Are you an Etsy seller looking to take your business global? But you don’t know where to start when it comes to Etsy international shipping? Then, this 5 minutes-read will get a lot for you!
The following comprehensive guide will illustrate the step-by-step process of shipping your products internationally. From preparing your listings to navigating customs and taxes, you’ll have all the information you need to reach a worldwide audience and grow your sales.
In this article, you’ll likely discover:
- 7 steps to set up Esty global shipping
- The latest international shipping Etsy tips in 2023
Why limit yourself to domestic shipping when the global market is eager to buy your one-of-a-kind product offerings? Let’s now get into it and start your journey to global success!
Grow your multichannel business with LitCommerce
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Does Etsy Ship Internationally?
The answer to the question, “Does Etsy ship internationally?” is a resounding YES!
Etsy makes it easy for any merchant to ship internationally by providing all the information you need on its website. This includes information on delivery methods, shipping rates, package types, estimated transit times, and customs fees so that you can determine your shipping policies.
Shipping with Etsy
But that’s not all, Etsy shipping also offers a complete guide to help you prepare your items for international shipping. This guide covers essential topics such as packaging, labeling, and customs declarations, ensuring that your products reach their destination safely and efficiently.
With all these resources at your disposal, there’s no reason not to take advantage of the opportunity and ship with Etsy globally.
Why should you take your Etsy store global?
Expanding your Etsy store to a global market can have numerous benefits for your business. Whether you’re a seller selling on the top global marketplace like Etsy or looking to expand your existing business, taking your Etsy store global can open up a vast customer base and help grow your business beyond your local market.
Moreover, it allows you to connect with other Etsy sellers from around the world and be part of a thriving global community of creatives and entrepreneurs.
While some sellers may be hesitant to offer international shipping due to cost or perceived complexity, the reality is that if a shopper wants your product, they’ll be willing to pay (WTP) for shipping.
Being an Etsy retailer, you might be interested in: How to Offer Free Shipping on Etsy.
What are the shipping methods for Etsy international shipments?
Etsy has covered all your shipping needs with 3 options: USPS Priority Mail Express International, USPS Priority Mail International, and USPS First Class International Package Services. And if you’re looking for a convenient solution, they also offer a flat-rate option with tracking and insurance included.
Here you can review the three available delivery methods and determine the best methods for your packages. We’ll also rank these Etsy global shipping methods from the fastest to the slowest shipping time so that you can easily find the best one that suits your needs.
Etsy Delivery Methods | Package Type | Delivery Speed | Postage Price |
USPS Priority Mail Express International | Max Weight 70 pounds | 3 - 5 days | Based on weight and location, or flat rate. |
USPS Priority Mail International | Max Weight 70 pounds | 6 - 10 days | Based on weight, shape, dimension, and location, or flat rate. |
USPS Priority Mail International | Max Weight 4 pounds | Depends on the country of destination. | Based on weight and location. |
1. USPS Priority Mail Express International
USPS Priority Mail Express International is the quickest shipping option offered by USPS in this list. This service is perfect for packages weighing up to 70 pounds and guarantees delivery within 3 to 5 days to most destinations worldwide.
With this Etsy international shipping option, you can be sure that your package will reach its destination quickly and efficiently. If speed is your priority, USPS Priority Mail Express International is your unskippable choice.
Besides, this method offers additional services to enhance your shipping experience. With Delivery Confirmation included in the postage price, you can track the progress of your shipment and be updated on its delivery status. Please note that the frequency of tracking updates may vary based on the destination country.
For added peace of mind, all parcels come with $200 worth of insurance from the USPS. Should you need extra protection, purchasing additional insurance from Shipsurance Parcel Insurance Services is advisable, which covers loss or damage of up to $5,000 USD.
Additionally, if the shipping carrier cannot locate your Etsy lost package, you’ll need to file an insurance claim to cover the combined insured value of the lost packages. This requires the tracking number, proof of the item’s value, and proof of insurance.
2. USPS Priority Mail International
USPS Priority Mail International is a second trusted option for sending international packages and envelopes weighing up to 70 pounds.
This service offers a reliable and efficient solution for all your shipping needs but with a slightly longer delivery time than Priority Mail Express International. Your package can be expected to arrive at its destination within 6 to 10 days, depending on the destination country.
