Easy International Shipping: Your Friendly Guide

Expanding your business into global markets is an exciting opportunity. It’s a chance to connect with new customers, broaden your reach, and ultimately grow your business.

However, anyone who’s been through the process will tell you that understanding what international shipping is and how to manage it isn’t as simple as boxing up your products and sending them off. It involves international laws, customs regulations, import taxes, and making sure that all the paperwork is in order.

The good news? 

Once you’ve got the right processes in place, it’s much easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about shipping overseas so you can expand your horizons with ease.

 

1. Check Restrictions and Duties

The first step is to check that your products can be legally shipped to the destination. Every country has its own set of rules, which means that some goods may be restricted, require a licence, or be prohibited entirely.

To be certain, the best approach is to check the destination’s website. However, to get you started, we’ve created a general list of items that are typically restricted or prohibited for export and import:

Item	Status	Details
Aerosol Sprays	Not Permitted	Due to flammability and pressure-related risks.
Alcoholic Beverages	Licensed Only	Must comply with alcohol export/import laws and require a valid permit.
Ammunition	Banned	Explosive nature makes it illegal to ship abroad.
Batteries (Lithium-ion)	Restricted	Special packaging and labelling are mandatory due to fire hazards.
Biological Samples	Controlled	Shipment is allowed only with proper health certifications and licences.
Chemical Products	Forbidden	Hazardous substances (e.g., corrosives, toxins) are not allowed.
Cigarettes	Generally Prohibited	Strict health regulations limit their export/import.
Explosives	Completely Banned	High detonation risk makes them illegal.
Firearms	Heavily Restricted	Only permissible under strict conditions with appropriate permits.
Flammable Liquids	Not Allowed	High fire risk prevents transport.
Gas Cylinders	Prohibited	Explosion hazards make them unacceptable.
Lighters	Not Allowed	Contain flammable substances that are unsafe for air transport.
Live Animals	Not Permitted	Animal welfare concerns generally prevent their transportation.
Magnets	Special Handling	Must be packed to avoid interference with aircraft navigation and electronics.
Medical Devices	Regulated	Export requires compliance with health and safety standards, including possible licensing.
Perfumes and Aftershave	Regulated	Special handling needed due to alcohol content; some shipments may require documentation.
Perishable Goods	Restricted	Exported under strict conditions, often not viable for cross-border transit.
Poisonous Substances	Forbidden	Toxic nature prevents export.
Radioactive Materials	Banned	Extremely hazardous.
Rough Diamonds	Regulated by Law	Must adhere to the Kimberley Process; certification is mandatory.
Toxic Chemicals	Prohibited	Environmental and health risks make them unsuitable for export.
Weapons	Highly Regulated	Export allowed only with specific licences and strict adherence to laws.

Once you’ve confirmed that you can ship your products, the next thing to do is factor in duties and taxes. Import duty for international shipments are costs calculated by the destination, and they will vary based on the item’s value, classification, and country of origin.

To calculate them, you need to:

• • • Understand HS Codes
      Harmonized System (HS) codes are a global system for classifying products. Each code is designed to help customs understand how much duties and taxes to apply to products. It’s really important to get the HS codes right because if you misclassify them, you may end up with incorrect charges or delays at the border.
    • Decide on DDP or DDU
      • Delivery Duty Paid (DDP): In this case, all taxes and duties would be paid at source. Businesses often prefer this option because it avoids complications with the customer. However, this also means that you must factor them into your initial cash-out calls.
      • Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU): Using this system, the buyer will be charged duties and taxes on the goods once they have been delivered. Although this can be cheaper, it is important that you advise the recipient of the costs in advance to avoid any complications.

To estimate the costs, you can use online calculators or check the destination website. However, don’t forget to include additional fees like handling charges, processing fees, and possible storage costs if there are any delays in clearance.

 

2. Choosing the Right Shipping Method

Now, it’s time to choose your logistics partner. Choosing the right international courier service is not just about getting your products from point A to point B. It’s about doing it safely, cost-effectively and securely.

Here’s a quick comparison of international courier vs. postal service vs. freight forwarders:

Option	Best For	Pros	Cons
Postal Services	Small, low-cost shipments	Cost-effective, widely accessible	Slower delivery, limited tracking
Couriers	Fast, reliable delivery	Quick, reliable, with advanced tracking	More expensive, particularly for small businesses
Freight Forwarders	Large, complex shipments	Handles logistics customs and offers cost savings on bulk	More suitable for high-volume shippers, not for small parcels

Every company has its own unique needs, and what works for one might not work for another. That’s why it’s important to think about what you and your customers are looking for before choosing a carrier. 

A few aspects you should consider are:

• Cost: Sending packages overseas can be expensive, so you should do your homework and compare the prices of different carriers. But remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best, especially if it means compromising on time or reliability.
• Delivery Speed: Carriers offer different delivery speeds to cater to different demands. If your customers expect the items to arrive fast, you might want to offer express services. While they can be pricier, they ensure your products arrive quickly, keeping the buyer happy.
• Reliability: Nothing damages your reputation faster than late deliveries or lost parcels. Do your homework – check carrier reviews and pick one that’s known for consistent, reliable service.
• Tracking Capabilities: In order to create a positive experience, ensure the carrier you select has good tracking capabilities. Plus, it means you can track it if anything goes wrong.
• Global Reach: Not all carriers operate everywhere. Make sure the carrier you choose is experienced with logistics in your target areas. 

