Cheapest International Shipping: Top Tips for Saving

Shipping internationally can be a major challenge for eCommerce business owners and individuals alike. High costs, customs hurdles, and confusing pricing models often make finding affordable shipping options difficult. Whether you're fulfilling overseas orders or simply sending a gift abroad, the expenses can quickly add up. 

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But don't worry! There are ways to reduce these costs. In this guide, we'll explore practical tips to find the cheapest international shipping solutions, helping you keep your business profitable and your customers happy, all while avoiding unnecessary fees and delays.

Use Shipping Calculators to Find the Best Deals

With so many courier options and constantly fluctuating prices, it’s essential to know how to find the cheapest international shipping rates. This is where shipping calculators come in handy. They let you compare couriers side by side, making it easier to find the most cost-effective option for your shipments.

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They take into account key factors like destination, weight, and service type, all of which have a big impact on the final cost. For example, shipping a package to a neighbouring country might cost significantly less than sending the same package across the globe. Similarly, choosing economy over express services can drastically reduce costs if you're willing to wait a bit longer for delivery. 

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Logistics software is another game-changer, especially for eCommerce businesses managing high-volume shipments. Tools like these help streamline your shipping logistics, reducing manual errors and making it easier to manage international delivery costs.

Best Shipping Calculators for International Shipping

Here are three of the best options to help you compare couriers and rates quickly:

1. Parcel Monkey

Known for its user-friendly interface, Parcel Monkey’s calculator allows you to compare prices from multiple couriers in seconds. Whether you're sending a single package or managing bulk shipments, it helps you find affordable rates for both economy and express shipping options.

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2. ShipStation

ShipStation integrates with major marketplaces like Amazon and Shopify, allowing you to compare shipping rates directly from your sales platform. This tool is especially helpful for automating shipping processes and managing bulk orders efficiently.

3. Easyship

If you’re looking for a platform that offers savings of up to 91%, Easyship is your go-to. Their calculator compares over 250 couriers and offers discounted rates for services like USPS, FedEx, and DHL. It also gives you the flexibility to choose between economy and express shipping options, making it easy to balance speed and cost.

Optimise Your Package Size and Weight

By minimising packaging or choosing the right-sized box, you can significantly reduce your expenses. Most couriers calculate shipping costs based on either the actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is higher. This means even if your package is light but large in size, you could still end up paying more than you expected.

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Volumetric weight is calculated by measuring the length, width, and height of the package and applying a specific formula. Couriers use this method to account for the space the package takes up in their delivery vehicles. By reducing unnecessary packaging and using the smallest box possible, you can secure the cheapest international shipping rates.

How to Measure and Avoid Extra Charges

To measure your package, you’ll need a tape measure for the dimensions (length, width, and height) and a scale for the weight. Be sure to include any cushioning materials or protective packaging in your final measurements, as couriers will assess the package as it is shipped.

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Take a look at these common packaging options and their price points for various destinations:

USPS Flat Rate Boxes

• Small Flat Rate Box: Up to 4 lbs, price starts at $36.45 for international shipping to most destinations.

• Medium Flat Rate Box: Up to 20 lbs, costs around $77.50 for international shipments.

• Large Flat Rate Box: Up to 20 lbs, starting at $102.50 for international shipping.

DHL Express:

• For smaller, lighter packages (up to 4 lbs), prices can start around $45 for international destinations.

• Heavier items, such as those in the 10-20 lbs range, may cost upwards of $100 or more, depending on the destination and delivery speed.

Opt for Economy Shipping for Non-Urgent Deliveries

If you’re not in a rush to get your package delivered, economy shipping is almost always the cheapest way to ship internationally. It allows you to save on costs by trading faster delivery times for longer transit periods. Economy shipping services from carriers like USPS, DHL, and FedEx offer reliable, cost-effective solutions for packages that don’t require urgent delivery.

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USPS, for example, offers several economy options, including First-Class International and Priority Mail International. They are well-known for providing some of the lowest international rates, though they may take between 7-21 days to arrive, depending on the destination. These services often also include tracking, which gives peace of mind without the hefty price tag.

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Moreover, DHL Economy Select typically delivers in 5-12 business days, while FedEx International Economy can take 4-6 business days but still costs less than express options.

When to Choose Express Shipping

If you’re running an eCommerce business with tight delivery timelines, or you’re sending perishable goods that need to arrive quickly, express shipping is essential. 

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For example, FedEx International Priority can deliver packages in as little as 1-3 business days. Similarly, DHL Express Worldwide provides fast shipping options with delivery times ranging from 1-6 business days, depending on the destination.

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However, express shipping comes at a premium. A package that costs $40 via economy shipping might jump to $80 or more for express delivery. It’s important to weigh the need for speed against the higher cost to decide which option best suits your needs.

Leverage Bulk Shipping for Maximum Savings

Couriers often offer discounts for bulk shipments, allowing businesses to send multiple packages at once at a lower cost per item. This is especially helpful for eCommerce companies looking to cut down on operational costs while scaling their business. The more packages you send, the more negotiating power you have with couriers to lock in discounted rates.

