Intl Shipping Guide

Major Carrier Comparison

Carrier Best For Express Transit Economy Transit Tracking
DHL ExpressSpeed, global coverage1–3 days4–8 daysExcellent
FedEx InternationalUS origin, reliability1–3 days5–10 daysExcellent
UPS WorldwideB2B, US origin1–3 days5–12 daysExcellent
USPS Priority Mail IntlBudget, small parcels from US6–10 daysGood
China Post / ePacketLow-value China exports14–30 daysBasic
SF ExpressChina cross-border, Asia2–5 days5–10 daysGood
Yanwen / 4PXChina e-commerce exports15–25 daysModerate

Customs Documentation

Document Required For Key Information
Commercial InvoiceAll commercial shipmentsSender, receiver, item description, HS code, value, quantity
Packing ListMultiple items, large shipmentsDetailed list of contents with dimensions and weight
Certificate of OriginFTA benefits, some destinationsProof of where goods were manufactured
CN22 / CN23Postal small packetsContents, value, sender info
Air Waybill (AWB)All air freightContract between shipper and carrier

Incoterms Quick Reference

Term Full Name Seller's Responsibility Ends
EXWEx WorksAt seller's premises
FOBFree On BoardWhen goods loaded on ship
CIFCost, Insurance, FreightDestination port (insurance included)
DDPDelivered Duty PaidBuyer's location (all costs paid)
DAPDelivered At PlaceBuyer's location (buyer pays duty)

Packaging Tips for International Shipping

TipDetails
Double-box fragile itemsPlace item box inside a larger outer box with 2 inches of cushioning
Use 2-inch packing tapeSeal all seams, apply H-tape pattern on box tops and bottoms
Waterproof labelCover shipping label with clear tape or use laser-printed waterproof labels
Include duplicate invoice insideHelps if outer label is damaged during customs inspection
Weight / dimension accuracyUse dimensional weight formula: L×W×H / 5000 (cm) for pricing