Expanding your business to an international level is a big step, and it's important to do it right. To help you with this process, here are the top 10 tips for international shipping that you should be aware of. All products that you ship must go through customs, so it's important to identify any restricted or perishable items. Shipping insurance can cover the costs of any damaged, lost, or destroyed items, which is especially useful when shipping long distances.
It may also cover the loss of stolen goods. Depending on the shipping company you use, customs information may be included on the shipping label. International shipping is more expensive due to a combination of factors, such as import duties, more complicated logistics, and the high cost of fuel to ship goods overseas by air or sea. It's essential for a store to have a shipping policy that clearly states who pays the duties and taxes in order to build trust and make a sale with a new buyer.
When using postal carriers such as USPS or Canada Post, some international shipping services include insurance in the price of shipping. Shipping rates are the fees charged by shipping companies for the international delivery of their products and for other freight taxes. When shipping by air, use less packaging as it is safer, but use more when shipping by sea. International shipments tend to take longer than domestic shipments due to the long distances traveled, the multiple changes between different carriers, and possible delays at customs.
First, you'll need to identify the countries and regions you'll be shipping to and the products you'll be shipping. Call the carrier with whom you are shipping and ask them if the product you are going to ship will be accepted in the destination country. A tool like Free Shipping & Hello Bar can help you promote your shipments and rates to a global audience.