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One way to maximise these savings is by partnering with Bezos' global fulfilment network. They manage large volumes of orders and shipments on behalf of businesses, making it easier to qualify for bulk shipping discounts. They also consolidate shipments and streamline operations, passing the savings on to you. 

The Advantages of Partnering with a Fulfilment Centre

Partnering with a fulfilment centre saves you money while also simplifying your entire shipping process. 

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• Warehousing and Inventory Management: They store your products, so you don’t have to worry about warehousing. This includes taking care of inventory management, keeping track of your stock and ensuring orders are packed as soon as they come in.

• Order Fulfilment and Shipping: Once an order is placed, they handle everything—picking, packing, and shipping the product. This saves you time and ensures a fast, seamless shipping process.

• Discounted Shipping Rates: Since fulfilment centres manage large shipping volumes daily, they can negotiate bulk shipping discounts with couriers like DHL, FedEx, and USPS. This means lower shipping costs for your business without having to manage the logistics yourself.

• Faster Delivery Times: Many centres have multiple locations around the world. This allows them to ship from a warehouse that’s closest to your customer, reducing delivery times and keeping your customers happy.

Get the Customs Paperwork Right

Improper or incomplete customs forms can lead to delays, unexpected fees, or worse—your package gets stuck in customs limbo. To avoid this hassle, it’s crucial to fill out the necessary forms accurately and completely. Every package that crosses a border must declare its contents, value, and purpose, whether it’s a personal gift or an item sold through your business.

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Thankfully, tools like Easyship’s duty calculator and Parcel Monkey’s automated customs paperwork make this process easier by providing guidance and even generating the required documents for you. 

Avoiding Unexpected Costs Due to Duties and Taxes

Duties and taxes can vary widely depending on the destination country, the value of the items, and their classification under the country’s customs regulations. For example, shipping to Europe may incur VAT (Value Added Tax), while certain items being shipped to the United States might be subject to specific import duties.

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To avoid unexpected costs and delays, it’s important to:

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• Research the Destination’s Import Fees: Use tools like Easyship’s duty calculator to estimate duties and taxes for specific countries. This will help you understand the true cost of shipping internationally.

• Provide Accurate Information: Always declare the correct value of the items you’re shipping and provide detailed descriptions on the customs forms. Any vagueness or misrepresentation can lead to extra scrutiny or penalties from customs authorities.

• Communicate with Customers: If you run an eCommerce business, be transparent with your customers about who is responsible for paying duties and taxes. Make it clear whether the fees are included in the purchase price or if the customer will need to cover them upon delivery. This will help you avoid potential disputes or abandoned shopping carts.

Choose a Pricing Model That Works for Your Business

Depending on the nature of your business, the package weight, and the destination, different pricing models offer unique benefits. Understanding international logistics can further streamline this process, helping you identify which model works best for your specific shipping needs. 

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Let’s break down some of the most common shipping pricing models:

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• Flat-Rate Shipping: Ideal if your packages are consistently heavy or large. Services like USPS Flat Rate allow you to ship packages up to a certain weight (e.g., 70 lbs for a large box) at a fixed price, regardless of the destination.

• Dynamic Pricing: Calculates shipping costs based on package weight, dimensions, and destination. It’s more flexible than flat-rate shipping, making sure you’re not overpaying for lighter or smaller packages. Couriers like FedEx and DHL often use dynamic pricing, which adjusts according to real-time shipping conditions. 

• Hybrid Shipping: A mix of both flat-rate and dynamic pricing, hybrid shipping allows you to take advantage of different services depending on the package. For example, you could use flat-rate shipping for larger items while opting for dynamic pricing on smaller, lightweight items. 

Use Tracking and Insurance for High-Value Items

Tracking allows you and the recipient to monitor the package's journey from the moment it’s shipped until it’s delivered. This is especially important for high-value or fragile items, as any delay or mishap can quickly turn into a customer service headache.

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All major couriers, including UPS, FedEx, and DHL, offer tracking services, but some go a step further by providing enhanced tracking options. For example, DHL Express offers real-time tracking updates and proactive notifications, giving you full visibility on the package’s progress.

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But what happens if something goes wrong? If you're shipping items of high monetary or sentimental value, or fragile goods that could get damaged in transit, it’s a smart move to insure the package. For a small additional fee, insurance protects you from financial loss if the item is lost, damaged, or stolen while being shipped.

Best Practices for Insuring International Shipments

Insuring your packages is just as important as choosing the right courier. Keep in mind these best practices for ensuring your shipments are fully protected:

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• Understand Coverage Limits: Each courier has different policies for how much they will insure a package. FedEx, for example, provides default coverage for packages valued up to $100, while UPS includes basic coverage for up to $100, with the option to purchase additional coverage. Always check your courier’s coverage limits and add extra insurance if your item exceeds the default value.

