How to Fill Out a USPS Customs Form
Expanding your e-commerce sales into international markets is a great way to grow revenue. And when shipping to international destinations, you must declare the contents of your package on a Customs Form so the destination country can inspect the product and determine if a duty or tax is required.
While some people think the process of completing a Custom Form is complicated, it really is a very simple process. And Stamps.com has made the process easy by AUTOMATICALLY filling out most of the required fields in the custom form!
There are four main section on a U.S. Postal Service Customs Form that require attention (example above is CN 22/PS Form 2976, commonly referred to as “1 page form”):
#1 Merchandise Info: This is the area that you state the product description and value. If you use Stamps.com, the data can be automatically imported from your data source such eBay, Amazon.com, Etsy or your Shopping Cart.
#2 Address Info: This is the “from” address stating where the package is coming from, and the “to” or delivery address for where the package is traveling to. Stamps.com automatically imports this info from the original data source (eBay, Carts, etc.) into the Customs Form
#3 Signature and Date: The USPS requires all international shippers to sign and date the Customs Form. But with Stamps.com, you are a known shipper” and no signature is required. Stamps.com automatically includes your name and date on form.
#4 Electronic Round Stamp: The USPS requires all Customs Forms to be stamped at the Post Office, providing an official “proof of mailing.” But Stamps.com automatically prints an “electronic round stamp” on the Customs Form. This allows you to
The USPS has three separate Customs Forms to use, depending on the type of mail class used, the value of the product and the destination country. Generally speaking, all the three forms contain similar info. It comes down to the number of copies that are included on the package.
Get more info on USPS Customs Forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is Priority Mail Express International?
Delivery is made by the country's postal service in 3 - 5 business days, depending on the destination.
How fast is Priority Mail International?
Generally, it takes Priority Mail International six to ten business days. USPS hands off shipments at the border of the destination country before the local postal service completes the delivery.
How much does USPS First Class Package International® cost?
While price varies depending on weight and destination, rates for this service begin at $17 dollars.
UPS Worldwide Saver vs. UPS Worldwide Expedited: What is the speed comparison?
UPS Worldwide Saver is faster than UPS Worldwide Expedited, offering delivery by the end of the next business day to major business centers, compared to 2-5 business days for Worldwide Expedited. Worldwide Saver provides a more economical alternative to premium express services while maintaining quick delivery.
What are the UPS Worldwide Saver delivery times?
UPS Worldwide Saver guarantees delivery by the end of the business day, one day faster than UPS Worldwide Expedited. This service connects major business centers in over 220 countries and territories with time-definite delivery and customs clearance included.
What is DHL Express
DHL Express is a premium international shipping service that offers fast, time-definite delivery to over 220 countries and territories. It's designed for urgent packages, with door-to-door tracking, customs support, and express delivery options for businesses and individuals.
When using Priority Mail International, should I ship Flat Rate or by weight?
Flat Rate Envelopes are ideal for documents or small, dense items weighing 4 lbs or less, as they offer a single price based on the destination country. For items between 4 lbs and 70 lbs, or those that don't fit into the Flat Rate Envelopes, you'll need to ship by weight using your own packaging. It’s more affordable to use Flat Rate boxes if your item is under 20 lbs.
Why is it easier to ship internationally with Stamps.com?
Stamps.com makes international shipping easy by offering international services from USPS, UPS, and other carriers including GlobalPost. We make customs forms hassle free, so you can complete them online with ou guidance, and simply print to include with your international shipment.
Will my package be checked?
Yes. Your packages may be inspected to ensure compliance, as USPS is very strict about what items qualify for Media Mail.
