If you are nervous about shipping things internationally, then you are at the right place. The idea of international shipping is both exciting and intimidating. While it is a great way to connect hearts and bring a smile on your loved ones faces, it is also important to have a trusted shipping partner. Why? Because you want the goods to reach your dear ones in a good condition and secondly, if the shipping carrier is reliable enough to meet the demands of the Customers. After all, Customer satisfaction is of prime importance.
So, what is the best approach for international shipping? This article will provide you with the top 10 tips you need to learn before shipping goods internationally.
1. Make sure what you’re shipping has no restrictions
Run a quick check whether the items you’re transferring to the destination country can actually be sent. This is to make sure that you don’t send any restricted item, which can cause delays in deliveries or loss of shipment in customs. Plus, it will give you or the recipient a heads-up on the extra costs incurred due to any duty or tax application. So first, find out the list of items that can have restrictions, in addition to their duty and tax information.
2. Find a reliable courier
There’s no dearth of courier service in the world. However, if you want your shipment to reach the destination is a pristine state, then it’s better to stick to DHL Express. It’s efficient, smooth, and reliable and gives real-time updates of your shipment. With DHL international shipping, you have the option to choose the shipment collection time as per your choice. It sends messages with a direct tracking link before delivery.
3. Stick to the rules of the country you’re shipping to
When you’re shipping internationally, you need to have a thorough understanding of the many rules and regulations of the country you are shipping to. If you’re not cautious, you may end up violating the law and losing the shipment in the process.
4. Note the correct information of the recipient
As mundane as it sounds, it is also a very crucial factor. Having the right contact information such as the phone number, mailing address, and email address will reduce your chances of a failed or delayed delivery.
5. Fill out the correct paperwork
For any international shipment, you will need to fill out some specific paperwork. However, the most important information that you’ll need to provide is the description of the item/s and the cost it incurs. Then, the customs officer at the destination country will use the document to find out the contents of the package and determine whether any tax or duty charges apply to your shipment.
6. Pack the fragile items carefully when shipping internationally
If you’re shipping fragile items internationally, then it’s important to take the right steps to protect them from getting broken during transit. So, make sure you select the right box suitably sized for the contents. You can use a bubble wrap to pack the items and prevent them from colliding within the box.
7. Provide a commercial invoice
A commercial invoice with all the relevant information such as your address, the recipient’s address, the contents you are shipping and more prevents unnecessary delays or loss of parcel. It also helps you pay the right duties and taxes for your goods.
8. Insure your shipment
International shipping always comes with an increased risk. Why? Because your packages travel for longer periods of time, pass through multiple stops, checkpoints, and inspections before reaching its destination. Adding an extra amount as insurance is one of the quickest and easiest solutions to lessen this risk.
9. Learn the cost of duties and taxes
Often, foreign governments add extra duty and tax charges to foreign shipments. Although it could be an effort to boost government revenues, nonetheless, it is your responsibility to make sure that the correct duties and taxes are paid before your overseas shipment reaches the customs.
10. Learn the correct shipping terminologies
Having a good knowledge of the basic shipping terminologies will simplify your conversations with the courier service and others involved with your shipment. Plus, it gives you more control over the shipment process and helps avoid unwanted surprises for you and your recipient.
If you keep these tips on international courier services in your mind, you can be certain that your goods will reach the recipient safely and smoothly. Moreover, by opting for DHL shipping services, you will save yourself as well as your shipment from any unknown risks.