How to Ship a Package Internationally (Without Losing Your Mind)
Shipping something overseas can feel intimidating. There are customs forms, country restrictions, and a lot more variables than domestic shipping. But with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Anyone who has ever tried to navigate the laws, rules, and guidelines of international shipping knows how complicated it is. No matter how many articles or government documents you read, it often makes no sense.
Honestly, not to oversell ourselves, this is a job best left to the experts. You don’t want to pay the expense of shipping something overseas only to have it returned to you a few weeks later - money and time lost.
Here’s a simple checklist to make sure your international shipment gets where it’s going without unnecessary delays.
Know What You’re Shipping
Before you start, take a close look at the contents. Different countries have different rules, and the details matter.
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Fragile items may need extra protection or special packaging.
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Batteries, liquids, and certain electronics can require extra documentation.
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High-value items may need additional insurance or tracking.
At Blue Bird Pack & Ship in Denver, we help customers assess their shipments before they seal the box.
We not only have the experience and expertise, but we’re able to keep up with the changes in laws. Bear in mind that not only do we have the domestic carrier to deal, but often an international shipper, and then the deliverer on the other side, which is often another national postal service.
Let our team handle the packing for you. It’s much easier to catch an issue early than to have it stopped in customs later.
Fill Out Customs Forms Right the First Time
The customs form is the most important piece of paperwork in international shipping.
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Be clear and accurate in your item descriptions. Instead of “gift,” write “cotton T-shirt” or “ceramic mug.”
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Include the correct quantity and value of each item.
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Match your packaging slip (if you have one) to the customs declaration.
According to the U.S. Postal Service, incomplete or inaccurate customs forms are a top reason for delays and returns in international shipping. Filling it out right the first time saves you weeks of waiting.
Note that everything you ship internationally (and even domestically, but less frequently) is subject to inspection, including opening and removing the item from the packaging. It is then usually sealed up again and will continue on its way.
Country Restrictions Are Real
Every country has its own list of banned or restricted items.
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Australia restricts certain wooden products because of pest concerns.
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The U.K. limits the import of specific foods and plant-based products.
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Many countries ban weapons, certain medications, and counterfeit goods entirely.
You can check each country’s import rules on their official customs website.
At Blue Bird Pack & Ship, we keep current copies of the most common restrictions so you don’t have to track them down yourself.
This is another of those places where if you get it wrong, not only will the package not be delivered, but you might never see it at all. The receiving country can simply destroy the package and never notify anyone.
Understand What “Delivered” Looks Like Internationally
Once your package leaves the U.S., it’s handled by another country’s postal service or courier. Tracking updates might slow down or use different terminology.
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“Out for delivery” means the same thing in most places, but other terms may vary.
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Some countries only scan packages at major checkpoints, so tracking can skip days.
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Delivery times vary. Rural areas may take longer. Some rural areas can take much longer.
Knowing this upfront keeps expectations realistic for you and your recipient. If something is time-sensitive, it’s important to be willing to choose a method of shipping with guaranteed delivery. This might be more expensive, but the expense might be worth it, depending on the item.
Cost vs. Speed Tradeoffs
When shipping internationally, you’re balancing how fast it gets there with how much you’re willing to spend.
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Express services like FedEx International Priority or UPS Worldwide Express can arrive in 1–3 business days, but they cost more.
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Economy or postal options like USPS Priority Mail International can take 6–10 business days at a lower price.
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Weight and size matter more in international pricing than in domestic shipping.
Blue Bird Pack & Ship can quote you side-by-side prices and delivery times for multiple carriers so you can decide what’s best for your budget and deadline.
Quick International Shipping Facts
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According to the International Air Transport Association, about 52 million metric tons of goods are shipped by air globally each year.
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The average customs clearance time for low-risk shipments is under 24 hours in most developed countries.
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Incorrect or incomplete paperwork is one of the top three causes of international delivery delays.
A Quick Note on Tariffs
The current tariffs only apply to items being shipped into the United States. They shouldn’t affect anything you ship internationally.
That said, the tariff situation is fluid at this point. International tariffs might be imposed that will affect your shipping.
If you’re unsure, reach out to the team at Blue Bird Pack & Ship; we’ll keep an eye on any tariffs that might affect your shipments.
Final Checklist Before You Ship
- Make sure your items are allowed in the destination country.
- Fill out customs forms accurately and completely.
- Choose a carrier and service that matches your budget and timeline.
- Pack your items securely and clearly label the package.
- Keep your tracking number and copies of your paperwork.
Shipping Made Easy from Denver
International shipping can be smooth when you plan ahead.
At Blue Bird Pack & Ship, we take care of the details - from packing and paperwork to finding the right carrier - so your shipment arrives without unnecessary delays. Stop in before you ship, and we’ll make sure your package is ready for the journey.