How Long Does International Shipping Take?
As a business owner, you're probably always looking for ways to save time and money. So when it comes to shipping products internationally, you want to know how long the process is going to take—and how much it's going to cost. Unfortunately, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to that question. But with this guide, you'll at least have a better understanding of the time frame and expenses involved in international shipping. Read on for more information!
If you're like most business owners, you're always looking for ways to save time and money. And if you've been considering expanding your business into new markets overseas, you're probably wondering how long international shipping will take. Luckily, we've got the scoop on that! Keep reading to learn more.
What is International shipping?
Online trade has opened the boundaries of several countries. Now a person can place an order sitting at any corner of the world. This order will be dispatched to the place mentioned in the order. This shipping of material from one country to another can be referred to as international shipping.
Though shipping was initially referred to as transport through the sea, in later stages, the scope of the word increased, and transportation through land or air was also included in the word’s meaning.
Why Is International Shipping Important?
International shipping is essential, without which the large volumes of import/export of goods are impossible. The global shipping industry plays a vital role by contributing 90% of world trade. Huge machinery and material like petroleum, fertilizers, iron ore, other raw materials, etc. that cannot be transported in significant quantities by air or road can easily be transported through water. International shipping times depend on the distance from country to country.
The standard international shipping times depend on the type of services accepted by the customer. The rates also vary according to the kind of service accepted. However, the global shipping time estimate depends on the service provider.
When shipped through UPS, FedEx, USPS, and DHL, the global shipping time estimate would be as mentioned below:
International shipping UPS: The service provider gives the customer two options: the next flight and 1-3 business days.
International shipping FedEx: This service provider provides 4 options, namely- Next flight, within 1-3 international business days, global priority within 1-3 business days, and economy within 5 business days.
International shipping USPS: The service provider provides 3 offers, namely - Global Express guaranteed where material delivery is done within 3-5 business days; Priority mail express international where the material is delivered within 3-5 days; and Priority mail global where the material is delivered within 6-10 days.
Related: How Late Does USPS Deliver? A Complete Guide
International shipping DHL: The service provider provides the three offers of delivering the material - on the same day or morning hours of the next day or end of the next day.
Related: USPS Priority Mail Vs Priority Mail Express
5 Tips And Reminders Required For International Shipping
1. Understand the shipping options available before international shipping.
2. Check whether the country where the product has to be delivered considers the product as a legal one. Import/export of illegal products will attract legal action.
3. Ensure all the necessary documents are documented.
4. Always ensure your shipment.
5. Ensure that the packing is done perfectly.
Conclusion
So how long does international shipping take? Depending on your chosen carrier and the destination country, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Of course, that doesn't include the time it takes for your products to be processed by Amazon FBA (more on that later).
But all in all, international shipping is definitely something you can factor into your business expansion plans. If you're looking for a reliable and affordable third-party prep service to help get your products ready for Amazon FBA inspection, we'd love to chat with you. Contact us today to learn more about our services and see how we can help streamline your product preparation process.
Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier
For Boxes and Rigid Packages:
- Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
- Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
- Multiply length x width x height
- Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
- The result is your package's cubic feet measurement
Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":
- Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
- 12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
- 349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
- This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier
Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches
For Envelopes and Soft Packs:
- Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
- Round down to the nearest quarter inch
- Add the length and width together
- Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
- Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
- Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
- Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
- Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
- Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"
Restrictions
- Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
- Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches
Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic
- Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
- Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
- Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
- Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
- Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
- No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price
Tips for Maximizing Savings
- Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
- Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
- Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
- Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
- Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings
2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates
Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates
Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.
