Choosing a cost-effective way to ship packages internationally is not just about finding the carrier with the lowest rates. It’s about understanding and efficiently navigating the complexities of cross-border transport so that your shipment arrives on time and undamaged.
As a fulfillment provider with 12 years of experience in shipping packages internationally, we have a deep understanding of all the relevant costs, from carrier rates to customs fees and potential hidden surcharges.
In this guide, we compare real-world carrier fees for the international shipping of four different packages across varying distances. Plus, we share nine key factors that affect international shipping rates and six strategies to lower the total costs when sending a package abroad.
TL;DR:
Key takeaways
The cheapest way to ship most packages internationally is through UPS, USPS, or EMS, booked at a discount through a shipping platform like PirateShip or ParcelMonkey.
Discount shipping platforms typically don’t guarantee arrival times, so you might not be compensated for delays.
If you want to avoid third-party platforms, USPS offers the most affordable flat-rate shipping services for small to medium-sized packages.
DHL’s expedited shipping services cost less than comparable options from UPS and FedEx.
UPS Standard is typically the cheapest way to ship heavy and big packages to Canada, especially if you print the label through a discount platform.
What you’ll learn
Cheapest ways to ship internationally for different package types, distances, and transport speeds.
Real-world carrier fee comparison for standard and expedited shipping options across three routes and four items.
Key factors that affect international shipping costs.
Six tips to lower the cost of shipping a package internationally.
PRO TIP: Are you an omnichannel brand in need of fulfillment services? Red Stag is an award-winning 3PL that offers DTC and B2B fulfillment services. Learn more about our services today.
What is the cheapest way to ship a package internationally?
The cheapest way to ship most packages internationally is through UPS, USPS, or Express Mail Service (EMS)*, with the shipping label purchased through a discount platform like PirateShip or ParcelMonkey.
To be more precise, the most affordable carrier services are usually UPS Worldwide Saver, UPS Worldwide Expedited, USPS Priority Mail International, and EMS Parcel Post.
NOTE: EMS stands for Express Mail Service. The organization uses a vast network of postal operators to ship packages up to 44 lbs internationally. When you ship through EMS, a local carrier executes the domestic leg of the transport and gets your shipment to a freight forwarding depot.
Shipping a package internationally: assumptions and carrier cost comparison
In this section, you’ll find tables with real-world cost estimates for international shipping carrier fees. To get to these estimates, we used assumed packages and distances to emulate different shipping scenarios.
Assumed packages
A bulky and lightweight package is a painting. When packaged, it measures 40″ x 20″ x 7″ and weighs 10 lbs.
A medium-sized item is a 30-lb coffee machine. The packaged dimensions are 15″ x 17″ x 20″.
A relatively small and heavy item is a 45-lb kettlebell. The packaged kettlebell measures 8″ x 10″ x 14″.
Assumed shipping distances
Continental shipping is from New York to Vancouver, Canada.
Medium-distance transcontinental shipping is from New York to London.
Long-distance transcontinental shipping is from New York to Sydney.
Cheapest international shipping services by location and package type
For clarity, we’ll group all the cost estimates into three tables based on transport distance. Each table shows cost estimates for the three assumed packages and compares the cost of the cheapest and fastest shipping services.
The bolded prices represent the cheapest international shipping rates for each product, distance, and transport service. For example, the bolded “$124.75” in the third column below means that USPS offers the most affordable expedited painting transport from the U.S. to Canada.
