plants 
• Precious metals
• Furs
• eCigarettes

Once you’ve confirmed your products can be shipped to destinations like Mexico, it’s time to start selling and filling out customs forms for your orders. 

HS codes and item descriptions 

Currently, only shipments traveling through or to the EU require HS codes, but it’s better to include HS codes whenever possible. As a reminder, HS codes are universally recognized numerical codes used to represent products being shipped. The good news is that as long as the information is correct on your customs forms, GlobalPost will add the correct HS code for you. If you would rather look up HS codes yourself, you can utilize our Free HS Tariff Lookup tool for up to five free daily lookups. 

Also, keep your item descriptions as accurate as possible and avoid vague wording. For example, instead of “clothes” or “shirt,” specify the style, color, and other identifying characteristics. Accurate item descriptions not only make for a more efficient customs process, but it helps GlobalPost apply the correct HS code to your shipment. 

Duties and taxes 

Determining how duties and taxes will be paid is essential. Duties and taxes are calculated based on factors like a shipment’s destination, the product you’re shipping, and the cost of the products being shipped. These fees can either be paid by the shipper or by the customer/recipient.

When shipping to Mexico, you’ll need to understand de minimus value, or the minimum threshold for taxing imported goods. If the items in your shipment are valued at over $117 USD, they will have taxes and duties applied. If the items in your shipment are valued from $40-$117, they will have taxes applied. 

Delivered Duty Paid, or DDP, is when the duties and taxes are paid by the shipper and don’t have to be paid by the customer on delivery. Delivered Duty Unpaid, or DDU, is when duties and taxes are paid by the customer when their package arrives. GlobalPost Plus includes DDP when shipping to Mexico, so you can streamline the customs process and pay the taxes and duties for customers. 

We recommend communicating how the duties and taxes will be paid to customers in advance to avoid returned packages and customer dissatisfaction. Additionally, confirm your customs information reflects who will be paying the duties and taxes to prevent any hold-ups. If you aren’t sure how to calculate the taxes and duties for your shipment, use our Duties and Taxes Calculator to estimate the cost. 

Available GlobalPost services 

GlobalPost Standard International, GlobalPost Economy International, and GlobalPost Plus can all be used when shipping to Mexico. GlobalPost Economy International shipments include door-to-country tracking and can be used for shipments weighing up to 4.4 pounds. GlobalPost Standard International and GlobalPost Plus each include door-to-door tracking and can be used for shipments up to 70 pounds and 66 pounds, respectively. More information on these services can be found in the table below. 

How GlobalPost supports shipping to Mexico 

As a business owner, we understand that you need to focus your time and energy on your business. GlobalPost provides support to all users via phone and email, so think of us as your private authority on international business. In addition to customer support, we offer up to $100 of free parcel coverage on GlobalPost Standard International shipments, plus the cost of shipping and up to $200 of free parcel coverage on GlobalPost Plus.

You can also purchase supplemental insurance, as long as the insurance cost isn’t more than the total worth of the items in your package. All insurance claims are filed through GlobalPost, so you don’t have to reach out to other providers. 

International shipping shouldn’t limit your business’s growth. GlobalPost wants to see your business successfully grow into the international marketplaces by providing you with support resources and eliminating the need for printed customs forms. Let GlobalPost help you ship around the globe!

Click here to download your copy of our “How to Ship to Mexico” guide and learn how to get started. 

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How GlobalPost supports international shippers 

International shipping doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. We understand that the focus should remain on your business, and with the help of GlobalPost, it can. If you can’t make it to the post office, GlobalPost shipments are eligible for USPS pick-up, as long as one of the other packages you would like picked up is using their Priority Mail^® service. 

Claims for lost and/or damaged packages are also filed through GlobalPost directly instead of a third party. This saves you time mailing claims documents or discussing your claim with multiple providers. If you have any questions regarding your claims or international shipping in general, our support team is available to help via phone at (888) 899‑1255, Monday- Friday from 6am – 6pm PT, and via contact form.

