Shipping internationally through Etsy can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding how customs work is key to ensuring your packages reach their destination without any hitches. This guide will walk you through the process of accurately filling out customs forms when printing an international shipping label via Etsy.
Creating an International Shipping Label
When you generate an international shipping label via Etsy, it doubles as your customs form. There are several crucial steps involved:
- Package Weight and Customs Description: You need to input precise weights and customs descriptions for every item in your order. Remember, package weights should be rounded up to the next whole number without any fractions.
- Sender Information: Your full name along with your shop name should be incorporated into your sender details which may help prevent issues at customs.
- Recipient Details: Always include the buyer’s complete name in recipient details even if delivering to a registered business address.
- Declared Value Accuracy: Be ready with supporting documents like order invoices in case verification of declared values is needed.
As you create your label, the information provided will automatically fill out your customs form including item description(s), weight, and quantity.
Remember: Documentation requirements differ by service provider and destination country so ensure that you check what is required on the carrier’s site before dispatching.
Navigating Customs Descriptions
If there’s only one item in an order, Etsy auto-fills the customs description field from that item’s title (up to 50 characters). However, it’s editable under ‘Customs Description’.
A default customs description can also be set which will appear on all labels regardless of quantity. Up to five items can appear on a single form with details such as description, quantity, weight, and value included.
Understanding Tariff Numbers
Tariff numbers are mandatory for any package entering the European Union (EU). Packages without tariff codes could face delays at customs or be returned.
Knowing the right tariff number is crucial for your products. You can find these using resources like:
- United States Census Bureau
- European Taxation and Customs Union
- World Customs Organization
- US International Trade Commission
- Video education from the United States Census Bureau
While six-digit codes (HS6 code) are a minimum requirement for shipping into the EU, you can opt for more specific HS8 or HS10 codes. Most countries recognize HS6 codes.
Note: Etsy Support cannot help with finding the correct code. If you’re struggling, consider reaching out to a tax professional.
Declared Value of Your Shipment
The value of your item gets declared on your form and is auto-filled based on the total order amount including any discounts but excluding shipping or tax charges.
Printing Customs Forms
You’ll need to print one of two types of customs forms depending on mail class, package type, and destination country. Single-page forms can be attached in standard ways while multi-page forms require clear envelopes. Details about required forms by various carriers such as USPS, FedEx, Canada Post, Royal Mail & Evri, and Australia Post can be found on their respective websites.
Please note: Up to two months after initial label purchase, additional labels for an international order can be bought from the order’s receipt page.
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Automated Export System/Internal Transaction Number (AES/ITN)
For US sellers with packages valued at $2,500.00 USD or more may need additional documentation and an export license number as per U.S Census Bureau regulations which will appear as AES/ITN on customs form.
Packages under this value usually don’t require AES/ITN. Instead, an AES Exemption applies and the number is auto-printed on the customs forms for postage bought through Etsy.
However, if a package is valued at $2,500.00 USD or more, you need to supply a valid AES/ITN yourself as it will be left blank on any postage purchased through Etsy.
Remember, International shipping can seem complex but with careful attention to these details and maintaining accurate records, you can ensure smooth and successful deliveries for your customers worldwide!
Additional Tips: Customs Forms, Duties, and Taxes
When shipping internationally on Etsy, there are a few more things you should know to ensure the process runs smoothly. Here are some additional tips and useful links about customs forms, duties, and taxes.
General Shipping Guidelines
It’s important to manage your customers’ expectations when it comes to international shipping. Be transparent about potential delays due to customs clearance and let them know that as a seller, you can’t be responsible for such hold-ups. Avoid marking your package as a “gift” if you’re mailing an item sold to a customer. Misrepresenting the contents of your shipment is against the law and may result in severe penalties.
Lastly, always check with your country’s postal service regarding which forms need to be attached to your package. Properly filling these out is crucial in preventing any delays at customs.
Shipping Specifics by Country
U.S.A.
All packages entering the U.S. from another country require a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Declaration form (either CN 22 or CN 23), obtainable at most foreign post offices or from USPS.com for free. It’s essential that all packages sent to the US have visible seller information on them including name & address, accurate description of items in English(this determines duty calculation), quantity of each type of item shipped, purchase prices in USD, etc. For detailed explanations visit US Customs & Border Patrol site.
Canada
Canada has different rules compared to the US with potential subject duty and taxes on items imported into Canada by mail unless specifically exempted. Check this Canada Post for more information.
European Union
Shipping within EU member countries exempts packages from duties or taxes but requires declaration forms CN22 or CN23 just like other regions.
Australia
Receiving international packages is relatively straightforward in Australia with all goods except tobacco products and alcoholic beverages being imported duty and tax-free if their value is $1,000 AUD or less.
Japan
All packages entering Japan undergo customs clearance where duties are calculated as a percentage of the item’s value in yen. Most goods valued below 10,000 yen are exempt from consumption tax.
Addressing Packages Correctly
The format of buyer addresses may differ based on location. It’s always recommended to check common address formats for specific locations before sending out your package. Including a version of the address in both the language of the origin location and destination location can be beneficial, especially if the buyer supplied an address with non-Latin characters.
Understanding these nuances of international shipping can help ensure your packages reach their destinations smoothly while providing a positive experience for your customers. Always remember to keep yourself informed about any changes in rules or regulations that may affect your Etsy shop’s international shipping process.
Wrapping Up:
In conclusion, while international shipping through Etsy might seem intimidating at first glance, it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the intricacies of customs forms, tariffs declared values, and country-specific guidelines for regions like the U.S., Canada, European Union, Australia, and Japan - you can effectively navigate this process.
Remember that transparency with your customers about potential delays due to customs clearance is crucial in maintaining a good seller-buyer relationship. Also, note that accurate documentation and adherence to legalities are non-negotiable aspects of successful global shipping.