Carrier cost comparison for continental shipping from U.S. to Canada
| Cost of shipping from the U.S. to Canada | Hardcover book | Painting | Coffee machine | Kettlebell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FedEx Cheapest service |
$41.41 | $118.91 | $114.14 | $135.55 |
| FedEx Fastest service |
$175.55 | $719.25 | $673.41 | $814.96 |
| UPS Cheapest service |
$33.83 | $116.47 | $108.43 | $133.65 |
| UPS Fastest service |
$148.07 | $585.28 | $542.34 | $676.96 |
| USPS Cheapest service |
$30.90 | $82.70 | $162.35 | $238.05 |
| USPS Fastest service |
$59.50 | $124.75 | $253.65 | $362.85 |
| DHL Cheapest service |
$79.44 | $360.50 | $335.02 | $417.85 |
| DHL Fastest service |
$79.44 | $360.50 | $335.02 | $417.85 |
| PirateShip Cheapest service |
$18.14 | $51.39 | $48.09 | $67.57 |
| PirateShip Fastest service |
$26.79 | $127.06 | $125.56 | $149.06 |
NOTE: The “fastest” shipping speeds vary between carriers. For example, if you send a painting from New York to Canada through USPS Priority Mail Express International on April 17, the guaranteed delivery day will be April 23. If you send the same painting across the same distance through FedEx International Priority or UPS Worldwide Express, the carriers will guarantee delivery by April 19.
So, FedEx and UPS cost more, but they will transport the painting faster.
Carrier cost comparison for shipping from U.S. to U.K.
| Shipping Carrier | Hardcover book | Painting | Coffee machine | Kettlebell | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FedEx | Cheapest service | $166.65 | $812.03 | $708.49 | $856.30 |
| Fastest service | $254.25 | $1,166.85 | $1,074.49 | $1,354.46 | |
| UPS | Cheapest service | $185.73 | $785.85 | $737.66 | $908.75 |
| Fastest service | $253.49 | $1,008.86 | $932.00 | $1,188.96 | |
| USPS | Cheapest service | $49.00 | $117.25 | $216.35 | $302.75 |
| Fastest service | $81.60 | $117.25 | $216.35 | $319.00 | |
| DHL | Cheapest service | $92.81 | $611.44 | $562.24 | $722.14 |
| Fastest service | $123.05 | $619.00 | $592.48 | $752.38 | |
| PirateShip | Cheapest service | $27.82 | $114.55 | $137.93 | $167.15 |
| Fastest service | $40.76 | $214.22 | $189.04 | $252.27 | |
Carrier cost comparison for shipping from the U.S. to Australia
| Shipping Carrier | Hardcover book | Painting | Coffee machine | Kettlebell | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FedEx | Cheapest service | $196.67 | $1,362.39 | $1,246.60 | $1,515.00 |
| Fastest service | $250.96 | $1,681.87 | $1,556.24 | $1,973.69 | |
| UPS | Cheapest service | $200.07 | $1,157.21 | $1,068.51 | $1,344.29 |
| Fastest service | $271.76 | $1,368.33 | $1,253.70 | $1,613.37 | |
| USPS | Cheapest service | $48.00 | $158.90 | $332.90 | $519.95 |
| Fastest service | $82.40 | $158.90 | $362.65 | $548.30 | |
| DHL | Cheapest service | $112.54 | $838.30 | $772.78 | $985.72 |
| Fastest service | $120.10 | $845.86 | $780.34 | $993.28 | |
| PirateShip | Cheapest service | $39.06 | $150.94 | $201.81 | $251.62 |
| Fastest service | $46.74 | $217.14 | $263.99 | $353.16 | |
Key factors affecting international shipping rates
Nine factors can impact the cost of international shipping.
Size and weight of the package
01
Carriers charge for shipping based on the package’s weight or volume (dimensional weight*).
For “dense” packages (e.g., books, tools, or weights), the shipping fee is based on the actual weight of the packaged items. On the other hand, carrier fees for large packages that are light for their size (e.g., clothes, pillows, paintings) are based on the item’s dimensional weight.
Dimensional weight is a pricing concept that carriers use to charge for shipping based on a package’s size instead of the actual weight. To check the billable weight of your package, use our dimensional weight calculator.
Size and weight limits in international shipping
Size and weight limits for international shipments are not as straightforward as those for domestic transport. The international shipping process is more complex and has more variables, like destination-country regulations and service-level limits.