• Choose the Right Courier for Your Item: Depending on the nature of the item, one courier may offer better insurance terms than another. DHL, for instance, offers comprehensive insurance policies for both standard and express shipments, with the ability to insure packages valued over $100,000 in some cases. If your shipment involves high-value electronics, jewellery, or artwork, it’s worth reviewing their terms to ensure your item is fully covered.

• Document Everything: Keep copies of the item’s purchase invoice, photos of the item before it’s packed, and any customs forms or paperwork. In case of a claim, having this documentation readily available will streamline the process and ensure you get reimbursed quickly.

• Pack Smart: Use plenty of cushioning material, and if the item is fragile, mark the package clearly. Couriers like UPS and FedEx may ask about your packaging during the claims process, so following their guidelines for securely packing your items is important to ensure your claim isn’t denied due to inadequate packaging.

Explore Regional Couriers for Cheaper Rates

When it comes to international shipping, major players like FedEx, DHL, and UPS are often the go-to choices. But what many businesses overlook is the potential cost savings offered by regional couriers with equally reliable shipping options. 

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They tend to have strong networks in their home countries and nearby regions, which can result in faster delivery times and lower costs for local shipments. If your business regularly ships to a particular country or region, taking the time to research local couriers could unlock significant savings over international giants. 

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Tips for Identifying and Evaluating Local Couriers

If you're considering switching to or incorporating regional couriers into your shipping strategy, these are some steps to help you get started:

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• Research Local Couriers for Target Markets: A quick search or asking for recommendations from local contacts can help you discover reputable couriers. For instance, PostNL is widely trusted across Europe, while Blue Dart is popular in India and Southeast Asia.

• Compare Rates and Services: Some may specialise in express services, while others focus on economy shipping. Many regional couriers also offer specific solutions tailored to the local market, which could provide additional savings or convenience for your business.

• Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look up reviews from other businesses that have used the courier. Check for feedback on reliability, delivery times, and customer service. Websites like Trustpilot or local forums can be useful sources for reviews.

• Test with Small Shipments: Before fully committing to a regional courier, try sending a few small packages to test their service. Track the delivery process, communication, and handling to ensure they meet your standards.

• Verify International Capabilities: Even though they may be regional, some couriers partner with global networks to offer international services. Confirm that they can handle cross-border shipments efficiently, especially if you're shipping products internationally but starting in a specific region.

How Bezos Can Help You Save on International Shipping

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When it comes to finding the cheapest international shipping solution for your business, partnering with Bezos offers a strategic advantage. We streamline the entire ecommerce fulfilment process, from warehousing to delivery, and help you cut down shipping costs, especially for international orders.

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Our global fulfilment network spans across 16 countries, including the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and the US. This enables businesses like yours to store inventory in multiple locations closer to your customers. As a result, you save up to 80% on international shipping costs, a huge benefit if you’re looking to scale globally without breaking the bank.

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We also integrate with over 30 sales channels, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon, making order management a breeze. And our personalised account managers ensure that every aspect of the fulfilment process is handled smoothly, from picking and packing to managing returns. 

With a transparent pricing model, it means no hidden fees—you only pay for what you use. This makes it easier to plan your shipping expenses with confidence. Plus, real-time tracking systems and robust software allow you to monitor your shipments and inventory status at any moment, adding a layer of transparency and control to your operations.

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Get a free quote from Bezos and start maximising your savings today.

Conclusion

Finding the cheapest way to ship internationally is all about making informed choices and optimising each part of the process. 

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• Using shipping calculators can provide instant cost comparisons, helping you find the best deal by factoring in destination, weight, and service type.

• Minimising your package size and weight can drastically reduce costs, especially with couriers that use volumetric pricing. 

• For non-urgent deliveries, economy shipping is often the most cost-effective choice. 

• When speed is a priority, express options can be used selectively for time-sensitive shipments, balancing both cost and customer satisfaction.

• Bulk shipping also offers a valuable opportunity to cut costs, especially for businesses that handle large volumes of orders.

• Partnering with a fulfilment centre as your business scales can help optimise logistics, manage high volumes, and offer competitive shipping rates.

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If you're ready to reduce your international shipping costs while managing large-scale operations, get started with Bezos now.

FAQ

What is the cheapest international shipping option?

Economy shipping services like USPS First-Class International, DHL Economy, and FedEx International Economy are typically the cheapest options for international shipping. These services offer affordable rates but often have longer delivery times, making them ideal for non-urgent shipments.

Which international courier is the cheapest?

The cheapest international courier depends on the destination, package size, and weight. USPS is often the most affordable for small, lightweight packages, while couriers like DHL and FedEx can offer competitive rates for larger shipments, especially with economy services.

Where is shipping the cheapest?

Shipping costs are generally lowest when sending packages to nearby countries or regions with strong logistics infrastructure. For example, shipping between the U.S. and Canada or within the European Union tends to be cheaper due to close proximity and well-established trade routes.

How much is DHL international shipping?

DHL international shipping rates vary based on destination, package weight, and delivery speed. For example, shipping a 2-pound package from the U.S. to Europe via DHL Express Worldwide can cost around $70-$90, while economy options may be significantly cheaper.

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