Customs Forms for International Shipping: Complete Guide

The two main postal customs forms serve different purposes based on shipment value:

• CN22 (PS Form 2976) - The small green form for shipments valued under $400. Simple declaration with item description, quantity, weight, and value. Used for gifts and low-value commercial shipments. Affixed directly to package exterior.
• CN23 (PS Form 2976-A) - Detailed customs declaration for shipments $400 and above. Requires itemized list of contents, HS codes, and more detailed sender/recipient information. Enclosed in plastic pouch on package.
• CP72 (PS Form 2976-B) - Required for USPS commercial shipments. Combines customs declaration with dispatch note. Used by businesses with commercial accounts.

When shipping online via USPS Click-N-Ship or shipping platforms, the correct form is automatically selected based on declared value.

Commercial invoices are required for commercial carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) and business-to-business postal shipments. Include:

• Shipper information - Full name, address, phone, email, tax ID if applicable
• Recipient information - Full name, complete address including postal code, phone number
• Item description - Detailed description in English (e.g., "100% cotton men's t-shirt, blue, size large" not just "clothing")
• HS code - 6-10 digit Harmonized System code classifying the product. Determines duty rate. Find at hts.usitc.gov
• Country of origin - Where the item was manufactured, not where you're shipping from
• Declared value - Actual transaction value in USD. Don't undervalue—it's fraud and causes delays
• Number of pieces - Total units and total packages
• Incoterms - Usually DAP (Delivered at Place) or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Avoid these errors that lead to held packages, duties, or returns:

• Vague descriptions - "Gift" or "merchandise" triggers inspection. Be specific: "3 hardcover fiction books," "1 ceramic coffee mug."
• Undervalued items - Customs agents know typical values. A declared $20 "smartphone" will be questioned. Undervaluation is customs fraud.
• Wrong HS codes - Incorrect classification means wrong duty rate. Electronics vs toys vs tools have very different duty rates. Research proper codes.
• Missing phone numbers - Customs needs recipient contact for clearance issues. Always include working phone numbers.
• Incomplete addresses - Missing apartment numbers, postal codes, or province names delay delivery or cause returns.
• Prohibited items - Research destination restrictions. Food, plants, medications, used clothing—rules vary by country.