International delivery: we send parcels around the world

International delivery from Ukraine
August 30, 2024
4 Minutes

Content

Brief Summary

International shipping from Ukraine depends not only on the carrier’s tariff but also on customs regulations, parcel weight, transportation method, correct documentation, and possible delays. This article explains what affects the cost of international delivery, what documents are required, and how to choose a reliable courier service.

Who is this article for

  • For sellers who regularly send goods abroad.
  • For small businesses that want to better understand customs, documents, and delivery costs.
  • For those who want to select a carrier and minimize risks of international delays.

Key Takeaway

To successfully organize international delivery, you need to: understand what influences the cost, consider the customs regulations of the destination country, properly prepare the invoice and declaration, choose the appropriate courier service, and be prepared for possible customs delays.

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How to Organize Delivery Abroad: Step by Step

  1. Evaluate the package parameters: weight, dimensions, type of goods, and destination country.
  2. Check what affects the cost: fuel, duties, security, route congestion, and transportation method.
  3. Study customs requirements: whether additional forms, licenses, or certificates are needed.
  4. Prepare documents: invoice, customs declaration, and, if necessary, permit documents.
  5. Choose a courier service: compare UPS, FedEx, and Nova Poshta by price, speed, and coverage.
  6. Accurately complete documents: this reduces the risk of delays at customs.
  7. Track the parcel and notify the buyer: this is important in case of any delays.
  8. Plan for extra time: weather, inspections, or permit issues can alter timelines.

Basics of international shipping

International shipping cost

Sending parcels abroad can be a real puzzle. Let’s figure out what affects the cost of delivery. Here are the main factors:

Factor

Impact on cost

Fuel prices

The more expensive the fuel, the higher the delivery costs

Trade tariffs

Tariffs and duties can significantly increase the cost

Security measures

Additional checks and security measures can increase delivery time and cost

Port congestion

Delays at ports can affect delivery times and increase costs

Size and weight of parcels

Large and heavy parcels cost more to send

Transportation methods

Air delivery is more expensive than sea or land delivery

In addition to the main costs, there may be additional expenses. These include customs duties, increased delivery tariffs, import taxes, and others.

‍Customs duties are taxes on goods crossing international borders. International shipping always involves customs clearance. Additional taxes may depend on the material of the item, its weight, or the delivery value.

The importance of customs regulations during international shipping

Observing customs regulations is not just a formality, but a necessity. It helps avoid problems and delays.

‍Sending goods abroad often requires a license. Goods valued above a certain amount may require additional customs forms depending on each country’s laws.

‍47% of businesses report that their main problem during international delivery is understanding local rules concerning customs and taxes. This highlights the common complexity faced during international shipping.

‍So, if you plan to send goods abroad, be prepared for surprises and additional costs. But if you ship with Western Bid – don’t worry, with proper preparation and knowledge of all the nuances, we will handle this task without your involvement. All documents will be ready instantly in your personal Western Bid account as soon as you process and pay for the shipment.

Tips for successful delivery

Choosing a courier service

Choosing a courier service is like choosing a dance partner: it’s important that they are reliable and don’t step on your toes.

‍Major players such as UPS, FedEx, and Nova Poshta offer international services, but sometimes your cargo may travel through several hands, including local services.‍

Courier Service

Advantages

Disadvantages

UPS

Global network, reliability

High rates

FedEx

Fast delivery, tracking

Limited availability in some countries

Nova Poshta

Wide coverage, flexible rates

Deliveries take longer than courier services

Document preparation

Proper document preparation is like cooking the perfect borscht: if you miss something, the result won’t be right. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Invoice (bill of sale)
  • Customs declaration
  • Licenses and certificates (if needed)‍

Document

Purpose

Notes

Invoice

Confirmation of the value and contents of the parcel

Currency and description of goods are specified

Customs declaration

Information for customs

Filled out depending on the destination country

Licenses and certificates

Permission for import/export of goods

Needed for certain categories of goods

Dealing with delays at customs

Delays at customs occur rarely, and you can prepare for them. Here are some tips:

  1. Fill out documents accurately and completely.
  2. Update the parcel status and keep buyers informed.
  3. Work with reliable carriers – such as Western Bid.
  4. Be prepared for delays due to weather or natural disasters.‍

Reasons for delays

Solutions

Check the correctness of filling out all forms

Weather conditions

Keep recipients informed, refer to weather resources

Licensing issues

Obtain all necessary permits in advance

By following these tips, you will be able to send parcels abroad without unnecessary headaches and minimize possible problems.‍

Key Rules for Successful International Shipping

  • Always check the customs requirements of the destination country.
  • Complete and accurate documentation is essential.
  • Compare carriers not only by price but also by reliability and delivery times.
  • Keep in mind that large and heavy parcels cost more.
  • Update the shipment status for the buyer if there is a delay.

In international shipping abroad, the most expensive aspect is not the rate itself, but errors in documents, misunderstanding customs regulations, and choosing the wrong carrier. These are the most common causes of delays and additional costs.

Want to organize international shipping without mistakes?

Start with the correct documentation, customs regulations check, and selecting the carrier suitable for your type of goods. These steps have the most significant impact on stable international delivery.

Check international shipping rates

Консультантка з міжнародної торгівлі та доставки для e-commerce, власниця магазину на Etsy. Організаторка, співведуча, кураторка курсів для продавців на Etsy, Ebay, Shopify від Академії продажів Western Bid, які пройшли 1000 + учасників. Керівник маркетингового відділу компанії Western Bid.

✓ For sellers who regularly ship goods abroad.

✓ For small businesses that want to better understand customs, documents, and shipping costs.

✓ For those who want to choose a carrier and minimize the risks of international delays.

✓ практичні рекомендації по запуску доставки

Learn about the 5 main barriers — based on 25 years of Western Bid’s experience in working with international e-commerce.



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