What are the Laws for Shipping Internationally?
The laws and regulations around shipping freight internationally depend upon the country to which you are looking to ship. Each country has its own rules detailing what you are able to import so it is crucial to consult a shipping professional before you make any plans to ship abroad. Some countries don’t allow the importation of alcohol, certain types of produce or plants; even something you may think is harmless could be a violation of shipping regulations so it is crucial to do your due diligence before attempting to send your shipment.
What Types of Regulations Exist?
In addition to customs restrictions on what a country allows to be imported, there can also be restrictions on what a carrier will ship. USPS for example will not ship a long list of items including alcohol, perishables, tobacco products, lottery tickets and much more. As for importation rules from countries themselves, they vary widely based on many factors. Some countries are more strict than others and keep tighter control over what goods, commercial and household, can be brought into the country. Some countries will also have tighter regulations for goods brought in by non-citizens compared to those from their own citizens.
How Can I Prepare for an International Shipment?
Regardless of where you will be shipping your goods around the world, you will surely need a detailed, itemized list of exactly what you’ll be shipping and how many of each item. Next, you’ll want to find a trusted, experienced shipping company to handle the movement of your goods and the management of the customs processes that will be necessary to get your shipment where it needs to be. If you are shipping several items that are larger than a handful of parcels, you’ll need an international shipping company to provide you with the guidance and services needed to safely move your freight. Finally, you’ll want to prepare your goods for shipment. Your shipping company will assist in this process, telling you exactly what you’ll need to do to prepare your goods for transportation.
How to Choose an International Shipping Company
Choosing a shipping company can be a difficult task but it doesn’t have to be. In order to find the company that works best for you, you’ll want to look for an experienced logistics company who has the expertise and international partnerships needed to get your shipment safely across the globe. Be sure to consult with each company you are considering to get an estimate before agreeing to a shipment to make sure the service is in your budget.
If you’re in need of international shipping services, contact us today for a free estimate on commercial or household shipments!