USPS Priority Mail Express International

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I fill out a customs form for international shipping?

  If you're new to shipping packages internationally, then completing a customs declaration form may seem daunting, but never fear, Parcel Monkey is here! We'll collect all the relevant customs information from you during the booking process and provide you with the correct customs documents to print and attach to your package. 

  The following guide will walk you through the information you need to provide on your customs declaration form and the level of detail required.

  Completing your customs declaration form 

  You must complete a customs declaration form when shipping abroad. This will include:

  • A description of the goods you're sending (see providing a clear goods description) 
  • The value and quantity of each item  
  • The purpose of the shipment e.g. gift, personal belongings, an item you’ve sold etc.

   The customs declaration form helps customs officers:

  • Find out what's inside your package
  • Check if any customs duty or tax needs to be applied
  • Decide whether your goods are allowed to enter the country you’ve sent them to

  Providing a clear goods description

  During the booking process, we'll provide you with a simple form which covers all the customs information required, including a description of the goods you’re sending.  The goods description is super important and needs to accurately describe the item you’re sending, including what it's made from and what it's used for. 

  Here is an example of a clear and accurate goods description: 

  • Men's shirt casual button-down slim-fit cotton wrinkle-free single-needle construction

  Here is an example of a bad goods description:

  • Men’s shirt

  What happens if you provide a bad goods description? 

  If you provide a goods description which is vague and lacking in relevant details, then it's likely your parcel will be delayed in customs as they don't have the information they need to process your shipment efficiently. Giving a clear and accurate description of the items you're sending is the best way to ensure your package travels through customs smoothly. 

   Customs form tips:

  • Be descriptive of all items inside the package. Provide an overview of each individual item, including the use and what it’s made of. 
  • Provide an accurate value for each item. Customs will check if you have undervalued an item to avoid fees. They will charge the correct amount and potentially extra handling fees for miss-declared items. 
  • Print and attach the customs documents to the outside of the package in a clear plastic wallet or envelope marked 'Customs'.
  • Even if you list the item as a gift, this does not necessarily mean you will avoid any customs duty. The customs officers in the recipient destination will still look at the value of the goods, what the actual contents of the parcel is and check all the other factors that can initiate customs charges.
  • Ensure all contact information is accurate so customs can contact the recipient to collect any duties owed. All Parcel Monkey shipments are shipped DDU, so it is the responsibility of the recipient to pay any duty. 
  • For some locations, such as India, you may need to complete a 'Know Your Customer' form.  This will be provided by customs for the recipient to complete. It checks the recipient is who they say they are and helps prevent fraud. 

  Further reading:

  • How do I attach my customs documents?
  • Customs advice 
  • What is DDU and DDP?
  • Will my package be subject to customs charges?
  • My tracking says there is a customs issue. What should I do?
  • Who has to pay customs duty?

   

   

  Still need help?

  Ask a general question Report an issue with an order

• Are your services suitable to ship my eBay items?

  Of course, this is one of the major reasons our customer base continually use our services as we provide you with a cost-effective a delivery price for your sold items in the US or internationally. 

  Need a courier company to collect the item from the seller? We can help you arrange a service from another address. 

  All we need to get you a great shipping price is the package details and delivery and we can have the eBay item sent for less using our cheaper rates.

  eBay lists just about anything for sale, including exercise equipment, vinyl records and much, much more. Even if you are new to eBay then you can follow our eBay selling guide to make a success of your eBay store. 

  If you are an eBay seller who sells a lot of items - try our bulk shipping tool so you can multiple shipping quotes quickly. 

  For more information about eBay services, read more here. 

  Still need help?

  Ask a general question Report an issue with an order

• How should I package my parcel?

  All packages should be packed well enough to be transported safely across long distances, potentially being passed through a range of vehicles and warehouses depending on which destination you are shipping to. Always check your items are not prohibited or restrcited too, 

  • Use a sturdy, heavy duty cardboard box to prevent any damage to the goods inside.

  • If the items inside are fragile, make sure they are wrapped separately. Fill any spaces in the box with polystyrene chips. 

  • Seal any openings of the box with layers of tape to ensure the box does not open.

  • Securely attach all shipping labels and customs documents provided by Parcel Monkey.

   

  If you have any further questions on packaging, read our guide and if you are still unsure feel free to ask our Live Chat team for advice. 

  Still need help?

  Ask a general question Report an issue with an order