Small Parcel Export to the U.S.: Comprehensive Guide to Precautions and Service Processes

In the booming era of cross-border e-commerce, exporting small parcels to the United States has become a vital channel for many businesses to expand operations. However, this process requires attention to numerous details and adherence to specific procedures to ensure smooth delivery.

I. Precautions

(A) Customs Policies and Tariffs

1. Duty-Free Threshold
   The U.S. currently exempts imported goods valued under $800 from duties, but policies are subject to change. In the first half of 2025, the White House adjusted tariffs for small parcels, reducing the ad valorem rate for parcels under $800 from 120% to 54% while maintaining a $100 specific duty per item. Businesses must closely monitor updates on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official website or through professional foreign trade platforms to avoid cost increases or clearance delays due to policy changes.
2. Commodity Classification and Tariff Rates
   Accurate classification of exported goods is crucial, as different categories carry varying tariff rates. For example, common small-parcel items like clothing, electronics, and toys have distinct tax rates. Refer to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) issued by CBP to verify the exact tariff number and rate for each product. Incorrect classification may lead to high duty supplements, cargo detention, or fines.
3. Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties
   Some Chinese goods, such as certain steel products and solar energy products, may face anti-dumping or countervailing duty investigations in the U.S. Before exporting such items, confirm whether they fall under relevant investigations and understand corresponding response measures and declaration requirements. Consult professional customs brokers or trade lawyers to mitigate potential trade barrier risks.

(B) Product Compliance

1. Intellectual Property Protection
   The U.S. strictly enforces intellectual property rights, prohibiting counterfeit or pirated goods. Ensure that exported small parcels and their packaging do not infringe on any intellectual property, such as unauthorized use of trademarks or patented designs. Before shipping, inspect the product’s appearance, labels, and instructions. For self-owned brand products, complete trademark registration and patent applications in advance and retain relevant certificates for customs inspection.
2. Product Safety Standards
   Different products must comply with corresponding U.S. safety standards:
   • Children’s toys must meet standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), including physical-mechanical performance, flammability, and chemical toxicity requirements.
   • Electronic products must adhere to electromagnetic compatibility standards of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
     Provide test reports and certification documents before export to prove compliance with U.S. safety regulations, avoiding cargo seizure or destruction due to safety issues.

(C) Packaging and Labeling

1. Packaging Requirements
   Packaging must be durable to protect goods during long-distance transport. Use sturdy cartons or wooden boxes filled with cushioning materials (foam boards, bubble wrap, sponge, etc.). For fragile items, enhance protection and affix “FRAGILE – HANDLE WITH CARE” labels. Note size and weight limits:
   • Most logistics channels restrict the longest side of a parcel to ≤1.5 meters, with a weight limit of 31KG (volumetric weight = length×width×height / 6000, in cm).
   • Parcels under 2KG must have a combined length, width, and height ≤90 cm.
2. Clear Labeling
   Clearly mark the outer package with the recipient’s name, address, contact information, and the sender’s details. Addresses should include the street, house number, city, state, and ZIP code. Attach a detailed packing list stating the product name, quantity, and value for customs inspection and recipient verification. For parcels containing batteries or other special items, affix corresponding hazard labels.

II. Service Processes

(A) Selecting Logistics Channels

1. International Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
   • Advantages: Fast delivery (3–5 days), excellent service, strong traceability. Ideal for urgent or high-value parcels.
   • Considerations: Higher costs; strict size/weight limits. For example, DHL charges by first weight and subsequent weight for parcels under 21KG, with unified per-kilogram pricing for 21KG and above.
2. Postal Parcel Services (China Post Registered Parcel, International E-Packet)
   • Advantages: Wide coverage, affordable prices. International E-Packet allows real-time tracking on the day of dispatch, with customs clearance and delivery by U.S. Postal Service (USPS) within 4–6 working days.
   • Considerations: Slightly slower than express services; potential delays during peak seasons.
3. Dedicated Logistics Lines
   • Examples: Meiyoubao, designed for U.S. cross-border e-commerce sellers, featuring single-parcel customs clearance by USPS and door-to-door delivery within 4–6 working days.
   • Advantages: Optimized for small parcels, with stable timeliness and pricing between international express and postal services.

(B) Cargo Handover and Operational Processes

1. Cargo Preparation
   Complete packaging and labeling, and organize documents like packing lists and invoices. Invoices must detail the product name, quantity, unit price, total value, country of origin, etc., ensuring consistency with the actual goods.
2. Order Placement and Pickup Reservation
   After selecting a logistics channel, place an order via the company’s website, customer hotline, or e-commerce platform. Fill in sender/recipient information and cargo details. Some providers offer door-to-door pickup; otherwise, deliver goods to the designated warehouse.
3. Cargo Warehousing and Security Inspection
   Upon arrival at the warehouse, staff will verify the quantity, weight, and size of the goods and conduct security checks for prohibited items. Inconsistencies between goods and declarations or the presence of prohibited items may result in shipment delays or fines.
4. Customs Declaration and Clearance
   • Export Declaration: The logistics company will declare goods to Chinese customs.
   • Import Clearance in the U.S.: Upon arrival, U.S. customs will inspect the goods. Inaccurate declarations or non-compliant products may require supplementary documents, duty payments, or other penalties. To expedite clearance, truthfully declare the goods’ value and purpose, and provide necessary certificates/test reports.

(C) Transportation and Delivery

1. Transportation
   After customs clearance, goods will be transported to the U.S. via air, sea, or land. Track the shipment status in real time through the logistics provider’s system, including flight information, transfer points, and estimated arrival time.
2. Delivery and Sign-off
   Local couriers will deliver goods to the recipient’s address. The recipient should inspect the parcel for completeness and damage before signing. In case of issues (damage, shortage), refuse delivery and contact the sender or logistics company promptly to resolve the problem.