Specifically, some carriers apply lower size/weight caps for some services in cross-border shipping.
A few examples of those varying policies include:
USPS has specific weight, dimensions, and value limits for First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS), Global Express Guaranteed (GXG), and flat-rate shipping. These limits are not the same as those applied to Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International (70 lbs max weight and 108″ max combined weight and girth). For a more detailed comparison, review USPS international shipping parameters.
UPS has uniform size and weight limits for all standard (non flat-rate) international and domestic parcel shipping, specifically 108″ maximum length, 165″ maximum length and girth, and 150 lbs maximum weight. UPS also requires a special “heavy-package” sticker for all shipments that weigh over 70 lbs, and they apply a large-package surcharge if the parcel’s combined length and girth exceed 130″. Explore an overview of UPS international shipping services to learn more.
FedEx has lower size limits for some international services. For example, the length+girth limit for FedEx International Ground (to Canada) is 130″, which is 35″ less than the same limit for standard domestic shipping. To explore international shipping costs and options, explore FedEx’s international shipping services.
DHL has different weight limits for parcels going to Canada and to the rest of the world. To learn more, review DHL’s international shipping services.
Finally, if your package exceeds the size limits, it will be shipped as freight. This means it will be separated and secured onto a pallet or in a container. To learn more, see our guide on the differences between shipping and freight.
PRO TIP: Once you’ve chosen the carrier and the transport service for your international shipment, it’s wise to contact their customer service and ensure your package doesn’t exceed any service-level limits or destination-country requirements. This extra step will minimize the risk of surcharges and delays.
Distance to destination
02
With all other things equal, the greater the shipping distance, the higher the transport costs. For example, shipping a coffee machine from New York to London through FedEx International Connect Plus will cost $702.69, while the fee for the same service will be $1,236.40 if you’re shipping from New York to Sydney.
That’s a $500+ difference.
The greater-distance-greater-cost rule has two main exceptions: complicated moves and flat-rate shipping. Here are some examples to illustrate these exceptions:
A “complicated move” involves multiple transport modes and handling points, or it requires extra care, like shipping a glass case to Barbados. Such shipments might trigger carrier surcharges, like “delivery to remote areas” or “special handling.”
Flat-rate shipping involves the use of flat-rate containers and shipping within predefined price groups. If you’re sending a book through USPS flat-rate shipping, for example, the greater-distance-greater-cost rule won’t apply for countries within pricing clusters. We’ll break down how flat rates work in our cost-reduction tips below.
Transport service and shipping speed
03
Express international shipping costs more.
For reference, it costs between $850 and $950 to ship a kettlebell from New York to London through FedEx International Economy or FedEx International Connect Plus. In contrast, it costs around $1,350 to ship the same package through an expedited service, like FedEx International First.
The trade-off for lower cost of economy services is longer transit times. If shipped through an express service, the kettlebell will get to London in two days. In comparison, the package would travel three to four days longer if shipped through one of the economy options.
Percentage-wise, the cost difference is more evident in continental shipping because it allows for ground transport, which costs less but doesn’t take much longer.
For these reasons, continental shipping via express services rarely makes financial sense. In other words, a package going to Canada will arrive in a day, whether by truck or plane.
Transport mode
04
The most cost-effective transport mode will depend on what you’re sending and how fast you need the package to arrive.
For example:
Ground transport is by far the most budget-friendly option for continental shipments, especially between neighboring countries.
Air freight is typically used by express parcel services. It’s the fastest and most expensive transport mode.
Ocean freight is slow but cost-effective (a mere fraction of air-transport rates), which makes it the best option for heavy and bulky commercial shipments.
Chosen carrier or service provider
05
Some carriers focus on moving smaller packages affordably, while others prioritize speed and efficiency.
For example, USPS leverages government networks and international postal agreements to offer flat rates for smaller packages. That’s why shipping a book through UPS from the U.S. to the U.K. costs two to four times more than sending the same package at flat rates via USPS.
