Guide to shipping to the USA

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to shipping to the USA.

Whether you're a small business owner, an online seller, or an individual looking to send packages across the pond, we've got you covered from prices starting from just £4.26!

Our services

At Transglobal Express, we specialize in fast, reliable next-day delivery services spanning the United States. From documents to bulky items on pallets, we've got you covered. Plus, we offer a range of options including USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL, ensuring your parcels reach their destination securely and affordably.

USA Customs Information

Shipping from the UK to the USA is a breeze with Transglobal Express. We streamline the customs clearance process for you, ensuring that all necessary documents are generated accurately. Our aim is to save you valuable time and reduce any hassle.

To make your shipping experience even smoother, we offer a range of efficient tools designed to simplify the process regardless of being a business or an individual. However, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations set by US Customs & Border Protection, as they can be quite strict.

Fortunately, for businesses, the import de minimis limit is set at $800, meaning goods valued under this amount can be imported duty-free and without the need for a customs declaration. This aligns perfectly with our USPS service, specifically designed for shipments within this limit.

When preparing your shipment, it's essential to include both a commercial invoice and an air waybill without exception, regardless of the contents. We also advise identifying the specific category of your items to determine if any additional documentation or information is required. For personal goods, completing an 'unaccompanied articles' form is necessary, and for electronics, an additional FCC form must be filled out.

Shipping food items

When deciding to send food to the USA its important to understand what you can and can’t send, this mainly falls under if the item is a perishable or non-perishable item, or if a particular item is specifically forbidden.

For example, Kinder eggs are banned in the USA because there is a ban on toys embedded in confectionary. Also, FDA prior notice is required when sending any kind of food to the USA - you can download a PDF guide (right-click, Save As) for registering with the FDA.

What you can send? (Non-perishable items)

• Items sealed in original packaging.
• Food which has a long shelf life.
• Chocolate (non-perishable, learn how to send chocolate).

What you can't send? (Perishable items)

• Food that may spoil during transit.
• Foods with short shelf life.
• Dairy Products.

Packing your parcel

When sending your items to the US, they undergo multiple handling processes and are exposed to diverse conditions throughout the long journey. To safeguard your parcel and ensure it arrives safely and intact, it's crucial to utilize proper packaging.

Below, you'll find list to help you prepare your shipment effectively:

• A sturdy cardboard box
• Packaging tape.
• Padding material (bubble wrap, kraft paper or loose fill polystyrene).
• Edge protectors (optional).

Additionally, we suggest familiarizing yourself with the appropriate addressing format for your parcels or letters to ensure they reach their intended destination. In the United States, addresses typically fall into two common categories: residential and PO Box.

Any questions? Get in touch! We’re always happy to help. You can reach us by phone, email or live chat .

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