The United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the most popular postal services in the United States, known for its reliable and affordable domestic and international shipping services. But have you ever wondered who USPS uses for international shipping? Let’s delve into this topic and explore everything there is to know about USPS international shipping.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) handles international shipping itself but also collaborates with several approved shipping partners. These partners include OSM Worldwide, International Bridge, Inc., Kaleidoscope Services, VIPparcel, and Pitney Bowes. These partners assist USPS in providing reliable shipping services for both inbound and outbound packages.
USPS International Shipping Partners
Firstly, it’s important to note that USPS itself handles international shipping. However, it also has several approved shipping partners, including Postal Qualified Wholesalers and USPS Approved Shipping & Returns Consolidators. Some of these partners include OSM Worldwide, International Bridge, Inc., Kaleidoscope Services, VIPparcel, and Pitney Bowes. These partners work closely with USPS to provide reliable shipping services for both inbound and outbound packages.
Security Measures in Transit
USPS ensures the secure transit of packages internationally through various measures. These include customs forms, tracking and insurance, and collaboration with foreign postal administrations. Most Priority Mail International shipments include tracking and insurance, providing an added layer of security for packages in transit.
International Destinations
USPS delivers to more than 180 international destinations, including countries such as Great Britain, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Australia. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other unrelated service disruptions, USPS has temporarily suspended international mail acceptance for certain destinations.
USPS International Shipping Services
USPS offers several international shipping services:
- Global Express Guaranteed®: The fastest delivery speed among USPS international services.
- Priority Mail Express International®: A fast international delivery option with tracking and insurance included.
- Priority Mail International®: A reliable and economical way to ship to more than 180 countries.
Each of these services offers different delivery speeds and features to cater to customers’ needs.
Tracking International Packages
USPS tracks international packages using unique tracking numbers. These numbers can be entered on the USPS website or third-party tracking tools to get information about the parcel’s location, estimated delivery time, and delivery status.
Delivery Times and Costs
The delivery times for USPS international shipping vary based on the service used. Global Express Guaranteed delivers within 1–3 business days, Priority Mail Express International within 3–5 business days, and Priority Mail International within 6–10 business days.
The cost of sending international packages with USPS depends on various factors, including the shipping destination, type of service used, package weight, and size of the package. You can use the USPS International Price Calculator to calculate the expected shipping costs for international shipments.
Size and Weight Restrictions
The size and weight restrictions for USPS international shipping depend on the service used. For example, First-Class Package International Service has a maximum weight of 4 lbs and a maximum length of 24 inches, whereas Priority Mail International can handle packages up to 70 lbs.
Customs and Duties
USPS requires the sender to fill out customs forms when shipping items internationally. The recipient is responsible for paying any customs duties, taxes, or fees assessed by the destination country.
Lost or Damaged Goods
If you experience lost or damaged goods in USPS’s international shipping, you can file a claim for reimbursement. USPS will send a claim packet to the U.S. sender with instructions on how to file a claim.
In conclusion, USPS uses a combination of its own services and partnerships with approved shipping consolidators to handle international shipping. It offers a range of services to cater to different needs, implements measures to ensure secure transit, and provides solutions for lost or damaged goods. Whether you’re sending a letter to a friend overseas or shipping a package to a customer in another country, USPS offers a reliable and economical solution for international shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between USPS Approved Shipping & Returns Consolidators and Postal Qualified Wholesalers?
USPS Approved Shipping & Returns Consolidators are companies that specialize in consolidating parcels for shipment, often offering discounted rates. On the other hand, Postal Qualified Wholesalers are high-volume mailers who meet specific USPS requirements and receive discounted postage rates.
Can I track my USPS international package at all times?
Yes, you can track your USPS international package using the unique tracking number provided at the time of shipment. You can track the parcel’s location, estimated delivery time, and delivery status on the USPS website or via third-party tracking tools.
Is insurance included in all USPS international shipping services?
No, insurance is not included in all USPS international shipping services. However, it is included in most Priority Mail International shipments and Priority Mail Express International services.
What can I do if I need to ship a package that exceeds the USPS international shipping size and weight restrictions?
If your package exceeds USPS’s size and weight restrictions for international shipping, you may need to use a different shipping service or divide your items into smaller packages that meet the restrictions.
What happens if the recipient refuses to pay the customs duties, taxes, or fees?
If the recipient refuses to pay the customs duties, taxes, or fees, the package may be returned to the sender, destroyed, or auctioned off by the customs authorities of the destination country, depending on the country’s regulations.
