Smart declaration and meticulous planning are your keys to smooth international delivery.
Navigating international shipping can be daunting, with unexpected customs delays and fees turning a great deal into a hassle. At LoveGoBuy, we believe a smooth delivery is part of the great service. By focusing on proper product declarationtimely shipping, you can significantly minimize customs risks. The cornerstone of this process? Meticulously recording every cost detail in your spreadsheet.
Core Strategy: Accuracy & Documentation
Success in avoiding customs issues hinges on two pillars: transparency with customs authorities and impeccable personal record-keeping.
1. Proper Product Declaration: The Non-Negotiable Rule
Always declare items accurately on commercial invoices. Misrepresenting an item's value, description, or category is a common cause for seizure, delays, and penalties.
- Be Precise:
- State Real Value:
- Know Your Codes:
- State Real Value:
2. Timely Shipping & Proactive Planning
Rushed decisions lead to mistakes. Plan your shipments with customs clearance in mind.
- Check Destination Regulations:
- Don't Consolidate Prohibited Items:
- Choose the Right Shipping Line:
- Don't Consolidate Prohibited Items:
3. Your Secret Weapon: The Master Spreadsheet
This simple habit is the most effective way to prevent surprise fees and track true costs.
- Record EVERYTHING:store price, domestic shipping, weight, exact description, and the declared value.
- Track All Fees:international shipping cost, insurance, and your country's estimated duty/tax rate.
- Calculate a Landed Cost:
A detailed record provides a clear audit trail. If a customs charge seems incorrect, you have all the data to query it with the carrier or broker.
Pre-Shipment Checklist
- Are all items in my parcel accurately described on the invoice?
- Have I declared the true total value
- Have I checked my country's de minimis value and restricted goods list?
- Is every single expense for this parcel entered into my master spreadsheet?
- Have I chosen a shipping method balanced for speed and customs reliability?