Cross-Border Package Shipping Service

Cost savings.

First of all, the shipping cost is low. You can save extensive prices from a single delivery. For example, a small 2kg parcel shipped from China to the US. It will cost around $15-20. However, the express courier service might skyrocket prices by up to 300%, reaching $45-$60. Such a cost-saving pattern is lucrative for international buyers looking to maximize profits.

Moreover, if you want to ship multiple packages, that is possible too. The simple tactic is to consolidate orders and make them as a single shipment. You'll effortlessly avoid the extra cost burdens.

A more comprehensive range of product access.

China is the manufacturing hub for the whole globe. Hundreds of billion USD worth of products are exported every year.

All owe to the excessive production of a variety of products. Consumers can dig up:

• Extensive products
• Unique inventory
• DTC access

Simplified customs procedures.

If you are worried about the customs clearance and relevant hassles, relieve them immediately! The service provider handles A to Z customs clearance:

• Prepaid Duties and Taxes. Some service providers allow users to pay their customs duties before shipping. It keeps the consumers confident as they don't have to pay a penny for the borders.
• Easy documentation. Let the shipping company handle your documents. Not complexity. Easy process. Simple handling.
• Faster Clearance. Since your service provider handles the shipping, expect fast clearance.

Tracking capabilities.

Shipments are quick and fast. Make it more reliable by tracking your orders. You can track the orders instantly with your tracking ID. Consumers can get real-time tracking facilities.

Side-by-side comparison with DHL, UPS, TNT, and EMS.

Look at the shipping costs from DHL, UPS, TNT, and EMS. Now, see through the cross-border parcel delivery.

What do you find?

There are differences between these services and cross-border shipments. The detailed comparison of delivery services is as follows:

Price differences for various package sizes and weights.

The prices are more affordable in the cross-border shipments for the small to medium packages. Furthermore, consolidated shipping saves more cost.

Take a look at the detailed comparison!!

Delivery time comparisons.

The delivery time can be faster for USPS or DHL shipping than for cross-border shipping. These international shipping services take less than a week to deliver a parcel. Meanwhile, cross-border shipments take more than a week to complete.

The detailed comparison is:

Service coverage areas.

There are also some limitations on the service coverage areas. For example, the USPS ships products to more than 220 countries. On the other hand, cross-border shipments might explore up to 150 countries. But it depends on your service providers being ready to deliver to several countries.

How much does it cost?

Cross-border parcel delivery comes with various cost structures. Top service providers including USPS, UPS, and FedEx have different prices.

• For small parcels, it presents the lower costs. You can ship packages for $15-$20.
• For medium to large parcels, it is comparatively cheaper than the traditional services. For example, it costs $3 to $10 per kg.

Hidden fees to watch out for.

Some products have constant shipping fees. If they need special handling and extended care, you have to consider all the options out there.

A quick overview of various hidden fees is as follows:

• Customs Duties and Taxes are the most typical hidden fees you may not include. Sometimes, they are prepaid by the company. If not prepaid, consumers have to pay customs fees upon delivery.
• Fuel Surcharges often Based on the local or international fuel prices, you can experience elevated or reduced costs.
• Delivery Charges in Remote Areas. If you are shipping to remote regions based on your country, it can also present a different cost structure. Be ready for the incurred prices.
• Handling Fees for Special Products. Fragile and dangerous items require additional care of the products. In that case, your service provider can charge for extra expenses.

Tips for reducing shipping costs.

Do you want to cut the shipping prices instantly? A few tips can relieve much of the burden on your shoulders.

Take a look.

• Consolidate Shipments. Instead of paying for multiple shipments, spend a single charge on your shipments. Join numerous orders and save the extra expenses.
• Prepay duties and taxes. Avoid the surprise fees later. Contact your service provider and prepay the customs fees.
• Use discounted shipping services. Choose the shipping providers and compare their costs. Get discounted rates for your shipping by selecting only the top suppliers.
• Consider economy shipping. Is your delivery urgent? If not, opt for the economy shipping options. Many shipping services offer economy shipping as well.

Bulk shipping options and discounts.

Shipping multiple small parcels creates a hassle for the management. It even elevates the charges.

Do you want a solution?

Make it a simple choice by asking your shipping company. Ask them about the bulk rates. Instead of shipping 5kg weight, go for 50kg with 20-30% discounts for your shipment.

The cheapest way to send a small parcel.

Cross-border shipments are the cheapest way to ship the products to distant locations. They offer reduced prices.

For example, you ship products weighing 2kg for $15-20 with cross-border shipments. FedEx ships the same parcel for up to $60, depending on your location and shipping options.

Step 1: Placing an Order.

Placing an order starts your journey toward shipping. It comes with various steps and points.