 

3. Prepare Your Paperwork

Think of customs as the gatekeepers for anything entering and leaving a country. When you’re shipping across borders, your parcel must have the right paperwork to pass through smoothly.

You’ll need to prepare the following:

• EORI Number: If you are setting up your business to do international shipping from the UK, you will have to obtain an Economic Operator Registration Identification (EORI) number. Border patrol officials use this number to monitor the shipment. If you have not applied for one already, then it is quite easy to do so using the UK government’s website.
• Commercial Invoice: A commercial invoice is a document that will get your parcel across the border. It provides the reader with all the details about your transaction, such as what has been sold, its value, and the terms of the deal. Getting it right is essential, as it is used to calculate duties and taxes.
• Packing List: This essentially gives a detailed breakdown of everything inside the shipment, including quantities, weights, and dimensions. It is to help customs quickly confirm that what’s in the box matches what’s on the commercial invoice.
• Customs Declaration Forms (CN22/CN23): If you’re using postal services, you’ll need to fill out a declaration form for your package, which states what it is and how much it’s worth. A CN22 is for smaller, lower-value items (up to £270), while a CN23 is for larger, higher-value shipments. 
• Certificate of Origin: This document verifies where your goods were manufactured, which is key for determining if they qualify for reduced tariffs or special trade agreements. 
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: Whether your goods are travelling by sea or air, these documents serve as your contract with the carrier. They include details about who’s sending them, who’s receiving them, and the terms of the shipment. 
• Import Licence: Some items are restricted or controlled, meaning you’ll have to obtain an import licence from the destination before they can legally enter. If you think they might fall into this category, it is important to handle it early on to avoid any delays.

 

4. Pack and Label Your Shipment

Your packages are likely to go through several handling stages before reaching their final destination. To ensure that they arrive safely and on time, proper packing is key.

Here’s how to choose the right packaging:

• Use Sturdy Boxes: Make sure the boxes you choose are strong enough to secure what is inside. For heavier goods, consider using double-walled cardboard boxes.
• Cushioning: Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam to protect your items from shocks and vibrations.
• Seal Securely: Use strong packing tape to seal all seams and edges of your box so it won’t pop open during transit.
• Consider Weather Conditions: If your package will be exposed to extreme weather or shipped via freight, consider using waterproof packaging or adding plastic liners for extra protection.

Labels are just as important as the packaging itself. Here’s how to make sure your labels do their job:

Print Clearly	The recipient’s address should be printed in a clear, legible font.
Include All Details	Ensure the address is complete, including street, city, postal code, and country. Adding a phone number or email can help resolve any delivery issues.
Add a Return Address	Always include your return address to ensure the package can be returned if undeliverable.
Use Proper Labels	Attach all necessary labels, documents, or forms to the outside of the package in a visible location.
Fragile Labels	If the package contains delicate items, add “Fragile” labels to alert handlers to handle them with care.

 

5. Track and Insure Your Shipment

Tracking and insurance are essential for keeping your customers happy. By tracking the status of the shipment and safeguarding it from loss or damage, you are providing assurance to both you and your customer.

• Tracking: Opt for a service that provides reliable tracking, allowing you and the buyer to monitor the package’s journey in real-time. Sharing the tracking number immediately after dropping them not only keeps all parties informed, but in the event of delays or issues, it helps to quickly identify and address problems.
  
• Insurance: While some shipping services include basic insurance, they typically will only cover up to a certain value. As a company, you should evaluate the need for extra coverage so that you’re protected against potential losses. It’s also worth documenting the condition of your items before posting them, as this will help if you are required to file a claim.

 

6. Set up a Returns Policy

Returns are an inevitable part of e-commerce. Having a policy in place from the outset will help you minimize any surprises and provide a clear process for both you and your customers. 

When setting up your workflow, these are the factors to consider:

• Understand Local Regulations: Different countries have varying regulations regarding returns, so before you set up your policy, consult these.
• How Your Customers Process The Returns: Provide clear instructions, and to simplify the process, consider including a prepaid label. 
• Consider Collaborating with Local Partners: Working with a local partner can help manage them more efficiently, allowing shoppers to return items within their own country and, as a result, reducing costs and processing times.

 

Partner With Grabbit & Run To Ship Internationally With Ease

For businesses, international shipments are an exciting prospect. But as we all know, sending goods across borders, especially after Brexit, is anything but straightforward. That’s where we come in. At Grabbit & Run, we handle every aspect of the shipping process so you can focus on what matters most – growing your business.

From making sure your packages clear customs smoothly to keeping you up-to-date with the latest regulations and providing user-friendly tracking services, we’re here to make international shipping a breeze for both you and your customers. Need to ship valuable or sensitive documents? We’ve got tailored insurance to give you peace of mind!

Contact us today and get ready to take on the world – one shipment at a time.

 

Final Thoughts

International shipping might seem complex, but it doesn’t need to be. By following the steps in this guide, you can streamline your process, partner with the right providers, and create the documentation to ship with confidence.

 

Frequently Asked Questions