About International Shipping

When it comes to international shipping, you have several carriers to choose from depending on what you are shipping. Lightweight packages can ship rather cheaply, while heavier items will cost more and may even need special shipping services. When shipping a package internationally, it is important to make sure it is in a strong package or box to avoid damage.

International Shipping Carries

When you need to ship a package internationally, you have several carrier options including the United States Postal Service, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. All have their specifications that you need to adhere to. USPS will ship lighter items, such as small packages and large envelopes, but heavier or larger items need to ship by other carriers. UPS, FedEx and DHL all ship items weighing 100 pounds or less, but if your item weighs more than this, it has to ship via a freight carrier, which can be quite expensive.

International Shipping Costs

The cost of international shipping depends on the size of the package, the weight and the carrier. A very large package that weighs 95 pounds is going to cost more than a stack of papers in an envelope. In addition, the package destination also determines the cost to ship. The closer the destination is to you, the cheaper it will be while longer distances cost more because it takes more fuel to get to the final destination.

International Shipping Packaging

Something to keep in mind when shipping internationally is that your package is secured. Remember, the package, regardless of the size is going to be traveling a long distance and handled by many people and machines. If it is not securely taped, the package could rip and the contents fall out, so take some time to make sure the package is in a hard to rip package along with plenty of packing tape.