GlobalPost services 

GlobalPost offers merchants several different options, so you can select which service works best for your business needs. These services include GlobalPost Economy International, GlobalPost Standard International, and GlobalPost Plus. We’ve created a table highlighting all of our services below. 

Canada DDP 

GlobalPost merchants are able to prepay the taxes and duties for their customers with the help of Canada Delivery Duty Paid or DDP. Canada DDP can be used for First-Class Mail International^®, Priority Mail International^®, and Priority Mail Express International^® shipments, and the flat rate fee will vary depending on the service. The fee for First-Class Mail International^® packages is $7.95, while the fee for Priority Mail International^® and Priority Mail Express International^® is $9.95. 

One important thing to note is that shipments can’t weigh over four pounds, so weigh packages multiple times to confirm the accurate weight is entered. If packages weigh more than four pounds, it can lead to costly adjustments and/or returned packages. For more information on using Canada DDP with GlobalPost, visit our website. 

The benefits of shipping software 

Choosing a shipping software can be time-consuming. However, shipping software can help streamline your shipping process. GlobalPost currently partners with over 200 different shipping applications like ShippingEasy, ShipStation, and Stamps.com. These applications contain features like order dashboards, carrier integration, and rate comparison tools to centralize your shipping process and avoid clicking between multiple tabs. 

ShipStation

ShipStation is a shipping platform that strives to help businesses of all sizes ship their products. They keep merchants in mind and designed their platform to make shipping efficient and affordable. Whether you ship domestically or internationally, ShipStation wants to help your business succeed. Integrate your marketplace or store of choice in a matter of clicks, and start shipping. 

Shipping software basics 

Most platforms like ShipStation are made to grow with your business while helping you save time and money. As we mentioned earlier, a shipping software enables you to integrate stores and marketplaces to decrease the likelihood of missed orders. Many shipping softwares also provide customers with pre-negotiated and discounted shipping rates, so you can enjoy affordable carrier options. Most of these platforms include rate calculators, so you can compare rates in real-time to find the best option for your business. 

A shipping software like ShipStation also includes features to help with international shipping. International shipments require information like VAT and IOSS numbers on customs forms to identify how duties and taxes will be calculated and/or paid. With shipping softwares, these numbers can be saved and later selected from a drop-down menu or another selection tool. This way, you don’t have to manually enter VAT and IOSS information for each international order and save time on shipping. 

GlobalPost is working to modernize and simplify international shipping for growing businesses. Your international shipping workflow should be as easy and efficient as your domestic shipping workflow, and that’s why we offer our support throughout the entire process. We even partner with the likes of ShipStation, so you can take your international shipping to the next level. Enjoy hassle-free international shipping today with GlobalPost.

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How does CARM change shipping to Canada?

CARM will mostly impact how duties and taxes are paid for B2B shipments to Canada and when packages can be given to recipients. These changes are*: 

• Shipments will no longer be able to be released from customs brokers via surety bonds aka Release Prior to Payment (RPP). 
• Merchants shipping to Canada will need to pay duties and taxes for all goods and provide some type of “financial security” in advance through cash or a surety bond.

For more information about CARM, visit the CARM Client Portal website. 

*Note: These apply to US brands shipping to Canada and Canadian retailers, as well as third parties. 

Shipping to Canada through GlobalPost 

Whether you plan to ship domestically or internationally, including shipping insurance adds extra security for your business and customers. GlobalPost Standard International and GlobalPost Plus each offer insurance, with GlobalPost Standard International including up to $100 in free coverage and GlobalPost Plus including up to $200 in free coverage. Both services also include coverage of the shipping cost. 

GlobalPost merchants can purchase additional insurance from providers, as long as the insurance cost isn’t worth more than the total value of your shipment. Insurance claims are filed directly through GlobalPost, so there’s no need to worry about contacting a third party. To file a claim with GlobalPost, fill out our claim form.*

*Note: Claims need to be submitted within 90 days of the package’s ship date. More information and guidelines for the GlobalPost claims process can be found on our website. 

Canada DDP 

GlobalPost allows merchants to prepay a flat fee through our service called Canada Delivery Duty Paid, or DDP, so customers don’t have to pay duties and taxes upon arrival. This service can be used with Priority Mail International^®, First-Class Mail International^®, and Priority Mail Express International^® packages. 

