Did you know that the world merchandise trade suffered a 27% fall in the second quarter of 2020 because of COVID-19?
However, these numbers rebounded in the third quarter which means it is the perfect time to start shipping internationally. If you don’t already get your goods out to other countries, you need to learn how to ship internationally.
Read on to learn how to ship internationally to protect merchandise and profits.
1. Complete Paperwork
Knowing how to ship internationally is important when it comes to getting the right paperwork done. Before moving shipments through any country, this step needs to be completed.
To ship internationally to or from the United States, you need a commercial invoice. This document provides sales information about the seller and the receiver. Sometimes you may need a supporting document like the Certificate of Origin.
An international shipping company that can walk you through the completion of the right forms is a good one to choose from. This can help you reduce any potential errors.
2. Accurately Fill Out Paperwork
To internationally ship the easiest way, you need to ensure paperwork is filled out right. Inaccurate documents can delay a shipment. When working on paperwork, it is vital to get down the right information.
To provide an accurate description on the paperwork, answer these questions:
- What is the shipment?
- How is it used?
- What materials is it made up of?
- Where was it created?
- What is the tariff classification?
- How many are being shipped?
- What is the price of the item(s)?
It is important to include the Harmonized System codes in the documents. This provides a reference for the classification of the product.
3. Know the Customs Laws
Whether you are doing eBay international shipping or a service like VRR, you need to know the customs laws in the importing country. All governments have their own rules you have to follow to know how to ship internationally.
Some countries have specific size and weight limits, require extra documentation or make you pay fees. The fees are usually required for partnering government agencies like the FDA in America.
4. Calculate Landed Cost
To ensure you know exactly what you are paying for, calculate the costs ahead of time. Shipping internationally often leads people to pay extra fees that they weren’t expecting.
The landed cost consists of the international shipping cost, transportation charges, taxes, and me. Duties and taxes are valued based on the goods you are shipping.
5. Ask For Help
The cheapest way to ship internationally when you have never done it before is by ensuring you get through the process correctly. If you are still unsure if you are doing something right or filling out the needed documents, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are a lot of resources out there that can help you avoid any issues.
How to Ship Internationally Explained
If you are ready to start going global with international shipping, it is important to get all of the steps down. Learning how to ship internationally is simple, but it is important to remember each country may have its own requirements. Now that you know how to get it done, start filling out your paperwork and submitting shipments!
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