shipping label requirements for international delivery

Shipping Label Requirements for International Orders: A Quick Guide

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The global market is growing and even the most distant manufacturers can sell their merchandise in other countries. While the distance is shrinking, international shipping makes it possible for manufacturers to form a link with buyers in remote places.

International shipping labels have become an integral part of product design for e-commerce and retail businesses.

We will discuss the shipping label requirements for international orders so all consumers and manufacturers understand the requirements.

Need for International Shipping Labels

Shipping goods internationally involves a variety of procedures and documentation, with shipping labels being a crucial element in ensuring successful delivery.

Every manufacturer needs to plan these labels in a way that they give away all the information without having to unbox.

Moreover, there are some components of the label that are necessary.

A properly prepared shipping label not only provides essential information for carriers but also helps avoid delays, misdeliveries, or additional charges.

Understanding the Importance of Shipping Labels

components of well designed shipping labelsShipping labels are not just fancy pieces of paper stuck to the carton or the product.

These labels carry essential information and become a part of the brand’s identity. The information on these labels is for carriers, customs officials, and delivery agents. A clear and accurate shipping label can ensure the following:

  • Your package will reach the correct destination.
  • The customs do not misunderstand the information and all the processes are smooth and efficient.
  • Carriers have the information they need to calculate costs and handle the package appropriately.

Failure to comply with shipping label requirements can result in different kinds of penalties including fines, delivery delays, or the return of the package to the sender.

A well-designed and comprehensive international shipping label includes several components that cannot be missed:

  • Sender’s Information: The full name of the sender, the address, and contact details in case of any emergency or inability to reach the recipient. In case of business shipping, or shipping of goods in bulk, the sender’s information might not be a person’s name but a business name and address. The contact details can be of the export manager or the person in charge of sending the goods.
  • Recipient’s Information: The full name and address of the person who has to receive the package. In the case of industrial shipping, the information will include the name of the business, the office details and the contact details of the person who is in charge of receiving the shipping. Most containers and heavy freight items are not delivered to the address but are kept at the port and the recipient is responsible for collecting. Nevertheless, the complete information has to be mentioned.
  • Tracking Number: A tracking number is an identity number of the shipment, and can be used to track the package’s journey. This number is issued by the transporter.
  • Carrier Details: The shipping label has to clearly mention the name of the carrier company. If the freight, or shipping service is different from the brand’s own transport, there will be a name shared on the package. The carrier company can also share the logo as an identity mark. Moreover, any specific service information such as priority shipping, or economy shipping is also mentioned on the label.
  • Shipping Date: International shipping requires the shipping date so that the carrier can follow any expiration, or storage instructions according to the shipping date. For example, if a shipping label says, not to be used after ten days, the shipping date will help decide if the product is expired or should be destroyed.
  • Barcode: A scannable barcode that stores the package’s tracking number and other details.
  • Customs Information: For the convenience of the customs department, a detailed description of the contents must be included on the label. The declared value of the items must also be included. Every item label must include the Harmonized System (HS) code for clear classification according to the nature of the product. Moreover, the country of origin of the goods must also be mentioned.
  • Weight and Dimensions: The exact weight and dimensions of the package have to be mentioned on the label. Along with these details, the dimensions of the package have to be mentioned.
  • Delivery Instructions: Any specific instructions for the carrier or delivery personnel have to be added to the label.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To prevent unnecessary delays and complications, steer clear of these common shipping label mistakes:

  • Incomplete Information: Ensure both sender and recipient details are complete and accurate.
  • Illegible Labels: Use high-quality printing to avoid smudges or faded text.
  • Incorrect Customs Declarations: Be truthful about the contents and value of the package.
  • Missing HS Codes: Failing to include the correct HS code can lead to customs delays.
  • Improper Placement of the Label: Place the label on a flat surface and ensure it is fully visible.

Special Considerations for Specific Regions

Different countries may have unique requirements for shipping labels. Here are some examples:

  • European Union (EU): The requirements for international shipping labels in this region are unique. You would require an EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number for businesses that will be receiving the package. Moreover, an additional VAT would be applied to some products.
  • China: The Chinese authorities require Chinese translations for item descriptions in some cases. Restrictions on certain categories like electronics or cosmetics must be followed.

The Role of Technology in Simplifying Shipping Labels

Modern technology has made it easier than ever to create accurate and compliant shipping labels. Tools such as shipping software. There are platforms like ShipStation and EasyPost that integrate with carriers to automate label creation.

E-commerce integrations are required since this kind of retail business is on the rise. Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Shopify often provide built-in tools for generating shipping labels.

Moreover, numerous mobile apps make shipping labels easier. Carriers like FedEx and UPS offer apps for on-the-go label creation and tracking.

Conclusion

Creating accurate and compliant shipping labels for international orders is an essential part of brand promotion and business. If you want to contribute to global trade efficiently, you can follow the information above to ensure seamless international trade.

By understanding the required components, brand owners can avoid mistakes and can use technology to ensure smooth business and shipping processes.

Moreover, you can prevent costly delays if you follow the tips shared in this article.

If you’re interested in learning more about our label services and would like us to provide you with a FREE quote, trust the experts at M&R Label to help you!
Call Us at (708) 534-6621 or Request a Quote!

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