Priority Mail International^® and Priority Mail International Express^® shipments have a flat fee of $9.95, and First-Class Mail International^® shipments have a flat fee of $7.95. Canada DDP can only be used for shipments up to four pounds, so confirm your package’s weight before using the service. Packages over this weight limit can be returned and/or you can be issued expensive adjustments. 

CARM might be a new addition to shipping to Canada, but GlobalPost is here to take the complexities out of international shipping. We want to see your business grow and expand into global marketplaces, and that’s why we provide HS code resources, customer support, and insurance options. Ship around the world with GlobalPost! 

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TL;DR – HS Codes are numerical values assigned to products to bypass language barriers and streamline international shipping. They’re now required for all shipments going through or to countries in the EU. GlobalPost merchants can look up their own HS codes, or GlobalPost will automatically enter HS codes based on the information provided. 

Recent HS codes update

In the spring of 2023, HS codes became required for all shipments moving through and going to the EU. However, a grace period was established through July to allow shippers to adjust to these changes. Now that the grace period has concluded, failure to include HS codes on your shipments could result in penalties and returned shipments. This could have negative impacts on your business, causing loss of time, money, and customer satisfaction. Understanding where to find HS codes and how to incorporate them into your customs forms is now more important than ever. 

How to find HS codes 

Back in 1952, the World Customs Organization (WCO) was founded to help streamline the customs process. The WCO is responsible for creating HS codes as a way to improve communication between customs offices and keep international shipping as safe and structured as possible. 

While the WCO doesn’t offer a full list of HS codes to the public, they do offer a list of resources, including email addresses for HS codes officials, to aid in your quest for finding the correct HS codes. However, GlobalPost offers free tools to keep merchants from having to chase down HS codes on their own. 

As long as the information entered with your customs forms is correct, GlobalPost will automatically include the correct HS code for your shipment. If you would rather search for and enter an HS code manually, you can use our Free HS Tariff Lookup tool for up to five daily searches. 

How to read HS codes 

Each HS code consists of three different sections: a chapter, a heading, and a subheading. The chapter identifies your product, the heading classifies your product’s characteristics, and the subheading essentially combines the chapter and heading. For example, if your business ships roasted and decaffeinated coffee, the HS code for this product might be 0901.11. Let’s break this HS code down: 

• 09 would be the chapter, aka coffee
• 01 would be the heading, aka roasted and decaffeinated 
• 11 would be the subheading, aka coffee, roasted and decaffeinated

Your product would be scanned into customs as roasted and decaffeinated coffee, and therefore, handled as such by the customs officers examining your shipment. 

HS code requirements 

As we mentioned earlier, all shipments passing through or going to the EU must include an HS code within customs forms. A full list of countries requiring HS codes can be found below as well as on the USPS website.*

Additionally, vague and generic descriptions will no longer be accepted. These include descriptions like “clothing” or “food” that don’t provide specifics about your items. On a similar note, leaving the description blank or writing “N/A” or “none” is also unacceptable. Here are a few examples of acceptable vs. unacceptable descriptions for products: 

*All information in this section is courtesy of USPS.

Benefits of HS codes 

While it may seem like additional work, HS codes are beneficial to the international shipping process. HS codes are universally recognized, so they help to bypass language barriers between customs offices and prevent merchants from having to try to translate descriptions into other languages. If a merchant isn’t fluent in their destination country’s language, this can lead to miscommunications and inaccurate translations, which can cause delays and potential penalties. Overall, HS codes provide an easier and faster customs process for both merchants and customers. 

How GlobalPost supports international shippers 

At first glance, HS codes may seem like yet another piece of information you’re required to enter when shipping internationally. However, the inclusion of HS codes on customs forms helps your package move through customs without any complications. 

GlobalPost strives to make hassle-free international shipping a possibility for all growing businesses. That’s why we handle HS codes with the click of a button, so you can continue focusing on your business. GlobalPost uses the information included on customs forms to identify and add HS codes to your customs forms and offers merchants our Free HS Tariff Lookup tool. 