In addition to its reliable shipping option, USPS Priority Mail offers some additional advantages, just like the first Etsy international shipping method.
Delivery Confirmation is included with the Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope and Small Flat Rate Box for shipments to some select countries. However, the Delivery Confirmation feature is temporarily suspended in certain countries, as indicated by an asterisk.
And for added protection, you can opt to insure your parcels against loss or damage for up to $5,000 USD through Shipsurance Parcel Insurance Services.
3. USPS First Class International Package Service
The last Etsy international shipping method on this list – USPS First Class International Package Service is a budget-friendly option for sending light packages and envelopes weighing up to 4 pounds to international destinations.
This service is ideal for those looking for an economical option for their international shipping needs. Besides, the delivery time for this service varies by destination country and may take longer compared to the other options USPS offers.
And regarding additional services, First Class International Package Service offers the same benefits as Priority Mail International. You can take a step back and refer to the previous Etsy global shipping method.
Great! Now that you clearly understand 3 Etsy international shipping methods, it’s time to move forward with the most important part of the process – from accurately weighing your package to sending it safely and efficiently to your valued customer. Let’s get started!
How to Set Up Etsy Ship Internationally in 7 Steps?
#Step 1. Measure the weight and dimensions of your package
The first step of every shipping puzzle begins with determining your package’s precise size and weight. This step is crucial as it helps to accurately calculate shipping fees and avoid any potential cost that may negatively impact your profit margin.
SMART TIPS:
Product packaging is an important part of the customer experience. To ensure your products arrive safely and in good condition, it’s essential to take the time to weigh and measure them and to choose the right packaging materials.
With a bit of packaging planning, you can often combine multiple products in one shipment, which can save you time and money.
#Step 2. Use the Etsy International Shipping calculator
To ensure one more step that you don’t incur financial losses, consider utilizing the Etsy shipping calculator. This tool is specifically designed to help only US-based sellers balance the costs and profits of shipping their products internationally.
Here are some ways in which the calculator can be helpful:
- Determine the most cost-effective shipping options: The Etsy international shipping calculator allows you to compare various shipping options so that you can choose the one that offers the best balance of cost and delivery time.
- Set competitive prices: The calculator takes into account shipping fees, taxes, and other costs, allowing you to set a competitive price for your product that covers your expenses and leaves room for profit.
- Make a plan for future expenses: The calculator provides estimated shipping costs Etsy charges for each product, enabling you to plan your expenses and budget accordingly.
#Step 3. Adjust the Shipping Destination Settings
To prevent any potential shipping issues, sellers on Etsy must specify shipping rates and destinations accurately for each of their listings. This includes the following essential steps:
- Select listing: Choose the listing you wish to edit.
- Add shipping destinations: Within the Shipping section of the listing, look for the Dispatch origin section, click on the dropdown menu next to it, and select the country you want to send your package.
- Choose shipping cost for regions: Now, click Add location. After selecting the country you want to ship to, you need to fill in the corresponding shipping cost for each.
#Step 4. Translate your item
There are two main types of translations on Etsy international shipping: manual and automatic. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand the difference between them before choosing the best option for your shop.
Manual Translation:
Manual translation allows you to have complete control over the content and tone of your translations. To start the manual translation process, follow these steps:
#1: Log in to Etsy.com
#2: Go to the Shop Manager section
#3: Select Listings
#4: Choose the target listing you want to translate
#5: Find the Translations section and add your translations
It’s recommended that sellers on Etsy manually translate their shop titles, shop announcements, messages to buyers, shop sections about their shop, and shop policies to ensure the best possible results.
Automatic Translation:
Automatic translation is a quick and convenient option for sellers who want to reach a wider audience on Etsy. However, it’s important to note that automatic translations may not always provide accurate results. Therefore, if you’re concerned about the quality of the translation, you can always turn off the automatic option.
Besides, to learn more about the translation process on Etsy, including information about Etsy international shipping, it’s recommended that you read the details available on the Etsy website.
Manual or automatic translation? Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks
#Step 5. Inform tax and customs fees
When it comes to selling globally, it is important to inform your buyers of any potential fees or taxes they may have to pay when receiving their shipment, especially when shipping internationally.