FedEx and UPS have similar cost trends for international shipping. In comparison, DHL typically has lower rates because they specialize in international shipping.
Discount shipping platforms
Some third-party platforms have volume-based discount deals with certain carriers. For example, PirateShip has discount deals with UPS and USPS.
On the downside, these platforms do not typically guarantee arrival dates, which means you might not receive compensation or refunds for delays. However, some platforms offer the option to purchase additional guarantees.
So, if you want to send a time-sensitive shipment through a discount platform, ask about their guarantees and potential upgrades.
NOTE: The claims above are generalizations and approximations. To get precise estimates, use the carrier calculators or website.
Customs duties and taxes
07
While customs duties and taxes don’t affect carrier fees, they add to the overall transport expenses (also known as landed cost).
The shipper can pay these charges in advance, which is known as Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). However, in most cases, the recipient pays the duties and taxes in the destination country according to the local customs and import laws.
These fees can be significant.
For example, if you’re shipping a $1,000 laptop to Europe, the customs fees will likely be 5-8%, while the VAT (value-added tax) might be around 20%. That adds a hefty $250-$280 to the landed cost.
Coverage/insurance
08
Carrier coverage is typically free up to $100. For items with a higher declared value*, expect to pay an additional 1-2.5% of the package’s worth.
NOTE: Declared value is your assessment of the item’s worth. It reflects the maximum amount the carrier will pay if they damage or lose your item. In practice, this value also directly affects customs valuations. So, a higher declared value adds to the total landed cost in two ways: through shipping surcharges and higher customs fees/taxes in the destination country.
To illustrate the added cost, let’s say you’re shipping two coffee machines of different values from the U.S. to the U.K. With all other things equal, it would cost $16 more to ship a $1,000 coffee machine than to send one with a $100 declared value.
However, declared-value coverage is not insurance because it’s subject to exceptions and limitations. In other words, you might not get compensated in some scenarios, like damage caused by improper packaging.
To get more comprehensive coverage, look into third-party insurance. It costs more (typically 0.5 to 4% of the item’s worth), but it offers better protection.
Other surcharges and costs
09
Some potential surcharges and hidden costs are typically overlooked in the initial cost estimates for international transport. These costs and surcharges include:
Country-level surcharges (or discounts) to reflect special local transport requirements and bilateral agreements between the origin and destination countries.
Peak-season surcharges that reflect seasonal demand. For example, it costs more to ship around Christmas and Black Friday.
Oversize surcharges as penalties for exceeding parcel size limits.
Cost of packing materials, which can exceed $100, depending on the packing supplies you currently have and those you need to buy.
Tips to reduce the cost of international shipping
Ship in a smaller box
01
If the carrier rates are based on the package’s dimensional weight, you can lower the transport fees by packing the item into a smaller box.
For example, it would cost at least $600 to ship an uncompressed memory foam pillow through FedEx from New York to Madrid. This is because the dimensional weight of a 5-lb pillow is around 30 lbs.
However, if you squeeze the air out and pack the same pillow into a 40-50% smaller box, it will cost less than $300 to ship it across the same distance through the same service.
In this situation, half the size translates to roughly half the shipping costs.
Research before you ship
02
International transport is more complex than domestic shipping. Some transport variables—including everything from compliance regulations to country-specific restrictions—can tack on costs, trigger surcharges, or cause delays.
Thoroughly research all these factors for your destination country and your chosen carrier. The goal of this step is to fully understand the shipping process in order to minimize costs and eliminate surprises.
Alternatively, partner with an experienced 3PL provider that knows how to ship internationally, while managing compliance, avoiding unnecessary costs, and honoring deadlines.
Ship at flat rates
03
Items that are heavy for their size, like books, might be cheaper to ship internationally at flat rates.
In general, USPS’ Flat Rate is more budget-friendly at base rates than the competitor programs, like FedEx Global One Rate or DHL Express Easy.
