How to Ship a Package Overseas

Sending packages to friends and family can be a difficult process in itself, with concerns about keeping the items safe en route and getting them to their destination on time. Shipping packages overseas can be an even more difficult process as you deal with foreign addresses and customs. However, the United States Post Office is prepared for this and sending a package overseas only requires a few additional steps.

Things You'll Need

• Package
• Destination address
• Sender's address
• Customs forms
• Postage

Instructions

1. Print the destination address clearly and make sure to use proper formatting. The United States Post Office recommends printing this address in all uppercase letters to make it easier to read. If the address is written in a foreign language, you must rewrite the city, province, and country in English as well. The country should be written on the last line with no other information beside it and must be spelled out completely.

2. Include the sender's full name and address on the front of the envelope or package. Do not use abbreviations for the name, and make sure to spell out the country completely.

3. Use the appropriate customs forms for your package. If the package weight 16 oz. or less and the contents are worth less than $400, you can simply affix PS Form 2976 to the outside of the package. If you package does not meet these criteria, or you are sending it by Priority mail, you must affix the top part of PS Form 2976 to the package, then include PS Form 2976-A within the package.

4. Take the prepared package to the nearest post office to have it weighed and obtain the proper amount of postage. After paying for the postage for you package, you can leave it at the post office for shipping overseas.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the post office regularly for updates and changes to their international shipping procedures.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• International Mail Manual