• Selecting products from Chinese suppliers. Navigate to platforms such as Alibaba. Dig out various products. Choose the relevant suppliers. It is straightforward.
• Choosing cross-border parcel delivery. Before you pay the product fee, it asks for the shipping option. Opt for the cross-border shipment option for your parcels.
• The carrier collects your orders. The shipping carrier will collect your orders and confirm their receipt.

Step 2: Order Processing in China.

Order processing in China is a smooth process involving inspection and packaging.

• Order inspection. The carrier needs to confirm the accuracy of shipments. So, they might compare the product details and quantity to avoid confusion. They might even consider the prohibited product assessment.
• Packaging of items. Packaging occurs based on the international shipping rules. It must have quality and waterproofing features.
• Labeling. Attaching a shipping label can reduce the tracking hassles. Shipping labels comprise A to Z information about the products. Labeling aims to provide guidance during and get clearance from customs.

Step 3: First-Mile Delivery.

First-mile delivery commences the game for the ultimate shipping journey.

• Collection of packages from the carrier. Carrier moves toward the warehouses or suppliers. Grab the products to make the first step for the delivery. This is "First-Mile Delivery."
• Transportation to the consolidation center in China. Combining multiple packages into a single shipping is a crucial task. Products are shipped to consolidation centers for this purpose.
• Initial scanning and entry into the tracking system. The entry into the tracking system updates the tracking location for the consumers.

Step 4: Consolidation and Sorting.

Consolidation is a genius idea for saving some bucks. It comes with the following steps.

• Packages are grouped by destination country/region. Suppose you want to ship products to the US. All the packages with the US as their destination undergo a consolidation process.
• Additional packaging or labeling if required. International packaging can be different from the local ones. If additional packaging and labeling are needed, the shipping service also provides that.
• Preparation of customs documentation. The carrier prepares the customs documentation, such as packing lists or commercial invoices.

Step 5: Customs Clearance in China.

Export customs clearance is crucial for the product delivery. However, it is seamless with the proper shipping provider. It involves options like:

• Submission of necessary export documents. The carrier brings in all the necessary documents for clearance. They may range from collection of commercial invoices to product origin details.
• Inspection of goods. Customs authorities check the products to confirm their quality. Plus, it allows if the products are safe or not.
• Approval for export. The carrier gets the product's green signal with approval from the service provider.

Step 6: International Transportation.

International Product shipping involves various steps. These include:

• Loading onto aircraft or ships. The product loading occurs on the plane if you have chosen air shipping. For sea shipping, the cargo goes through the seaports.
• Transit through intermediate hubs. Sometimes, the connecting flights act as intermediate hubs. Products are shipped from one country to an intermediate country and then to the destination country.
• Tracking updates during international transit. Consumers get the instant updates if the products move from one carrier facility to another.

Step 7: Arrival in the Destination Country.

The next stop of your shipping flight is the destination country. It arranges a few steps as well.

• Offloading at port of entry. The unloading of products occurs at the destination country's entry port.
• Transfer to a local sorting facility. The products are then sent to the local sorting facility. Workers scan the products and define their addresses in different cities in the same country.

Step 8: Customs Clearance at Destination.

Customs clearance for imports is according to the local rules and regulations. Consider the following activities:

• Submission of import documentation. Prepare all the import documents. In cross-border shipments, import documentation is extensive. It includes A to Z details about the products with relevant billings and options.
• Calculation and payment of duties and taxes. Based on your inventory worth, import duties apply. You have to pay for that as well.
• Possible inspections or additional checks. If there are additional inspections of your products, they also occur in this phase.

Step 9: Domestic Sorting and Processing.

Domestic shipping to the consumer's addresses occurs in two phases. These include:

• Sorting packages for local delivery. At fulfillment centers, the shipping company scans the products. Sort out the packages and labels to make the final delivery possible.
• Assignment to last-mile delivery partners. Carriers often assign local delivery partners to deliver the parcels. They reach your destination addresses for the final delivery.

Step 10: Last-Mile Delivery.

Now is the step for the final delivery of the parcels. It occurs with the accurate addresses and reception of the items.

Consider:

• Transportation to the buyer's address. The local shipping partners specify the buyer's address. Locate them. Ship them through the trucks or local transport options to the address.
• Delivery attempt and signature collection. The first attempt is successful if the buyer is available at the address. In case of unavailable addresses, delivery providers make multiple attempts.
• Alternative delivery options. What if you are not available to receive the parcels? You can fetch alternative options like pickup from the local sorting facility.

Step 11: Delivery Confirmation.

The game is straightforward once you have received the parcels.

• Update of tracking status to "Delivered" status.
• The shipping company sends a notification to the buyer and seller about the successful delivery and reception of the products.

Step 12: Post-Delivery Support.

Top service providers come with post-delivery support and resolution of all the issues.

