International Shipping Tips

Shipping packages internationally can be tedious. Each country sets its own regulations for what can be imported and what documentation is required for customs. Even shipments to Canada and Mexico require customs documentation (what ever happened to NAFTA?). The most common customs documentation may include:

1) commercial invoice - this document details the contents of the package, including a description of the item(s), value, weight, quantity, shipper, and receiver (i.e., "consignee")

2) power of attorney - this document is signed by the shipper to give the shipping company authorization to act as the shipper's broker to get the shipment through customs

Sometimes, additional documentation is required for international shipments. To simplify the process, visit your local The UPS Store. The friendly staff will expedite your shipment to its destination with automated systems to complete most of the paperwork for you!

Keep in mind that shipping internationally with UPS is more expensive than other shipping methods. The value added services offered by UPS include:

• UPS acts as the customs broker to get your package through the customs process in the destination country.
• UPS flies the package to its destination country on its own fleet of aircraft.
• UPS delivers the package right to your receiver's door, in most cases. An agency like the Post Office turns the package over to the mail delivery system in the destination country and hopes that it will be delivered on their behalf.
• All UPS packages are trackable, insured for the first $100.00 of value, and guaranteed to be delivered when promised (pending normal customs clearance of the package).

Stop by your local The UPS Store to see how easy it is to ship packages internationally!