Chapter 1: Preparing to Go Global
Can I import my product to my target countries?
Can I import my product to my target countries?
Start by visiting the official customs website for the countries you’d like to ship to and take a look at the prohibited and restricted items. Products such as plants, seeds, alcoholic beverages, food products, and more could potentially be quarantined in customs for a long period of time, or be outright prohibited.
What issues could I encounter when shipping overseas?
What issues could I encounter when shipping overseas?
Some countries are easier to ship to than others. For example, India requires more personal documentation from the receiver than most countries. In Brazil, there are multiple taxes and duties that are imposed on imports. Economic instability makes delivery even more complicated.
Being aware of these potential issues will allow you manage expectations and build trust with your overseas customers. Check country specific restrictions, or read our in-depth country guides for more information:
Does my product contain dangerous goods?
Does my product contain dangerous goods?
In the shipping world, dangerous goods can be anything that, if not handled with care, could harm those handling them in transit.
Batteries and liquids are a good example: they are not dangerous by themselves, but they can contain a dangerous component (such as being flammable.) Couriers must be aware if your shipment contains these materials so they can handle them carefully.
This can also mean that your shipment may have additional restrictions. Some couriers may not allow dangerous goods shipments to fly, or can charge extra fees to handle these shipments.
Learn more about dangerous goods
What are sales taxes and duties, and will they apply to my shipments?
What are sales taxes and duties, and will they apply to my shipment?
Sales Taxes are required financial obligations levied by a government on income, goods, and activities.
Duties are a tax payable to the government, charged on goods and financial transactions.
Taxes and duties make the price of imported goods more expensive for consumers. Governments tax imports because they want to:
1. Protect domestic companies from foreign competitors
2. Control the flow of certain products
3. Raise revenue through taxes
Every country has a tax threshold, which is the amount where a person begins paying taxes. Tax and duty may not apply to every international shipment, so it’s best to research the tax thresholds for each country you want to ship to so you can communicate this to your customers effectively.
Do I need shipping insurance?
Do I need shipping insurance?
Plan on shipping something valuable? Nervous your shipment might get damaged in transit? The good news is that international shipping insurance is affordable and easy to get.
Most worldwide express couriers insure domestic and international shipments with a value up to $100USD by default; purchasing additional insurance may not be needed. However, if you use a postal courier (such as the USPS) they may not offer automatic insurance unless you are using one of their premium services.
Learn more about shipping insurance
