Shipping Costs
Shipping costs can be higher for international destinations and can vary greatly based on a number of factors:

• Weight and dimensions of package
• Method of shipment such as Ground, Next Day Air, etc.
• The location you're shipping from (city, province/state, country)
• The location you're shipping to (also called the destination country)

Therefore, costs may vary greatly depending on what, where and how you are shipping. Costs can be considerably higher for international destinations.

Generally, buyers pay additional costs that may be applied on an item such as duties, taxes and customs clearance fees. For example, international rates may or may not include pickup and door-to-door delivery with customs clearance. Your package will arrive at your buyer's door, but he/she might need to pay extra international fees.

Some carriers will offer customs and brokerage services to help you learn more about what you need to tell your buyers about additional charges, duties, and taxes. An "extended area surcharge" may apply to your buyers depending on their international locations.

Transit Times and Services
The transit time for international shipments varies based on where it is shipped from and the destination country. Therefore, it depends on where you're located and where your package is going. International shipments, of course, usually take longer than domestic deliveries. Customs clearance can increase the delivery time if your package is delayed by customs officials. Ensure you fill in the proper documentation carefully to avoid delays for your buyer.

Insurance
You should always insure international shipments if your carrier does not provide automatic coverage. Some carriers automatically protect your package from loss or damage up to $100 (this value depends on your carrier) of your item's value. If your item is worth more than $100, you may want to purchase additional insurance.

Note: It is very important to make sure your item is appropriately packed. If your item arrives broken due to poor packaging, your carrier may not pay your insurance claim.

You should verify whether or not insurance is offered for your items when choosing a carrier, as personal effects (home computers, bicycles, clothing, electronics, etc.) may not be protected.

International Shipping Complexities
All shipments being exported or imported must clear customs to enter the destination country. Specific documentation is required in order to clear customs. Customs is a government agency responsible for regulating shipments entering a country. All shipments being sent to and from a country must clear customs first.

As an eBay seller, you'll need to provide the correct documentation so that your item won't be held indefinitely by customs. Your carrier can easily arrange for customs clearance before you ship.

Note: Additional costs may need to be paid by the seller if items have to be returned because they don't clear customs. Also, goods can be held up if your carrier does not arrange for a customs broker in advance. (Most carriers provide this service automatically).