So, you need to send a parcel overseas. Whether it’s a birthday gift for a friend in London, a sold item on an e-commerce platform, or documents for a client in Sydney, the idea of international shipping can feel a bit daunting.

Customs forms, prohibited items, shipping costs… where do you even begin?

Don't worry! Shipping from Singapore to the rest of the world is straightforward when you know the basics. This guide will walk you through every step, turning you from a nervous beginner into a confident international shipper.

Step 1: Get Your Parcel Ready

Before you even think about shipping labels, your parcel needs to be packed for its long journey.

• The Box: Use a new, sturdy cardboard box. An old, worn-out shoebox likely won’t survive the trip.

• Cushioning is Key: Protect your items with bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper. Fragile items should be wrapped individually and should not touch the sides of the box.

• Seal it Tight: Use strong plastic packing tape to seal all seams, especially the top and bottom. Don’t use masking tape or cello tape.

Step 2: The Golden Rule of International Shipping - Customs Forms

This is the most important step that many first-timers miss. Every single international parcel requires a customs declaration.

• What is it? This is a form that tells the destination country what’s inside your parcel and its value. It’s a legal requirement.

• What do I need to declare? You’ll need to list each item, its quantity, and its value accurately. Be honest and specific—don’t just write "gift." Write "1x Men's Cotton T-Shirt" or "1x Used Hardcover Book."

• How do I fill it out? When you create a shipping label with SimplyParcel, we guide you through filling out the customs form digitally. It’s built right into the process, so you can’t forget it!

Step 3: What Can and Can't Be Shipped?

You can’t ship everything. Countries have strict rules to protect their citizens, agriculture, and security.

Commonly Prohibited or Restricted Items:

• Dangerous Goods: Batteries, aerosols, lighters, perfumes, and flammable liquids.

• Illegal Items: Obvious, but includes drugs, counterfeit goods, and weapons.

• Perishables: Fresh food, fruits, vegetables, and meats.

• Animal Products: Ivory, untanned hides, and certain other by-products.

Always check our comprehensive prohibited items guide before you pack. Sending a banned item can lead to your parcel being seized, destroyed, or returned to you.

Step 4: Understanding Shipping Costs & Delivery Times

The cost and speed of shipping depend on a few key factors:

1. Destination: Shipping to a neighbouring country like Malaysia is cheaper and faster than shipping to the USA or Europe.

2. Parcel Weight & Size: Heavier and larger parcels cost more to ship. Carriers use "volumetric weight" to price bulky, light items, so a big box of pillows might cost more than a small, dense box of books.

3. Service Level:

   • Express (3-5 days): Services like FedEx International Priority are faster but cost more. Perfect for urgent documents or time-sensitive gifts.

   • Economy (7-14+ days): More affordable but slower. Great for non-urgent items like sold goods or seasonal gifts.

Pro Tip: Use our Shipping Calculator to instantly compare prices and delivery times from different carriers. It’s the easiest way to find the best option for your budget and timeline.

Step 5: How to Ship with SimplyParcel (It's Easy!)

We’ve designed the process to be as simple as possible.

1. Get Your Instant Quote: Enter your destination, parcel weight, and dimensions on our website.

2. Create Your Label & Customs Form: Fill in the details about your parcel's contents. Our system will generate your shipping label and customs documentation for you.

3. Choose How to Send:

   • Doorstep Pickup: Schedule a time for a courier to collect the parcel from your home or office.

   • Drop-Off: Take your packed and labelled parcel to one of our convenient partner locations.

4. Track Your Parcel: Once it's on its way, you’ll receive a tracking number. Watch your parcel’s journey across the globe in real-time!

Beginner's Checklist for Your First International Shipment:

• My items are allowed to be shipped to the destination country.

• My parcel is packed securely in a strong box.

• I know the weight and dimensions of my packed box.

• I have a detailed list of the contents and their accurate values for the customs form.

• I have compared service levels and prices using the SimplyParcel calculator.

You're Ready to Ship!

International shipping doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can send parcels from Singapore to over 200 countries worldwide with confidence.

Ready to get started? We’re here to handle the logistics, so you can focus on what matters—connecting with the world.

Click here to get an instant quote and ship your first international parcel today!

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