In accordance with the Taxes and Customs article on Etsy, the seller should be transparent about these fees before the sale is made.
For instance, when shipping to Europe, there may be added costs for the buyer, such as value-added tax (VAT). By communicating these fees upfront, buyers can make informed purchasing decisions and avoid surprises upon receiving their order. This not only benefits the buyer but also protects the reputation of the seller as a reliable and transparent business
#Step 6. Choose an Etsy International Shipping company
As a seller on Etsy, you will need to partner with international shipping companies to ensure the successful delivery of your products to customers globally.
And one of the key Etsy international shipping tips in making this a smooth and stress-free process is choosing the right shipping company. The most popular international shipping companies, including DHL and FedEx, are known for their reliability, timeliness, and global reach.
If you are based in the USA or Canada, you have the option to form partnerships with trusted domestic shipping companies such as USPS, Global Postal Shipping, or Canada Post.
Besides, Etsy has recently made strategic partnerships with shipping companies to support the growth of its international shipping. One such example is the partnership with Chit Chats, one of the leading shipping companies in Canada, to help sellers on Etsy expand their businesses domestically and globally.
#Step 7. Send your products
Etsy International shipping can be a complex and lengthy process, so it’s essential to pay close attention to the packaging of your products. Proper packaging not only protects your product during transit but also demonstrates your professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction.
With proper packaging in place, you are now ready to venture into the global market and reach a wider audience for your business on Etsy.
Etsy International Shipping Tips
1. Use LitCommerce to streamline your order status
This is one of the most convenient ways, especially when you are multichannel selling. By using an automatic system, your orders from Etsy will be transferred to your main online store (e.g. Shopify). Hence, your store will be fully responsible for fulfilling and shipping the items from Etsy to your customers domestically and internationally.
Etsy will integrate seamlessly with your eCommerce store and shipping carriers, giving real-time updates on your shipments and automating shipping notifications to your customers. More so, your customers will always know the latest status of their order, including shipping information, tracking numbers, and delivery dates.
Upgrade your shipping process with LitCommerce plans today and provide your customers with a seamless shopping experience! Start Now!
2. Update to international shipping with Etsy shipping labels
- First and foremost, you will need to purchase a Global Postal Postage label on Etsy.com. Afterward, you can either drop the package off at your local post office or request a pick-up, depending on the availability of the service in your area.
- As you drop off the package, they will send it to the nearest global delivery center in the United States. While your package is there, the system will consolidate it with other packages traveling to the same destination and sent overseas.
- Finally, the local postal service will deliver the package to the buyer with tracking information included wherever available.
This means you will be able to monitor the package’s journey from the moment it leaves your doorstep until it reaches the customer’s hands, providing peace of mind and a better customer experience.
You might also want to read: How to Print Etsy Shipping Label.
Etsy International Shipping: FAQs
- 1. Does Etsy ship internationally?
Yes, Etsy offers international shipping to its customers in 83 countries worldwide, such as Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Canada. The marketplace surely takes pride in providing a variety of shipping options. As a result, Esty makes it possible to send items globally, with an estimated delivery time of 3 to 14 days.
- 2. What are the Etsy international shipping methods?
Currently, there are three shipping methods available for international shipments on Etsy. These methods include USPS Priority Mail Express International, USPS Priority Mail International, and USPS First Class International Package Service.
- 3. How to streamline your Etsy International shipping status?
With LitCommerce – Streamline your Etsy international shipping all in one place. You’ll have complete control and transparency over your shipping process.
The platform integrates seamlessly with your store and shipping carriers, providing real-time updates on your shipments and automating shipping notifications to your customers.
The Bottom Line
Etsy International Shipping provides a fantastic opportunity for Etsy sellers to expand their reach and tap into new markets globally. By following the 7 steps outlined in this guide, sellers can ensure that they are well-prepared for a successful international shipping experience.
Acknowledged tasks from setting up international shipping policies, and managing customs and taxes, to utilizing and monitoring the delivery process, e-sellers can now navigate the complexities of international shipping and increase their chances of success.
Thank you for reading this guide on international shipping with Etsy! LitCommerce hope you found it informative and helpful.
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