Understanding International Customs and Regulations
We take the confusion out of customs
As one of the world’s largest customs brokers, we can help simplify the customs process for you around the world. Our localised customs expertise can mean less red tape and reduced delays. And when you ship, our online shipping tool will help you complete the required international customs forms as you go.
Understanding customs
Customs is a common term in international shipping which refers to the duties, fees or taxes levied on goods transported from one country to another. These costs vary depending on the item and country and are over and above the carrier's cost to ship goods. Every country has its own rules and guidelines for this, but no matter where you're shipping, our online shipping tools can help you anticipate what to expect.
Our shipping tool will help you complete required forms as you go
You can manually fill out paper copies of customs forms by hand and attach them to your shipments. But when you use ups.com web shipping, we’ll generate those forms for you automatically by collecting the relevant data as you proceed through the shipping process.
Get duties and tax estimates in advance
When you ship internationally with us, the import codes and compliance data for all your products are gathered and saved to your global parts catalogue. We can use this information to provide you an instant estimate of duties and taxes when you ship that product again.
Listed below are the most commonly-used international forms you may need as you import and export.
Tips to clear customs quicker
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Minimise paperwork – send your customs documents electronically
UPS Paperless® Invoice helps you streamline the customs clearance process. Upload any form electronically and transmit your data to customs offices across the globe.
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Knowing your harmonised tariff code can help you avoid headaches
Inaccurate descriptions of the goods being shipped may result in customs delays or unexpected charges. Make sure that your description is thorough and accurate – and use the correct harmonised tariff codes.
Find peace of mind with the details.
UPS tracking solutions show the progress of your shipment every step of the way, across town or around the world.