6 Tips To Make Cross-Border Shipping Seamless

With international shipping, you can access markets around the world. However, before sending any shipments, there’s a lot to know. Cross-border shipping is a great opportunity for growth, but it comes with complex regulations and customs clearance procedures. Cross-border transport involves a lot of paperwork, logistic planning and communication. To make your cross-border shipping process easier to navigate, here are a few essential tips: 

Ensure All Documents Are Correct

The most essential part of shipping and border crossing is the paperwork. In order to avoid delays or hefty fines, you want to ensure that the cargo is accompanied by the necessary paperwork and that the paperwork is filled out correctly. One of the most essential documents to pay close attention to will be the customs invoice, as it will be necessary to clear the shipment across the border. To create a customs invoice you can use Zipments invoice easy template, which uses AI technology to fill in the tariff code as well, saving you time and effort. 

The invoice has to contain accurate contact information for the shipper and consignee, as well as country of origin, value of items and shipment, and the list or description of what is within the shipment. Other documents you will need can often include:

• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin
• Packing List
• Proof of Delivery

Use a Good Broker

Customs brokers are an important intermediary between shippers and customs officials, and their job is quite complex. You want to make sure you are using a licensed broker, who specializes in your type of cargo as well. The broker is responsible for helping calculate and pay duties, fees or taxes, as well as ensuring all paperwork is completed and submitted, so it is important to be picky with your broker.

You also want to make sure that you are properly communicating with the broker, so that they know they are working with you and have power of attorney to submit your documents or liaise on your behalf. One of the most common errors that may occur is lack of communication, leading to insufficient paperwork and thus delays at the border, due to the broker not being aware they are working with a client. You need to register with your broker and make sure you are on the same wavelength.

To avoid miscommunications and delays, Zipments allows for seamless communication between shippers, brokers and drivers. The platform provides greater visibility and ease in communicating back and forth or gathering important documents. All of your customs documents can be held in one space, including easy form templates. You can also access a broker directory, for any necessary contact information.

Gain Understanding of Customs Procedures

You want to familiarize yourself with how customs clearance works, in order to save time. The shipment is usually not going to be cleared until fees or duties are paid. Communicating with the broker allows you to know how your package is coming along, and whether there are delays or issues. Documents need to accompany the shipment and the carrier needs their PARS/PAPS, as well as SCAC/Carrier Code in order to be able to cross the border. 

When it comes to duties, you will want to know whether your shipment is DDP or DDU. In shipping terms, DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) means that the merchant or shipper is paying for the taxes and duties, and usually will be billed by the carrier after the delivery.  DDU (Delivery Duty Unpaid) means that the consignee or buyer is going to be paying taxes and duties on the shipment, and both parties should know ahead of time if this is the case.

Utilize Tracking Technology

It is essential to make sure that you are keeping your eye on the shipment every step of the way, so that any issues can be addressed quickly. Technology now allows for real-time tracking and early electronic document submission, which speeds up your customs clearance process. You want your ACE or ACI eManifest filed early and correctly. The PARS/PAPS status can be tracked for shipments, to find out whether a shipment has been cleared to cross or not, ahead of time. Early clearance ensures that the shipment has sufficient documentation and can cross. 

To access real-time PARS/PAPS tracking you can use Zipments, which provides you with easy access to your clearance status and easy form templates for all the documentation you may need to submit.

Plan Ahead For Your Costs

Since international shipping is subject to duties, fees or taxes, it will be important to do your research and prepare early, as to not have any surprises. If you are shipping to Canada, you can use the Zipments.io duties and fees calculator. Simply input your information and see an estimate of your potential fees, so that you can budget for the shipment, and ship your goods with knowledge of what to expect.

Canada Duties and Fees Calculator 

Duties and fees are inevitable, so if you are factoring them into the price of your items, it will be important to communicate that with your customers as well. Take into account currency conversions and price the product in accordance to the market you are sending the product to. Review competitors and make sure you pricing is accessible and fair, but beneficial to your bottom line.

Partner With The Right Carrier

An essential aspect to cross-border shipping will be the carrier you may choose to work with. The carrier has the responsibility to take the cargo across the border, so it is important to familiarize with their policies and procedures. Consider cost, insurance options, customer service and reputation in your choices. You will need a bonded carrier if your goods are in-bond, as well as a carrier certified to do cross-border work. Some may even opt to use multiple carriers, especially during peak season or busier times of the year as this allows for quicker transport. When using multiple carriers, you can negotiate rates a little bit more easily, as you are choosing from a wider range of carriers.

Carriers who are looking to expand their business can access thousands of brokers when they use Zipments to track PARS/PAPS, as it allows brokers to know which port you like to cross at. When you complete the carrier profile on the website, you are also allowing brokers and shippers to note the type of cargo you haul and equipment available, increasing your business opportunities.

Cross-border shipping is a great way to reach new customers and expand your business. But it can be confusing, time consuming and expensive. Cross-border transport involves changing regulations and a lot of paperwork. Make sure you have all necessary documents on hand before you start your shipment. When you know where to begin and how to organize the process, things do get easier. Allow technology to work for you, and you will be able to ship with ease!