USPS’ flat-rate pricing model for international shipping is based on predefined containers and country clusters. In other words, to qualify for flat-rate shipping, your item must fit into the USPS predefined envelope or box and cannot exceed the weight limit (4 lbs for envelopes and 20 lbs for boxes).
EXAMPLE: If billed at flat rates, the USPS transport fee for a package shipped from New York to Dublin (3,176 miles) will be the same as for one sent to Bari, Italy (4,499 miles), provided that both packages use the same flat-rate container. This is because Ireland and Italy both belong to Price Group #4 of USPS’ flat-rate pricing classification.
To go beyond examples and see estimated USPS flat rates for your package, follow these steps:
01
Enter the destination country, from-to postal codes, and the package’s estimated value into the USPS Retail Postage Calculator.
02
Click “View Flat-rate envelopes” or “View flat-rate boxes” to see container sizes.
03
Locate the container that might accommodate the item you’re shipping.
04
Choose a service that fits your schedule.
NOTE: USPS usually offers two services for flat-rate shipping: standard/base-rate and expedited. The base-rate service, Priority Mail International, delivers to most major markets in six to 10 business days. The expedited option, Priority Mail Express International, will typically deliver your package in three to five business days.
Ship through economy services
04
Express international shipping services cost significantly more. Depending on the route, that difference can range between 40 and 500%.
To illustrate the cost difference between economy and express shipping services, let’s consider shipping a 30-lb coffee machine to Canada and to the U.K.:
Continental cross-border shipping example: The cheapest UPS service for shipping the coffee machine from New York to Vancouver costs $135.55, while the expedited option costs $676.96. That’s a 400% difference.
Intercontinental shipping example: The cheapest way to ship the coffee machine through UPS (UPS Worldwide Expedited) costs $737.66; whereas, the fastest way (UPS Worldwide Express Plus) costs $932.
BOTTOM LINE: Shipping international packages through express services makes the most sense for urgent transcontinental shipments.
Ship through discount platforms
05
If arrival-date guarantees aren’t imperative, consider booking and printing the shipping label through a discount platform. It’s the most effective way to lower the shipping costs without compromising transport speed.
PirateShip platform is advertised as a way to “Save up to 89% off USPS and UPS shipping rates.” Our data indicates that the claim is not an exaggeration.
As per our calculations, the average PirateShip discounts for standard and express UPS services are 83.34% and 80.30%, respectively, as shown in the table below, which provides costs for shipping from New York to London.
| Service Type | Price Comparison | Hardcover book | Painting | Coffee machine | Kettlebell |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheapest economy UPS service | Price when booked directly through UPS | $185.73 | $785.85 | $737.66 | $908.75 |
| Price when booked through PirateShip | $27.82 | $114.55 | $137.93 | $167.15 | |
| Discount | 85.02% | 85.42% | 81.30% | 81.61% | |
| Average discount on economy services | 83.34% | ||||
| Fastest express UPS service | Price when booked directly through UPS | $253.49 | $1,008.86 | $932.00 | $1,188.96 |
| Price when booked through PirateShip | $40.76 | $214.22 | $189.04 | $252.27 | |
| Discount | 83.92% | 78.77% | 79.72% | 78.78% | |
| Average discount on express services | 80.30% | ||||
Use last-minute discounts
06
To maximize used capacity, FedEx often offers last-minute discounts.
These discounted rates are typically available for same-day shipping and can be 60-70% lower than standard rates. If you find one of these final-chance offers, you might pay economy-service rates for express shipping.
Simplify international shipping
If you’re running an ecommerce business and shipping internationally, the intricacy of moving goods across borders can feel overwhelming. Moreover, the high cost can thin out your profit margins or erase them altogether.
Joining forces with a reliable 3PL provider, like Red Stag Fulfillment, can solve that problem. While we primarily handle domestic shipments, we can refer you to a trusted 3PL partner that handles international shipments.
