International gifting: plan the dates, clear customs and choose gifts that travel well

Gifts sent across borders take longer, cost more and face rules that do not apply at home. Work out your ship-by date, learn what customs needs from you and pick gifts that arrive in good shape and good taste.

International gift ship-by planner

Enter the date the gift must arrive and the transit time your carrier quotes for the destination. The planner works backward to the day to ship and the day to order. Nothing leaves your browser.

Frequently asked questions

How early should I ship an international gift?

Work backward from the arrival date using your carrier's quoted transit time plus extra days for customs. The ship-by planner does the math.

Will the recipient have to pay duties?

Possibly. It depends on the destination, the item and its value. Some services let the sender pay duties in advance.

What should I write on the customs form?

A plain description and honest value for each item, and mark it as a gift where the form allows.

What gifts are easiest to send abroad?

Light, durable, low-value items such as textiles, books and stationery, or digital and locally delivered gifts.

Are business gifts different?

Yes. Many employers limit what staff may accept, and anti-bribery laws apply in many countries. Keep them modest and open.

Guides

Sending a gift abroad

Restrictions, customs forms, services and tracking.

Gift etiquette

Presentation, timing, symbols and business gift rules.

Gifts that travel well

Light, durable, easy to declare, or delivered digitally.

About this site

We are a marketing agency, not a gift shop or carrier. To ask about our work, get in touch or call (510) 857-7838.