On top of the usual great shipping practices that can help save time and increase sales, here's a checklist of things to consider when sending things internationally:

• Shipping costs and time
• Insurance
• Packaging
• Customs
• Taxes and duties

Shipping costs and time

International shipping costs and transit times are generally greater and can vary a lot depending on:

• Weight and dimensions of the package
• Shipping method, for example, whether surface or air mail

Providing clear information about your shipping options can help international buyers shop with confidence from you.

Handling time and return policy are required in all new listings and when you relist.
Note: return policy and handling time will not be required in Motors categories (Vehicles or Parts & Accessories).

Offer a selection of shipping services in your listings.
Compare various shipping rates and transit times and give buyers a good mix of options. Some buyers may be willing to pay higher shipping for faster delivery.

For higher priced items, offer trackable shipping services
Sellers are responsible for their items until they arrive safely in the buyer’s hands. Tracking provides additional protection for higher priced items. Buyers feel more confident when you provide electronic delivery confirmation.

You can also upload the package tracking information in My eBay. Buyers will be able to access it in a pop-up window right from My eBay without having to go to the Order Details page.

On eBay.com (eBay US), use the eBay Shipping Calculator
eBay's Shipping Calculator helps you specify shipping costs automatically depending on a buyer's location.

TIP: Keeping shipping costs low can help your item's search results ranking. On many eBay sites, buyers can now sort results by price + shipping.

Insurance
It's best to insure items you're sending internationally as there's a higher risk of loss or damage in transit. Many postal services automatically provide some coverage, but you might want to purchase additional insurance for high value items.

You can either include insurance charges in your total shipping costs or give buyers the option to purchase insurance separately.

TIP: Make sure you use a shipping service that offers tracking so you can be covered under PayPal Seller Protection for eligible items paid with PayPal.

Packaging
International packages usually go through a lot more handling. Take care to pack items well so they arrive in good condition:

• Send items in a sturdy box.
• Seal the package with strong tape.
• Protect your item with cushioning like bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
• Attach correct labeling.
• Enclose documentation that specifies an item's value (like an invoice) that customs officials can easily reference.

Customs
All packages have to pass through customs of the country you are despatching to. Avoid the hassle and additional costs of returned items caused by customs clearance issues:

• Attach relevant customs forms on the outside of your package
• Clearly state the contents, value and purpose of your package
  1. When declaring the value of an item, list its closing price. Exclude shipping and handling charges.
  2. Generally you shouldn't list your item as a gift. It's wrong to misrepresent items to avoid customs fees.

Visit the World Customs Organization Web site for more information about specific customs regulations of various countries.

Taxes and duties

Duties and taxes may be charged on certain items and vary by country. Some countries charge Value Added Tax (VAT), on top of applicable duties.

Usually, buyers are responsible for knowing how much they'll be charged in taxes and duties, and bear the additional costs. However, you can help customers by mentioning relevant cost estimates in your listings.

Here are some resources to find out more about the taxes and duties of different countries:

• World Customs Organization
• The United States Council for International Business

Visit our Shipping Center for more practical tips.