When it comes to shipping packages internationally with the United States Postal Service (USPS), the label is more than just a sticker. It’s a passport for your parcel. From customs declarations to barcodes, missing even a single requirement could result in delays, penalties, or returned packages. This guide will walk you through the essential USPS shipping label requirements for international packages in 2025—ensuring your business shipments or personal parcels get where they need to go, hassle-free.
1. What Makes International Shipping Labels Different?
Domestic USPS labels typically include basic shipping details: sender and recipient addresses, tracking barcode, and service level. International labels, however, require additional information due to customs and cross-border regulations. This includes:
- Customs Forms (PS Form 2976, 2976-A, 2976-B, or 2976-R)
- Harmonized Tariff Codes
- Detailed Content Descriptions
- Package Value and Weight
- Sender’s Tax Identification Number (in some cases)
- Country of Origin
Failure to comply with any of these fields can result in delays, fines, or rejected shipments.
2. Choosing the Right USPS International Service
The service you select affects the label format and paperwork needed. USPS offers several options:
- First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS): For small, lightweight items (up to 4 lbs). Requires PS Form 2976.
- Priority Mail International: Medium-speed service; requires PS Form 2976-A.
- Priority Mail Express International: Fastest international service; requires PS Form 2976-B.
- Global Express Guaranteed (GXG): Partners with FedEx; includes its own shipping label system and customs requirements.
Always confirm the label format and customs form required for your chosen service.
3. Customs Forms: PS Form 2976, 2976-A, 2976-B, and 2976-R
Understanding the different forms is crucial:
- PS Form 2976 (CN22): Shorter form used for First-Class Package International Service or packages under $400. Suitable for lightweight shipments (less than 16 oz).
- PS Form 2976-A: Longer form with multiple copies, required for Priority Mail International and shipments over $400.
- PS Form 2976-B: Required for Priority Mail Express International shipments, including APO/FPO addresses.
- PS Form 2976-R: Used only at USPS retail counters. This is a worksheet that helps clerks input customs data into the USPS system. It is not affixed to the package.
Many of these forms are automatically generated when you use USPS Click-N-Ship or approved third-party software.
4. Label Placement and Packing Guidelines
Proper label placement ensures quick scanning and customs clearance:
- Place the label on the top of the package, not over seams or edges.
- Customs forms should be placed in USPS-approved plastic pouches (Form PS 2976-E or 2976-ES) and affixed outside the box.
- Ensure no other barcodes or conflicting information is on the box.
Tip: Use a thermal label printer for clean, smudge-proof printing. This minimizes the risk of scan errors.
5. Required Fields on an International Label
Every USPS international shipping label must include:
- Full sender and recipient addresses, including country and ZIP/postal code
- Description of contents: Be specific. “Clothes” is too vague; use “Men’s cotton t-shirts.”
- Quantity and value of each item
- Weight of each item
- Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code (optional but recommended)
- Country of origin
Additionally, some countries require:
- Recipient phone number
- Electronic Advance Data (EAD) transmission
- Shipper’s tax ID (e.g., EORI number in the EU)
6. Generating USPS International Labels Online
You can generate international labels using:
- USPS Click-N-Ship
- eBay or Amazon Seller Tools
- Shipping platforms like Pirate Ship, ShipStation, or Stamps.com
These platforms often auto-fill customs data, calculate postage, and provide tracking.
Make sure your label is:
- 4″ x 6″ in size (standard for thermal printers)
- High-contrast and legible
- Includes barcode and customs data
7. Addressing Common Mistakes
Avoid these errors that often result in international shipping delays:
- Generic product descriptions like “gifts” or “items”
- Incorrect or missing tariff codes
- Inaccurate value declarations
- No tax ID included when required by destination country
- Incorrect form type (e.g., using PS 2976 instead of 2976-A or 2976-B)
8. Country-Specific Restrictions and Requirements
Always check the USPS International Mail Manual (IMM) or online destination guide before shipping. Countries vary in:
- Prohibited/restricted items
- Tax regulations and import thresholds
- Phone number and ID requirements
For example:
- Brazil requires the recipient’s CPF number.
- Germany prefers inclusion of EORI numbers for businesses.
- China requires a valid phone number and full name in Chinese for certain shipments.
9. Ensuring Delivery and Tracking
Make sure your USPS label includes a tracking barcode. Not all international services offer full tracking:
- FCPIS has limited tracking.
- Priority Mail International includes tracking for most countries.taba squishy
- Priority Mail Express International offers full tracking and delivery confirmation.
Consider pairing your label with a tracking email for your customer, especially for eCommerce.
10. Label Quality Matters: Why Use a Reliable Label Brand?
Poor-quality labels may fade, peel, or smudge—leading to failed deliveries. That’s where brands like Betckey make a difference. Betckey’s thermal labels:
- Are compatible with major thermal printers (like Zebra, Rollo, Dymo, Brother)
- Feature strong adhesive and smudge-proof surfaces
- Are available in bulk, roll, or fanfold options
- Provide crisp barcodes that scan every time
Why Choose Betckey?
For businesses shipping internationally, label reliability is non-negotiable. Betckey offers:
- Budget-friendly pricing without compromising quality
- Bulk purchase discounts for high-volume shippers
- USA-based shipping warehouses for faster delivery
Whether you’re sending five packages a month or five hundred, Betckey ensures your USPS international shipping labels won’t be the weak link in your fulfillment chain.
FAQs About USPS International Shipping Label Requirements
Q1: Can I handwrite customs forms for international USPS packages? Yes, but it’s highly discouraged. Electronically generated labels are more accurate and prevent delays caused by illegible handwriting or data entry errors.
Q2: Do all USPS international shipments require customs forms? Yes. Any package leaving the U.S. must include the appropriate customs form, even gifts or low-value items.
Q3: What if my package doesn’t have enough room for the label and customs form? Use a larger box or ship in a flat-rate envelope that accommodates external pouches. Never place forms inside the package or cover up barcodes.
Need reliable labels for international USPS shipments? Choose Betckey—trusted by thousands of eCommerce businesses for precise, professional, and long-lasting thermal shipping labels.