Below are the various international delivery options available through Mail Services, listed from the fastest to the slowest. If you need more information on a specific option, click the logo next to the service you are interested in.
DHL International
DHL is the most cost effective service when shipping internationally.
UPS Ground Service to Canada
UPS Ground Service to Canada is an excellent and affordable way to send larger items safely to Canada. These shipments are insurable and traceable. The time in transit runs from 5 to 10 business days.
Customs information - UPS On-Line shipping software will assist you in creating a Commercial Invoice. All non-document shipments require the preparation of three copies of a Commercial Invoice (two copies for Puerto Rico) - or another document, such as a letter on business or personal stationery as long as it contains all the information an invoice would have.
United States Postal Service
Global Express Mail International is accountable, insured and expedited form on international delivery. The cost of a Global Express Mail International item runs typically slightly less than express services offered by other companies. Customs forms are required on all items send through the USPS internationally if the weight of the item exceeds one pound or if the contents are anything but paper.
As there is no electronic receipt, Express Mail is logged into the book located with the Express Mail supplies. Receipt of Signature can be waived at no charge by having the customer sign the airbill in the appropriate place.
Use the PS Form 2976 for most international mailings. If the item is over four pounds or has a value exceeding $400, use the PS Form 2976A.
Customs Information - Customs forms are required when you send dutiable packages, small packets, printed matter, and parcels to international destinations when either of the following conditions are met:
- The item being mailed weighs over one pound.
- The item being mailed contains anything other than paper.
Global Priority Mail
Global Priority Mail is much like its domestic namesake. The Postal Service claims to give these shipments preferential handling, however, test mailings from the College have shown this service to be only slightly superior to regular airmail service. Customs forms are required on all items send through the USPS internationally if the weight of the item exceeds one pound or if the contents are anything but paper.
Global Airmail (Letter-post & Parcels)
Airmail is the standard service for sending matter internationally. There are several sub-classes attached to Airmail. Letter-post is the rate for mailing sending letters, cards (LC) and small packages (AO) under four pounds. Parcel post (CP) is for mailing other, heavier items internationally. Every country has different limitations in regards to weight and content. Customs forms are required on all items send through the USPS internationally if the weight of the item exceeds one pound or if the contents include anything but paper. In most cases, if the item weights less than 4 pounds, the letter-package rate will be cheaper than the parcel post rate. Over four ponds will require the use of parcel post rates.
Global Economy
Letter-post (LC) is the rate for mailing sending letters and small packages under four pounds. Parcel post (CP) is for mailing other, heavier items internationally. Like Airmail, every country has different limitations in regards to weight and content for surface mail as well. Customs forms are required on all items send through the USPS internationally if the weight of the item exceeds one pound or if the contents are anything but paper.