Wondering how to ship express airmail to Mexico? If yes, we’ve got you covered. Simply click here for a step-by-step guide today!
Shipping express airmail out of the country can be confusing and scary.
It can be costly depending on the size of the package and the shipping company chosen. There’s also the fear of it getting lost along the way.
Sending airmail to Mexico can be just as easy as domestic shipping with these steps.
Pick The Most Efficient Carrier
Most concerns for shipping internationally stem around the ability to track your package.
Many shipping carriers provide web tracking, but you will want to find a carrier that also has a 24/7 bilingual staff. If at any moment you need to speak to a post office in Mexico, going with a shipping company that has a bilingual staff will ensure effective communication. Continental Expedited Services website will help you learn more about the benefits of a 24/7 bilingual staff.
Choosing a private shipping company has many perks. You can send larger or heavier packages, you typically have more arrival options like door-to-door, and you receive contact when your shipment has arrived.
Private shipping companies will also be able to give you detailed tracking information. This will include confirmation of loading the aircraft and its departure, in-flight tracking, offload and delivery status, and a proof of delivery receipt.
Public companies will provide the basics of tracking, for example, if it has arrived at the midpoint and final post office. More than likely, they won’t be able to tell you if it is in the hands of the person you are shipping to.
Double Check The Restricted Imports List
No carrier will be able to deliver your package if it contains objects or items that Mexico’s Secretariat of Finance and Public Finance prohibits. It can result in your package being rejected, or in the worst case, you will be fined or subject to criminal prosecution.
As a general rule of thumb, perishable food items, electronics, jewelry, currency, lottery tickets, weapons, ammunition, and items that infringe on Mexican copyrights will not be accepted.
If you are sending medicine, you will need to acquire approval from Mexico’s National Institute of Public Health.
Your carrier will also be able to provide you with a list of prohibited international airmail items as well. Finding out ahead of time will prevent your airmail from being rejected or destroyed.
You can find more information on export regulations on the U.S. International Trade Administration website.
Verify The Weight and Dimension Limits Of Your Carrier
The majority of your cost of shipping will come into play when you are finalizing the weight and the dimensions of your package.
Avoid surprises by checking the weight and dimension limits of your carrier ahead of time.
Choosing a lightweight cushion inside your packaging will help reduce your costs, but you may not want to cut corners if it risks the protection of your package.
The postal service will not accept anything over 70 pounds, whereas a private shipping company may.
Using a private shipping company typically gives you more leeway with the size, weight, and shape of the package, as opposed to going through the postal service.
Protect Your Package Properly
If sending a fragile item, you will need to pick out a sturdy box to prevent damage.
The box chosen will have two inches of extra space on all sides of the item. This allows you to cushion the item so that it does not shift during shipping.
Then, use 2-inch wide packing tape on all sides of the box to seal the package. You may need a second layer of tape. To prevent your address label from smearing, place tape over it as well.
If applicable, mark the package as fragile in both English and Spanish. Bumps along the way will happen no matter how hopeful we are.
If sending an express letter or documents to Mexico via airmail, make sure the envelope is properly sealed. Consider using a flat rate envelope to protect the contents of the letter.
Flat-rate envelopes are the cardboard envelopes. You can choose a padded flat rate envelope as well.
Choose How Quickly You Want Your Airmail To Arrive In Mexico
This circles back to picking out the most efficient carrier for you.
You don’t want to be wondering how much longer until your airmail arrives in Mexico, so you need to choose a carrier that has the most shipping options.
Private shipping carriers are more likely to provide expedited the same day, two days, or three to five-day economy services.
Choosing a carrier that has an expansive air freight network means you have the power to choose when it arrives. Consider whether you need the option of door-to-door, airport-to-airport, or door-to-airport services when selecting a provider.
Selecting a carrier with the most shipping options puts you in control of how fast your airmail arrives.
Don’t Forget The Receipt
You’ll need to create a bill of lading either online or at the carrier’s office.
A bill of lading is your receipt, it gives you ownership of the contents of the package. This acts as a contract between you and the shipping service.
The value of the contents of your airmail will affect any additional documents needed for shipment.
A commercial invoice is required if the contents are over $50. If the contents are valued greater than $1,000 you will need to acquire an import license or permit.
If valued over $1,000, it is best to work with a customs broker and private shipping company. Brokers can be found locally, or the shipping company can recommend one.
Wave Goodbye To Your Airmail
It’s now time to say goodbye to your package!
Choosing the most efficient shipping company for you will ensure the safe arrival of your package. The more detailed services your carrier provides, the better for you.
Remember using a shipping carrier with a bilingual staff will provide the best communication on either end.
Private shipping companies are typically able to provide you with step-by-step tracking information and can help you complete your bill of lading.
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