Shipping goods internationally can be a great way to expand your business or fulfill cross-border orders, but it’s not always as simple as placing a box on a truck. International freight involves a mix of paperwork, compliance regulations, logistics coordination, and a clear understanding of duties and taxes. If you’re new to global shipping, this post will walk you through the essentials to help you avoid costly mistakes.
1. Understand What You're Shipping
Before anything else, identify:
- The type of goods you’re sending (e.g., perishable, electronics, chemicals).
- Whether they’re classified as dangerous or restricted items.
Different countries have specific restrictions on what can be imported or exported, so always check the regulations of both your country and the destination country.
2. Know the Required Documentation
One of the biggest causes of delays in international freight is missing or incorrect paperwork. At a minimum, you may need:
- Commercial Invoice – includes details about the product, value, and parties involved.
- Packing List – outlines how the goods are packed.
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill – issued by the carrier as proof of shipment.
- Certificate of Origin – states where the goods are manufactured.
- Import/Export Licenses – required for certain goods and regions.
Your freight or logistics company can often help you prepare these documents.
3. Be Aware of Duties, Taxes, and Tariffs
Each country imposes customs duties and taxes based on the value and classification of the goods. Research the destination country’s tariff system or use tools like the HS Code (Harmonized System) to determine what charges to expect.
Tip: Decide who pays the customs charges — you (the sender) or your customer (the receiver). This is known as Incoterms, and it affects your pricing.
4. Choose the Right Shipping Method
There are two main modes of international shipping:
- Air Freight: Faster, ideal for small and high-value items.
- Sea Freight: Cheaper for bulk shipments but slower.
Depending on urgency and budget, you may also consider door-to-door courier services for lighter packages or LCL (Less than Container Load) for smaller sea shipments.
5. Understand the Timeframes
International shipping times can vary based on:
- Distance between countries
- Customs clearance delays
- Type of freight (air or sea)
Always build in extra time for unexpected delays, especially around holidays or during high shipping seasons.
6. Package Your Items Securely
International transit means your packages will be handled multiple times, sometimes in harsh conditions so use:
- Durable boxes
- Bubble wrap or foam for fragile items
- Waterproof tape
- Clear labelling
Also, include a copy of your invoice inside the package in case the external label is damaged.
7. Track Your Shipments
Use a logistics provider that offers real-time tracking. This gives you and your customer peace of mind and ensures transparency throughout the delivery journey.