What you need before you start
- Packed dimensions and actual weight for every SKU
- HS code, country of origin and selling price
- Product restrictions and carrier acceptance
- DDP or DAP customer promise
- Return address and refund workflow
Show a realistic delivery promise at checkout
Do not use one worldwide price or delivery time. Group destinations by service level and show whether import charges are included. A short, honest range is safer than a precise promise that customs can invalidate.
Send complete order data to customs
Use a specific product description rather than “sample” or “gift”. The invoice should match the store order, currency, quantity, origin and recipient details.
Protect margin with chargeable weight
Couriers commonly bill the higher of actual and volumetric weight. Packaging reduction can save more than negotiating a small rate discount. Measure the packed parcel, not the product box.
Design the return before launching the lane
Decide which products may be returned internationally, where they go, whether duty can be reclaimed and when the customer is refunded. Link this policy from checkout.
Cross-border launch checklist
| Decision | Confirm before launch |
|---|---|
| Product | Accepted, restricted or permit-controlled |
| Price | Shipping plus expected surcharges |
| Duties | DDP or paid by receiver under DAP |
| Promise | Lane-specific estimate with customs caveat |
| Returns | Address, label, inspection and refund rule |
Accuracy note: Carrier acceptance, rates, delivery estimates, duties and document requirements can change by destination, product, value and date. Use this page to plan, then confirm the current requirements and a binding quote before dispatch.