International Delivery: What You Need to Know
Sending a box overseas feels like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re shipping a birthday gift to a friend in Spain or moving office equipment to a new branch in Asia, the basics stay the same: choose a reliable carrier, pack smart, and understand customs. In this guide we’ll break down the key decisions you face and give you quick tips to keep costs low and delivery times short.
Pick the Right Carrier for Your Destination
Not all couriers perform the same across every country. FedEx and UPS dominate the North American and European markets, offering fast transit times and strong tracking. DHL shines in Asia and Africa, with a network that reaches remote cities where others can’t. USPS is a good budget option for lighter parcels heading to the US or Canada, though delivery can be slower.
Start by checking the carrier’s service map for your exact destination. Look at two things: the quoted delivery window and any restrictions on the type of goods you’re sending. For example, UPS may not handle hazardous materials in certain Middle‑East countries, while DHL will. If speed matters, compare express (1‑3 days) versus standard (5‑10 days) rates. A quick price check on each provider’s website can reveal a big gap – sometimes FedEx is $15 cheaper than UPS for a 5 kg package to Germany, but DHL may beat both on price for a 2 kg parcel to Singapore.
Don’t forget insurance. International shipments are more likely to encounter mishandling or loss, so adding coverage for the value of your items can save a lot of stress. Most carriers let you purchase insurance online, and the cost is usually a small percentage of the declared value.
Save Money and Avoid Delays
Packaging is the first place you can cut costs. Use a sturdy box that fits snugly around the item, and fill any empty space with bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Oversized boxes attract higher dimensional weight fees, especially with FedEx and UPS.
Next, nail the customs paperwork. Fill out the commercial invoice accurately – list a clear description, the correct HS code, and the true value of the goods. Under‑declaring value may seem tempting but can lead to fines or shipment holds. Many carriers offer a prepaid customs brokerage service; paying a little extra upfront often speeds up clearance.
If you ship regularly, consider a freight forwarder or a consolidation service. These companies combine several small parcels into one shipment, lowering the per‑package cost. For occasional large items, ask the carrier about pallet shipping options – UPS and DHL both handle pallets internationally, but you’ll need to meet size and weight limits.
Finally, plan for the unexpected. Weather, strikes, or new import regulations can cause delays. Keep an eye on the tracking dashboard and set up alerts for any status changes. If a delay looks imminent, contact the carrier’s support line early – they can sometimes reroute the parcel or offer a refund for missed delivery windows.
At Dex Removals & Logistics Services we help UK businesses navigate these steps. Our team can book the best carrier for you, handle customs paperwork, and provide secure storage while your shipment is in transit. Give us a call and let us take the guesswork out of your next international delivery.
June 23, 2025
Evelyn Wescott
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Wondering how much it actually costs to ship a package abroad with UPS? This article breaks down what affects pricing, how to get accurate quotes, and some tips for saving money. Packed with useful facts and straightforward advice, you'll find everything you need before heading to the UPS store. Cut through the confusion—get real numbers and steps right here. No guesswork needed.
