How to send a package to the United States?

However, sending a package to the United States can be complicated, given the complexity of the rules, customs regulations, and restrictions to which some products are subject.

Despite this, the U.S. market represents a great opportunity for those who wish to sell abroad using digital tools and look to project their business internationally. Data provided by the European Council shows how the total volume of commercial transactions between the United States and Europe has doubled in the last 10 years.

Furthermore, according to recent statistics provided by Eurostat, European Union member states exported goods to the United States worth 502 billion euros in 2023, representing 19.7% of the total. Trade relations between the two continents, increasingly characterized by strong interdependence, are therefore solid and profitable. For e-commerce businesses looking to seize this opportunity, being able to optimize the operations necessary to send a package to the United States represents a challenge that must be approached with care and attention. Let's see how to do it.

Sending a package to the United States: necessary documents

The complex regulatory system regarding shipments to the United States requires attention, thoroughness, and specific knowledge of customs regulations—all necessary elements to prevent a package from being held at customs, which causes financial losses and buyer dissatisfaction. 

But, what documentation do you exactly need to send a package to the United States? 

This is the essential documentation required:

• Commercial invoice. It is an extremely important document and must specify the following information in English:
• Name and address of the sender and recipient;
• Detailed and precise description of the goods contained in the package;
• Reference customs codes (HS Codes) for the types of goods present;
• Quantity, net and gross weight per item, value per piece, and total value, specifying the currency;
• Country where the products were manufactured;
• Reason for export (retail sale, supply of samples not intended for sale, etc.).
• Shipping label. This is the label placed on the package by the courier service, containing the tracking code as well as the sender and recipient details.
• CN22 and/or CN23 forms. These specify the content of the shipment and its value.
• VAT number or Tax ID. You must include the sender's details and, in the case of a B2B shipment, also the recipient's details.
• Declaration of free export. Certifies that the seller complies with the current regulations in the country to which the goods are being sent.

It is also important to highlight that, in the event that you intend to market food or wine products—for example, sending bottles of wine to the United States—it is necessary to have the FDA barcode. But, which products can be sent without problems and which are subject to restrictions? Here are some indications.

What cannot be sent to the United States?

The United States is a key trading partner for European countries, thanks to the many types of products that can be traded without particular restrictions. However, those wishing to sell online in the North American country must strictly comply with customs regulations and the rules issued by other government agencies regarding imports: any blockage of goods, fines, or delays would involve a loss of time and money. It is also essential to verify that your products are not subject to marketing restrictions or prohibitions. Products that cannot be sent to the United States include:

• Items that infringe international copyright laws;
• Most fresh meats;
• Narcotics and potentially dangerous medications (such as those containing certain types of steroids);
• Goods manufactured in countries subject to a trade embargo;
• Weapons not approved by the corresponding U.S. authorities;
• Protected animal species;
• Products derived from endangered species.

Among the products that can be sent to the United States, but require licenses, certifications, or authorizations from the competent federal agencies, the following stand out:

• Most food products;
• Toys and children's products;
• Firearms and ammunition;
• Gold, silver, and diamonds;
• Household goods;
• Commercial and industrial equipment;
• Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical equipment;
• Pesticides;
• Textiles, wool, and furs.

For companies and e-commerce businesses that intend to ship products to the United States, dealing with all of this may not be easy. Trained and suitable professionals are needed to manage the regulatory context and its variables, depending on the type of product, in the corresponding times and manners. A package blocked at customs risks becoming a cost and creating dissatisfaction for the final customer, generating not only economic damage but also harm to the brand image. For this reason, more and more companies are turning to specialized actors—professionals in the sector capable of choosing the best logistics solutions and generating the necessary documentation to send a package to the United States without inconveniences.

MBE Shipping is the service that helps SMEs and artisans manage international shipping with a 360° approach and full knowledge of all necessary procedures and documentation.

MBE Centers help your company simplify procedures and expand your business through complete support before, during, and after shipping.