International parcel checklist · v1 · September 2026
Work down this list before you buy a label for a parcel that crosses a border. Most customs delays come from a step on this list being skipped.
01Can it go?
- Checked the destination’s prohibited and restricted items for the service I am using (post and couriers keep different lists).
- Nothing dangerous: no aerosols, flammable liquids, loose lithium batteries, perfume by air unless the service allows it.
- Any permit, licence or certificate the destination needs is ready (plants, food, medicines, animal products).
02Customs declaration
- Each item described specifically (“cotton T-shirt”, not “clothes”).
- Quantity, weight and value entered per item, in the currency paid.
- Country of origin is where the goods were made, not where they ship from.
- Correct contents type: merchandise, gift, documents, sample, return or other.
- HS code added for goods that are sold.
- Chosen what happens if it cannot be delivered: return or abandon.
- Value is the true price paid. Sold goods are never marked as a gift.
03Duties and taxes
- Estimated the duty and VAT, GST or GCT the recipient will owe.
- Decided who pays: recipient on delivery, or sender in advance (DDP).
- Told the recipient in advance if they will be charged on delivery.
04Packing
- Smallest strong box that fits the item with cushioning on every side.
- Items wrapped separately; nothing moves when the box is shaken.
- Sealed with wide packing tape along every seam, top and bottom.
- Old labels and barcodes removed or covered.
- A copy of both addresses placed inside the box.
05Measure, then buy
- Measured the packed box at its widest points, bulges included.
- Weighed the packed box on a scale.
- Compared the dimensional weight with the actual weight.
- Compared carriers on total delivered cost, not only the label price.
06Label and hand-over
- Label printed at 100% scale and taped flat on the largest side.
- Customs form attached as the carrier requires (in the label PDF, or in a document pouch).
- Proof of drop-off or collection kept until delivery.
- Tracking number sent to the recipient.
Shipment record
Recipient and country
Carrier and service
Tracking number
Declared value and currency
Date sent
Free tools that help with steps 1, 3 and 5: prohibited items, duty and tax estimator and dimensional weight calculator at kinetixshipping.com/tools. This checklist is general guidance, not legal or customs advice; rules differ by country and change.