International shipping without the customs headaches
Sending a package overseas isn’t hard, but it does come with a few extra steps that trip people up — mostly around customs. Get those right and your package sails through. Get them wrong and it can be delayed, returned, or hit with unexpected charges. Here’s how to send internationally with confidence.
Customs forms: accuracy beats speed
Every international shipment needs a customs declaration describing what’s inside and what it’s worth. The two most common mistakes both cause delays:
- Vague descriptions. “Gift” or “stuff” isn’t enough. Customs wants specifics — “2 cotton t-shirts,” “1 ceramic mug.” Clear descriptions move faster.
- Guessing the value. Declare the honest value of the contents. Under-declaring to save on duties can mean fines or a seized package; over-declaring can cost the recipient more than it should.
Know what you can’t send
Every country has its own list of prohibited and restricted items, and it’s often broader than people expect — certain foods, liquids, batteries, and more can be blocked depending on the destination. Before you pack, it’s worth checking whether your item is allowed where it’s going. Not sure? Ask us and we’ll help you look it up before you’re standing at the counter.
Build in extra time
International transit takes longer than domestic, and customs can add unpredictable days on top of the carrier’s estimate. If it needs to arrive by a certain date, send it well ahead — and for anything time-sensitive, choose a tracked, expedited service so you can follow it the whole way.
Duties and taxes
Depending on the destination and value, the recipient may owe import duties or taxes before they can collect the package. It’s worth giving your recipient a heads-up so a customs charge doesn’t come as a surprise.
We handle the paperwork with you
Customs forms are the part people dread, so let us walk you through them. Bring your item in and we’ll help you describe it correctly, declare it properly, pick the right international service across our carriers, and pack it to arrive intact.
- Monday–Friday: 9am – 6pm
- Saturday: 10am – 5pm
- Sunday: closed
We’re at Cochrane Plaza and Tennant Station in Morgan Hill, and on Branham Lane in San Jose. Explore our shipping services or find the nearest store.