June 5, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About International Shipping in 2025
In many ways, our world feels smaller than ever before. With just a click of a button, you can instantly connect with someone across the globe. However, exchanging physical goods between countries remains a complex process. Whether you’re shipping internationally for business or personal reasons, PostNet is your trusted partner to help navigate the many challenges of cross-border logistics. Read on to get a comprehensive overview of how international shipping rates and services work, what you can (and can’t) ship, and how recent geopolitical developments — like tariffs — are affecting global commerce.
When shipping goods across borders, you’ve got plenty of options, just like with domestic shipping. If speed is key, expedited international services like express courier or air freight are the way to go. They can deliver packages worldwide in as little as 24 to 72 hours, which is perfect for time-sensitive stuff like perishables or essential supplies.
But if cost is a bigger concern, more budget-friendly options like ocean freight or surface mail might be a better fit. These services can take a bit longer, but they’ll save you money on shipping. This approach works well for non-urgent shipments, like bulk orders or manufactured goods, where a slower delivery time isn’t a huge deal.
Regardless of which shipping method you choose, every international package must pass through customs, the government agency that regulates imports and exports. Customs agents verify the contents of your shipment, ensure you’ve completed the necessary documentation, and determine whether duties or taxes apply. Some of those common documents include:
A misstep here can lead to delays, returns, or additional fees. That’s where PostNet shines; we assist customers in properly preparing all necessary paperwork to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transit.
While you can ship a variety of personal and commercial items across the globe, each destination country has its own set of restrictions. Additionally, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) established — and continues to update — the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG) which, in conjunction with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), details which items are universally prohibited from being shipped anywhere in the world.
Also, certain shipping carriers may have their own list of restricted items. The best practice is to consult with your local PostNet center for up-to-date guidance specific to your shipment and destination.
Working with people who really know international shipping rates is essential to making sure your goods arrive safely and on time. Even small mistakes can cause big problems. For example, underestimating a shipment’s value can cause customs delays, like what happened to a US exporter who got it wrong when sending to China, resulting in a three-week delay and a big fine. Not having the right paperwork, like a commercial invoice or certificate of origin, can also be a hassle. By working with experts who are familiar with international shipping services and processes, you can sidestep these common issues and have a smooth ride for your goods.
In 2025 alone, the U.S. has introduced numerous tariffs targeting countries like China, Russia, and certain EU member states. These policy changes have had a significant ripple effect on both commercial and personal international shipments, both domestically for the U.S. and abroad.
Tariffs are essentially taxes imposed on imported goods. As a result, many shipments now come with higher duties, which may be passed on to the recipient of the country who initiated the tariff. For example, if an American orders something from a country impacted by tariffs, the individual that placed the order would pay for the increased cost. Businesses in particular must factor in these costs when pricing their products for global customers.
Some items are now subject to stricter compliance checks, and certain goods may require additional certifications or even licenses before they can be shipped internationally. Commonly impacted categories include:
Customs agencies have stepped up their watch on goods from certain countries, which means they’re taking a closer look at everything to maintain their compliance. This can lead to longer customs clearance times. Even if a package is compliant, it might still get flagged for extra review if it’s from a tariffed country. The same goes for shipments with specific types of electronics or hazardous materials – they might need extra scrutiny, causing delays. This can have a domino effect on the whole supply chain, resulting in delays and increased costs for both importers and exporters.
Whether you’re a small business owner shipping products to overseas customers or an individual sending gifts to family abroad, it’s crucial to stay informed about current trade policies and tariffs. PostNet can help you understand how tariffs might affect your specific shipment and offer recommendations for cost-effective alternatives.
International shipping services don’t have to be daunting. With the right preparation and support, you can send packages across the world efficiently and worry-free. From packaging and documentation to carrier selection and customs guidance, we are here to simplify the process. Visit your local PostNet today to get expert advice and drop-off your international shipment the right way.
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