• They handle inquiries regarding product shipping. Plus, they help return damaged items.
• Local pickup points receive undelivered or returned packages. If the multiple attempts are unsuccessful, packages are returned to the buyers.

Cainiao Network (Alibaba Group)

Cainiao network operates under the governance of one of the eCommerce giants— Alibaba group. It handles all the cross-border shipments from AliExpress and Taobao.

It offers one-stop solution services to the consumers. Packaging, warehousing, and shipping rely on the Cainiao network.

The vital positive points include:

• Real-time tracking
• An excellent record for timely delivery makes it the most popular player in the market.

SF Express

SF Express is a privately owned shipping company that features elegant shipping services. Featuring excellent warehousing and packaging, it enables fast shipping.

In cross-border shipments, users can harness fast and reliable shipping services. Working since 1993, it presents an excellent view of the following benefits.

• Affordable shipping to consumers
• Easy and fast shipping services are available in the town.

China Post and EMS (ePacket)

You might have heard of the China Post and EMS. It is a state-owned shipping service that reaches more than 150 countries.

AliExpress, Wish, or eBay use the China Post and EMS services for small packages. It is because of efficient tracking and quick delivery.

The key points are:

• Cost-Effective option for the small packages.
• Broad access to consumers in more than 150 countries.

YunExpress

YunExpress is one of the crucial players in the market because of its integration with Amazon and eBay. Even if you work on AliExpress, it works very well.

Featuring extensive shipping solutions, its cross-border shipments are one of the cheapest solutions.

The benefits include:

• Quick and efficient shipping solutions with affordability.
• Integration with eCommerce platforms makes it an easy option.

4PX Express

4PX Delivery Service has invested more than 20 years in the eCommerce shipping industry. Its extensive solutions and detailed shipping options facilitate the users.

Don't worry about shipments; they are top-class and impactful. The key features are:

• It has partnerships with leading platforms such as Alibaba or Amazon.
• Cost-effective shipping is available to the users.

ZTO Express

Known for its local shipping support, ZTO Express has an elevated consumer reputation.

Apart from domestic shipping, it nurtures international shipping services for consumers.

The benefits include:

• Integrated logistics network with excellent shipping services.
• Influential customer support that resolves all your problems instantly.

STO Express

STO Express has over 30 years of experience in the shipping industry. It is another top company with the top shipping facilities in the market.

It has contracts with AliExpress and many other B2C platforms. It is known for its:

• Cheaper shipping compared to other competitors
• Excellent customer service, ready to resolve all your questions in a blink.

Yanwen Express

Are you purchasing from AliExpress or eBay in China? Yanwen Express is an exciting shipping service operating globally and known for its shipping solutions.

With 20+ years of expertise, it is beneficial in the following aspects:

• Affordable shipping services for consumers on Amazon and other platforms.
• Global shipping and real-time tracking services.

DHL eCommerce

Who doesn't know DHL? Apart from traditional international delivery, it offers cross-border shipments. With over 50 years of expertise, it has earned a reputation and respect from the users.

The key features of DHL eCommerce include:

• Access to 220+ countries makes it an ultimate choice for your products' shipping.
• Reliable and global shipping solution with a positive rating.

FedEx Cross Border

FedEx has started its cross-border shipments for eCommerce parcels since 2014. Its integration with giant eCommerce platforms such as Shopify and Amazon is no surprise.

It features one of the most reliable shipping networks with the following features:

• Giant network with access to global regions in most countries.
• Known for its extensive and reliable shipping solutions.

UPS i-parcel

UPS belongs to the same category as the DHL and FedEx. It is one of the top shipping companies having traditional and cross-border international shipments.

It launched its cross-border shipments 10+ years ago. The benefits of the UPS i-parcel include:

• It offers affordable pricing compared to other shipping services.
• Strong customer support can provide you with instant solutions.

AliExpress Standard Shipping

AliExpress is a top B2C platform known for its affordable and global shipping. It has an integrated shipping solution that comes with a variety of cross-border shipment options.

Its extensive services bring positive solutions to consumers. The key benefits of the AliExpress Standard Shipping are:

• Fast and reliable shipping to various global countries.
• The reputation of AliExpress is no hidden fact.

Wish Post

The name highlights its connection with the Wish platform. Founded in 2010, it offers cross-border shipping solutions to its users.

The benefits of working with the Wish Post include:

• Affordable shipping costs.
• The Integrated Wish platform makes it a more reliable service.

CNE Express

CNE Express is a shipping hub for global consumers. AliExpress, eBay, and Shopify integration make it a one-click shipping solution.

The crucial features include:

• Economical and fast shipping services
• Competitive rates for cross-border deliveries.

Sunyou Economic Air Mail

Sunyou Economic Air Mail Service is one of the top service providers known for its flawless cross-border shipment services.

