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.

GlobalPost Services That Ship to Canada

GlobalPost offers a range of services and features that make shipping to Canadian customers simpler. Regardless of what you and your customers need, GlobalPost delivers to your customers in the way you both need. 

GlobalPost Economy International

GlobalPost Economy International is an affordable option for sending small parcels (up to 4.4 lbs) internationally that is similar to USPS First Class Mail International®. Typically, it takes 10–14 days to reach the end consumer with the buyer paying for the duties and taxes upon arrival (Delivered Duties Unpaid – DDU). If you’re shipping to Canada, you should expect it to be on the lower end of this range, especially if you’re delivering to a major metro area. Additionally, you can ship to many more countries than just Canada with this service. Currently, over 220+ countries are supported. GlobalPost Economy International offers tracking into the destination country, or “Door-to-Country.” 

GlobalPost Standard International

GlobalPost Standard provides support to the same destinations as GlobalPost Economy International. However, it has more robust tracking than GlobalPost Economy thanks to “Door-to-Door” tracking. This means a package can be tracked all the way to final delivery. You can also ship much larger items since Standard supports sending parcels weighing as much as 70 lbs. Additionally, you get free coverage for any parcels valued up to $100 and packages arrive in around 6–10 days. There are other differences and similarities between these two services, including that they are both DDU services. Beyond these two services, there are other ways you can make shipping to Canada even simpler for yourself and your customers. 

GlobalPost Plus

Canada is among the US’s biggest trade partners. As such, you have a lot of streamlined options to deliver there. For instance, you can use GlobalPost Plus. GlobalPost Plus is a shipping service for parcels shipped to the UK, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands. Unlike GlobalPost Standard or Economy, this is a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service (we’ll get into that more in a minute). GlobalPost Plus provides other advantages, too, including a 5–8 delivery time and door-to-door tracking!

GlobalPost Service Comparison

Canada Delivery Duty Paid

To help reduce surprises for you and your customers, you can utilize Canada Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) to prepay all duties and taxes on USPS shipments to Canada. The rate charged depends on the service used. To use Canada DDP, parcels may not exceed 4 lbs. There are a few other restrictions to be aware of, too. Regardless, this provides a streamlined way to make shipping to Canada simple and affordable, and surprise-free. Whether you absorb these fees or add them to shipping charges, you can provide Canadian shoppers with a stress-free, convenient delivery experience. 

DDU vs. DDP

To clarify shipping options for your Canadian customers, you might encounter the terms Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). With DDU, your customers (or buyers) are responsible for paying any applicable duties, taxes, and fees upon arrival of their package, which can lead to unexpected costs and potential returns. In contrast, Delivered Duty Paid (DDP), like our GlobalPost Plus service, allows you (the shipper) to prepay these charges. This provides a transparent and surprise-free experience for your buyers, potentially increasing customer satisfaction and streamlining the delivery process.

How to Start Saving on Shipments to Canada

GlobalPost is available through many popular shipping platforms. This is the best way to ship with GlobalPost. You can find out how to create a GlobalPost label with your preferred shipping software, or find a new one. We’re on a range of shipping platforms, including ShipStation, Shippo, ShippingEasy, Stamps.com, Easyship, and many more! Open your business up to a new world of customers and savings! 

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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.

1. Complete Accurate and Detailed Documentation

Accurate and detailed documentation is crucial for smooth customs clearance. Ensure that your customs declaration is meticulously completed and includes a clear description of the goods (Ex: “Men’s Cotton T-Shirt” instead of “Shirt”), their value, and quantity. Don’t forget to include your selling channel URL and any required tax IDs to assist with identification and compliance. Any errors or omissions can lead to delays, fines, or other complications. Additionally, provide the recipient’s full name, the company name when applicable, and a valid phone number. This information will also come in handy when your parcel is out for delivery–incorrect or incomplete data can lead to non-delivery, disposal, or returns.

2. Properly Classify Your Goods

Correctly classifying goods using Harmonized System (HS) codes is essential for smooth customs clearance. HS codes determine the duties and taxes applied to shipments. Inaccurate classification can lead to delays, fines, or even seizure of goods. Merchants should use available resources such as GlobalPost’s free HS Code Lookup Tool to ensure precise classification. Accurate classification not only expedites customs processing but also helps in maintaining compliance with international trade regulations.

3. Understand and Comply with Destination Country Regulations

Understanding and complying with the specific regulations of the destination country is crucial for successful customs clearance. Each country has unique requirements regarding prohibited items and restricted goods. Ensuring compliance with these rules minimizes the risk of shipments being delayed or rejected at customs, thereby facilitating a smoother shipping process and enhancing overall efficiency. Check out our FAQs  for more information on prohibited and restricted items, or contact us if you have questions about a specific destination country.

4. Consider Prepaying Duties and Taxes

Prepaying duties and taxes can expedite customs clearance and enhance customer satisfaction. By calculating and settling these fees in advance, merchants can avoid unexpected costs and delays at customs. This proactive approach not only speeds up delivery times but also provides a transparent and hassle-free experience for customers, fostering trust and loyalty. GlobalPost makes it easy to pay taxes and duties on your international parcels. GlobalPost Plus is a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service that lets you ship parcels up to 66 lb to the world’s largest markets, including Canada, Mexico, Australia, Germany, France and the U.K. We also offer GlobalPost Go, a flat-rate shipping service for parcels up to 2 lb going to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong that’s inclusive of all taxes and duties. You can also use our free Duties & Taxes Calculator to estimate import duties and taxes for hundreds of countries worldwide.

5. Provide Accurate Valuations

Providing accurate valuations of shipped goods is crucial for customs clearance. The declared value on the commercial invoice must reflect the true market value of the items. Inaccurate valuations can lead to delays, fines, or additional scrutiny from customs authorities. Merchants should ensure all valuations are precise and well-documented to facilitate smooth processing. Accurate valuations help in avoiding complications and ensure a more efficient and transparent customs clearance process.

Experience True Hassle-Free International Shipping With GlobalPost

GlobalPost is the carrier of choice for growing businesses, designed from the ground up to make international shipping easy. Our hassle-free solutions help you reach new customers in new places. We handle the complexities so you can focus on what matters most: getting more products to more customers. From tariff codes to duties and taxes, we make global shipping as easy as local. Get in touch with our team to learn how we can help you with your international shipping needs.

Other Resources

Are you using ShipStation, Stamps.com, or ShippingEasy to create a GlobalPost label? Check out these Help Center articles for tips on how to encourage a smooth customs clearance.

• Ship Internationally on ShipStation
• Ship Internationally on Stamps.com
• Ship Internationally on ShippingEasy

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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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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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