Need advice on trading internationally

[3kids4me]

I'm about to make two trades to two different people, one in Japan and one in Germany. Is there anything I should know about shipping to these countries? I will insure both pins...does it cost more than insuring for domestic shipment?

Thanks!

 

[Dom13]

You have to fill out a customs form for each one. It is a small form that asks what you are sending (lapel pin(s) ), the approximate RETAIL price, and your name and address and the name and address of the person you are sending it to. It also asks whether it is a gift, merchandise or commercial sample. I usually check gift at the advice of several postal employees. I also print 2 sets of labels with my address and thiers to make it easier to fill out the form.

 

[Luv2Roam]

I bet you will change your mind on insuring once you hear the cost....

 

[3kids4me]

Well don't keep me in suspense until I go to the post office!! How much does it cost to insure?

 

[n2mm]

Go to the postal site USPS.com and click on international shipping. It will give you the options available. Insurance is not always available. If you have one pin, your weight should be around 1 ounce. I always print a copy of the print out in case there is any question on how much it costs. I've sent pins to the UK and to France. So far all has been well and actually my package to the UK arrived there in 3 days! Better than alot of my US shipping arrival dates lately. I've never insured any of the international package....too much $$. And as mentioned you do need to do the little customs form. Marked gift, since no money exchanged hands. (They are giving you a pin and you are giving them a pin.) Good Luck!

 

[Luv2Roam]

Don't be surprised if the insurance to Germany costs twice as much as the value of your one pin you are mailing.

 

[cathy1140]

3kids4me

Ive been trading mostly with Japan. I sent it out Air Mail no insurance. and I haven't had a problem.. You do have to fill out a form and I put Disney pins and price. and check gift.

Germany and France. Cost a little more and they have to pay duty after a certian price I think it's $100.00. Once I made a big trade about 10 pins and put a value of a little over $100.00 and she had to pay duty.

Hope I helped you a little.

Cathy