Founded in 2008, Sunyou Economic Air Mail offers one of the fastest and safest shipping solutions.

• Budget-friendly international shipping services are there.
• Real-time tracking services are available for the parcels.

Factors to consider.

• Remember the pricing structures of various services. The best practice is to compare the costs and assess the shipping quality. Choose the one that is ready to deliver your orders on time.
• Delivery time. Timely delivery is crucial for everyone. So, opt for the company that has a previous record of timely delivery.
• Do you want to choose a service that is often late and doesn't provide tracking? Abandon such partners. Assess past consumer reviews and select the top company.
• Tracking. Who doesn't want to track the orders? Meet with the service that comes with real-time monitoring. Also, confirm the notification process for the tracking updates.

Tips for evaluating different services.

Evaluation and selection of the best pick service is necessary. It is simple and efficient with the following tips.

• Compare Quotes. Get quotes from all the shipping providers. Set them side by side and compare them. Whoever fits your criterion is your choice.
• Read customer reviews. Set standards by assessing the quality reviews. Read how customers have provided feedback on different products.
• Check records. What is the shipping provider's record for the delivery? Anything above 90% is a good record for the users.
• Evaluate reach. Can the shipping provider reach your address? Yes, it can be your stop as well.

Common customs issues and how to avoid them.

You can come across various customs issues. These include:

• Undeclared goods. If some goods are not declared well and don't have the proper documentation, you won't get clearance. Ensure the appropriate documentation and declaration.
• Prohibited items. Learn about prohibited items. Don't ship them. The result will be delayed shipping.
• Incorrect Tariff codes. Using the wrong codes can also block a delivery by the customs official. Check the HS code and ensure the accuracy.

Understanding duties and taxes.

Taxes and duties vary on the import borders.

• Duties and import taxes. Some countries have implemented VAT taxes. While others offer the tax-free import. Understand your destination country. Learn about the local rules.
• Prepaid duties. Learn about the DDP and DAP. In DDP, customs duties are prepaid. In DAP, consumers have to pay at the destination address.

Required documentation for smooth delivery.

Customs require various standard documents. Take a look!!

• Commercial Invoice includes A to Z information about your products. It highlights buyer, seller, and product details.
• The packing list comprises the product quantity and weight details.
• Customs declaration form. This form tells the products and purpose of the shipments. Customs can also evaluate if there are some pending dues.
• Certificate of origin. Trade agreements sometimes require a certificate of origin.

Available tracking tools and technologies.

For real-time tracking, service providers have introduced new ways.

• Barcode scanning. A new tactic is to track the order by barcode. Whenever products reach the warehouse, workers scan the barcode. Update the real-time location.
• Mobile Apps and Web Portals. Nowadays, online apps are there. Many service providers help users track orders on their official websites. You can utilize direct tracking facilities through these resources.

What should you do if your package is delayed or lost?

Have you lost your package? Can't track it? Are you facing some serious issues?

Relax! No rush. You must use the proper techniques to evaluate your products better.

These include:

• Contact shipping provider. Move to your shipping provider. Highlight the real issue you are facing. Tell them to track your orders.
• File claim. Some providers offer the claim for lost or damaged packages. It can be the right time to get your money. File a claim and get your bucks back.
• Communicate with customs. Are your packages held at the customs border? They are not lost, but you must pay the reception customs duties.

Communication with sellers and shipping providers.

Contact both parties.

• Seller. Get the shipping details. Confirm them. And ask for further information about the shipping.
• Shipping company. Know the exact time for shipping. Highlight any issues encountered during the shipping process.

Useful websites and tools.

Many websites offer free and real-time tracking of your products. Some apps often ship info consolidation on a single screen.

• It is a hub for rate comparison. List multiple international shipping providers and compare their prices.
• Parcel Track. Consolidate all your tracking information in one place. Track all the parcels instantly.
• Duty Calculator. Calculate the import duties in a single click.

Glossary of important terms.

• HS Code. It discloses information about the traded products. The import duties and taxes also rely on the HS code of the products.
• Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). Prepaid customs duties and import taxes are referred to as DDP.
• Delivered At Place (DAP). The buyer has to pay the price for the import orders.

FAQ section addressing common queries.

Why does the shipping get delayed?

There can be several reasons behind the delayed shipping. They include:

• Customs clearance issues
• Inaccurate documentation
• Adverse weather.
• Peak season

If you want to relieve yourself from the hectic shipping pricing, forget it with the following tips.

• Get quotes from multiple shipping providers. Work with the one who offers a reduced pricing structure.
• Ship during off-peak season.
• Ship in bulk to enjoy discounts.

No. There is no way to track the orders offline. However, some service providers can send tracking updates to your phone number. However, track your orders on various apps, such as ParcelApp and OrderTracker.