Additionally, GlobalPost support is free for all merchants, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have along the way. Contact us via email or by phone at 888-899-1255 from 6AM-6PM CT, Monday through Friday. Let us help you through any shipping challenge, and think of us as your private authority on international shipping. 

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GLOBALPOST INTERNATIONAL SERVICES

The first step in international shipping is deciding which carrier services are the best fit for your needs. GlobalPost’s international offerings include GlobalPost International Economy, GlobalPost International Standard, and GlobalPost Plus. Each service has its own advantages, so you can easily select the right service for your package. The features included for GlobalPost International Economy, GlobalPost International Standard, and GlobalPost Plus can be found in the table below. 

*Note: Weights are rounded up to the nearest pound, so anything over these weights will be considered too heavy for the service. 

INTERNATIONAL TRACKING

GlobalPost shipments have either door-to-door tracking or door-to-country tracking. How do these tracking options differ? Door-to-door tracking is when a shipment can be tracked throughout its entire journey. Door-to-country tracking is where a package can be shipped until it reaches US customs. 

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING RESTRICTIONS

International shipping has more restrictions than domestic shipping, so it’s crucial to know which international regulations need to be followed. GlobalPost adheres to the same international shipping restrictions as USPS, so anything deemed illegal or hazardous to ship by mail in the United States, or in the destination country, will not be accepted. 

Customs forms 

The last major component of international shipping involves the documentation or customs forms required with your shipments. Customs forms provide the information about the items you are shipping and are what customs officials reference when importing them.

One of the biggest benefits of using GlobalPost is that you won’t need to print customs forms and attach them to shipments. We’ll generate and attach these forms at our facilities or submit them electronically for you as needed. To create these documents, GlobalPost does require you to apply customs descriptions for any item you’re sending. Luckily, we provide tools to help you declare items and search for HS codes.

What are HS codes?

Harmonized System (HS) codes are six-digit codes that identify items in order to streamline international shipping. HS codes are included on customs forms to classify an item and its attributes, material, and intended function. Being a universally recognized numerical code allows HS codes to avoid potential language barriers, helping shipments move through customs smoothly and efficiently. 

While HS codes aren’t required for all international shipments, they’re required for all shipments moving through or going to the EU. Knowing your products’ HS codes allows them to pass through customs more quickly and with fewer potentials for added penalties or duty fees. To help with international shipping, GlobalPost provides tools to streamline customs clearance. One such feature we provide helps determine HS codes to make a smoother, quicker transit. 

HS Tariff lookup tool 

 GlobalPost will add HS codes for your products based on the product description included in your customs forms. However, if you’d prefer to enter the HS codes yourself, we have a free HS Tariff lookup tool that can be used to search for up to five HS codes daily. 

Taxes and duties 

Customs duties and taxes are fees given to international shipments based on the destination country, the value of your products, and the items being shipped. Taxes and duties are paid by either the sender or receiver of the package, depending on either the service used or the options selected when generating the label. Because duties can be an added cost upon delivery, it’s good to anticipate these costs beforehand and prepare your customers and your business for any added costs. The good news is, you can calculate taxes and duties in advance with the help of our free duty calculator. 

How to pay for taxes and duties 

Duties are either prepaid or collected upon delivery and fall into one of two categories: Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU). DDP means the taxes and duties for a shipment are paid by the shipper in advance while DDU means the taxes and duties will be paid by the customer upon arrival. 

 GlobalPost offers GlobalPost Plus, a DDP service, so you can pay taxes and duties for your customers. GlobalPost Plus is available for shipments to the U.K., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Mexico up to 66 pounds. GlobalPost Plus also includes door-to-door tracking and a transit time of 4-8 days, so customers can track shipments throughout transit. 

Expanding to global markets can lead to an increase in sales, so it’s worth the investment. International shipping doesn’t require much additional work, and GlobalPost is designed to keep the process modernized and simplified. Through our network of carriers and resources, we keep international shipping affordable and accessible. Grow your business with the help of GlobalPost.

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