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International Shipping

by Ben Armstrong
2 replies
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I'm about to start shipping our products internationally after having a few international customers make enquiries recently and have set up the international shipping zones and rates through shopify. My only concern is being unaware of any additional costs that may be incurred via customs etc.

I'd love to be able to go through every single nation in the worlds customs process one by one, but it simply isn't possible for me.

What considerations do I need to make here?
What happens if something gets held up at customs in another country?
Should it be the buyers responsibility to be aware of and to pay for any additional costs?

Just looking to hear from other people's experiences with shipping internationally.
#international #shipping
  • Profile picture of the author Importexport
    Assuming you are selling to consumers, you should tell them in any advertising that duty and sales tax if charged will be their responsibility. Likewise any delays cannot be your problem, but I would not feel any need to state that..

    In most western countries delays on small shipments to consumers will be minimal. The most common causes are shipping of big brand goods, declaration as a gift, declaration of a false value, or shipping prohibited goods. I doubt you are doing the latter.

    The customs processes are much the same in every country, although some places involve more red tape than others, but the problems are for your customers, not for you.

    You might like to look at what sellers on eBay in the US state.

    Please note that I am not offering legal advice.

    Walter Hay.
    "If you think education is expensive - consider the cost of ignorance."
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  • Profile picture of the author nwik
    Choose the courier that costs much lower.

    You should let the consumer shoulder the additional expenses.

    Make sure that you give a reasonable price and ensure the safety of the product.
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