International Shipping
What is International Shipping?
International shipping is the process of sending goods from one country to another by air, sea, or land. It involves clearing customs, following regulations, and ensuring packages comply with laws in both the exporting and importing countries.
Because each country has different rules, international shipping is more complex than domestic shipping. Mistakes in paperwork or packaging can lead to delays, fines, or even destroyed shipments. Many ecommerce businesses use freight forwarders or customs brokers to handle these logistics.
Average international shipping times
Delivery time depends on how and where you ship:
- Air freight: 2 to 7 business days
- Ocean freight: 2 to 4 weeks
- Road transport: Varies based on region
Air is the fastest but most expensive. The sea is slower but more affordable for large shipments.
Key stages of international shipping
- Export haulage - Goods are moved from your location to a warehouse or port.
- Export customs clearance - Your items are reviewed and cleared by the country you’re shipping from.
- Transportation - The goods are sent by air, sea, or road to the destination country.
- Import customs clearance - Local customs authorities inspect and approve the shipment.
- Import haulage - Goods are delivered to the final address or distribution center.
Steps to ship internationally
If you're shipping globally for the first time, here's what to do:
1. Gather shipment details
Double-check product descriptions, weights, values, and destination rules. Any mistake here can cause delays or rejections.
2. Clear customs
Hire a customs broker to help you handle paperwork and ensure compliance. Some freight companies include this as part of their service.
3. Provide tracking
Set up tracking through your carrier or install an app on your site. Real-time updates are important for international customers.
International shipping paperwork
When shipping internationally, you usually need:
- Commercial invoice - Lists item details, prices, and HS codes
- Packing list - Lists the exact contents of each shipment
- EEI (Electronic Export Info) - Required for high-value shipments from the U.S.
- Certificate of origin - Needed for countries with free trade agreements
Without the correct documents, customs may reject the shipment or delay delivery.
Final thoughts
International shipping opens the door to global customers but comes with added responsibility. Learn the regulations, partner with professionals, and use reliable tracking tools to ensure a smooth delivery experience. If you're just starting out, using a freight forwarder or platform with built-in international support can save you time and costly mistakes.
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