How to ship a package internationally from the US
Quick answer: to ship a package abroad from the US: 1) check that your item is allowed in the destination country, 2) pack it securely, 3) weigh and measure it, 4) complete an electronic customs declaration with an accurate description and value, 5) choose a service (USPS, UPS, FedEx or DHL), and 6) print the label and drop off or schedule a pickup. The recipient may have to pay import duties and taxes.
Step by step
1. Check what is allowed
Every country has its own prohibited and restricted items. Common restrictions include:
- Lithium batteries (especially loose ones)
- Perfume, nail polish and other flammable items
- Alcohol, tobacco and vaping products
- Medicines and supplements
- Food, seeds, plants and animal products
- Cash, gift cards and jewelry (often restricted or limited in value)
Check the country’s entry on your carrier’s website before you pack.
2. Pack for a long trip
International parcels are handled many times. Use a sturdy new box, wrap items individually, fill empty space and tape all seams. Put a copy of the addresses inside the box.
3. Weigh and measure
Carriers charge by actual or dimensional weight, and many international forms use kilograms and centimeters. Use our pounds to kilograms and ounces to grams converters.
4. Fill in the customs declaration
For USPS, the customs form is completed online (PS Form 2976-R) and printed with your label. Private carriers use a commercial invoice for business shipments. You will need:
| Field | Tip |
|---|---|
| Sender and recipient details | Include the recipient’s phone number |
| Contents description | Be specific: “cotton t-shirt”, not “clothing” or “gift” |
| Quantity, weight and value of each item | Declare the real value |
| Type of shipment | Gift, merchandise, documents, returned goods, sample |
| HS tariff code | Recommended, and required for many business shipments |
| Country of origin | Where the item was made |
Undervaluing items or labeling them as a gift to avoid duties is illegal and can get the package seized or delayed.
Commercial exports valued over $2,500 per Schedule B number generally need an Electronic Export Information (EEI) filing.
5. Choose a service
| Carrier | Good for |
|---|---|
| USPS (Priority Mail International, First-Class Package International) | Small, light parcels at lower cost; delivered by the destination postal service |
| UPS / FedEx / DHL Express | Fast, well-tracked delivery and business shipments; higher cost; can prepay duties |
See USPS vs UPS vs FedEx for more on choosing.
6. Address it correctly
Write the address in the destination country’s format with the country name in capitals on the last line. Postal code formats vary; look them up in our world postal codes directory. See also how to address an envelope.
Duties and taxes
Most countries charge import duty and VAT or GST above a threshold that varies by country. By default the recipient pays on delivery (DDU / DAP). With express carriers you can often choose to pay them yourself (DDP), which avoids surprises for the recipient.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to ship internationally? For small, light packages it is usually USPS. For heavier or urgent parcels, compare express carriers.
How long does international shipping take? Roughly 1 to 5 business days for express services and 6 to 20 or more for postal services, plus customs time.
Do I need a customs form for documents? USPS requires a customs form for anything containing goods. Documents-only shipments have simpler rules; check with your carrier.
Rules and prices change. Check your carrier and the destination country for current requirements.