Shipping a Parcel to the USA: Everything You Need to Know

Shipping a Parcel to the USA: Everything You Need to Know

The shipping and delivery industry has evolved considerably in recent years. No one would have imagined a few years ago that international shipping would become so easy to do. Nowadays, you can easily send a package to your relatives living on another continent, and they should receive it in a couple of days at most.

If you live and work in Europe, shipping to the United States might seem a bit complicated at first. However, if you know about the existing rules, things shouldn’t be too difficult. Here we share with you everything you need to know about sending a package to the USA.

 

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Make Sure Your Items Are Allowed

Not every parcel can make it into the United States. It is important to know if your item is safe to send. Look online to find lists of items that are restricted or prohibited. For example, you might have some problems with sending food. It is better to wait until you can give food in person.

The web site of the United States Postal Service explains most of the restrictions you should know. It is good to make sure that you also know about the restrictions that your own country has, too, before you start sending packages.

 

Package Your Items Safely

It will take some time for your items to get to the US, and you have to make sure that they get there safely. That is why it is important to pack them the right way. Make sure that you take extra precautions and use cushioning material such as bubble wrap if necessary.

You can always use a delivery service that insures the shipments to the United States, such as ParcelABC. This way you can be sure that you will get your money back if something happens to your parcel.

 

Complete a Pro Forma Invoice

Sending a package to the US is a bit different from mailing within your own country. For example, you will need to complete a pro forma invoice. The pro forma invoice is required by law. It tells US Customs what is in your package. Most delivery services will help you with this paperwork.

Additionally, you can use ParcelABC to ship to the USA to make sure that your parcel will get to the destination safely. You’ll need to place 5 printed copies of the invoice in an envelope and attach it to the outside of the parcel.

 

 

Know the Tax and Import Rules

Each country is different when it comes to customs. You might need to pay extra taxes for certain items. You should take a look at the requirements for each country’s customs and border protection so you can know how much you will be charged for each item. Certain countries also require you to complete additional paperwork.

If all you need to do is send a sweater made by grandma to your brother in the United States, the paperwork should be simple to complete, and there shouldn’t be any import tax.

However, if you are shipping items in bulk for sale or trade, you’ll need to educate yourself thoroughly about the regulations.