How to send international mail from us

Sending international mail from the US can be a bit more complex than sending domestic mail, but it's still a relatively straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you send international mail from the US:

Step 1: Determine the Destination Country's Postal Regulations

Before sending international mail, check the destination country's postal regulations to ensure you comply with any specific requirements, such as customs forms, restrictions on certain items, and prohibited items.

Step 2: Choose the Right Mail Class

The US Postal Service (USPS) offers several mail classes for international mail, each with its own weight limits, delivery times, and prices:

  1. First Class Mail International: For letters, postcards, and lightweight packages up to 1 pound. Delivery time is typically 6-10 business days.
  2. Priority Mail International: For packages up to 70 pounds. Delivery time is typically 6-10 business days.
  3. Priority Mail Express International: For packages up to 70 pounds. Delivery time is typically 3-5 business days.
  4. Parcel Post: For packages up to 70 pounds. Delivery time is typically 10-20 business days.

Step 3: Prepare Your Mail

Make sure your mail is properly prepared for international shipping:

  1. Use the correct postage: Use a postage stamp or a postage meter that is valid for international mail.
  2. Use a customs form: Fill out a customs form (PS Form 2976) for packages over 16 ounces or containing restricted or prohibited items.
  3. Attach the customs form: Attach the customs form to the outside of the package.
  4. Use a clear and legible address: Use a clear and legible address on the package, including the recipient's name, street address, city, state, and postal code.
  5. Use a tracking number: Use a tracking number to track your package.

Step 4: Send Your Mail

Take your prepared mail to a USPS retail location or schedule a pickup:

  1. Visit a USPS retail location: Take your mail to a USPS retail location, such as a post office or a mailbox store.
  2. Schedule a pickup: If you're unable to visit a retail location, you can schedule a pickup from your home or office.

Additional Tips

  1. Check the USPS website: Check the USPS website for specific requirements and restrictions for international mail.
  2. Use a shipping calculator: Use a shipping calculator to estimate the cost of shipping and calculate the postage.
  3. Consider using a shipping service: Consider using a shipping service, such as UPS or FedEx, if you need more advanced tracking and delivery options.

By following these steps, you should be able to send international mail from the US successfully.