Shipping Policy
1. Introduction
This policy outlines the transportation guidelines for cross-border e-commerce shipments to and from the United States. It ensures compliance with U.S. regulations, promotes efficiency, and facilitates smooth international trade operations.
2. Regulatory Compliance
All shipments must comply with U.S. federal, state, and local regulations, including but not limited to:
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations on product safety and labeling.
Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines for transportation safety.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules for food, drugs, and medical devices.
3. Customs Declaration and Documentation
To ensure smooth customs clearance, all shipments must include:
A detailed commercial invoice with product descriptions and values.
Harmonized System (HS) codes for tariff classification.
Required import/export licenses.
A properly completed air waybill or bill of lading.
4. Shipping Restrictions
Certain items are restricted or prohibited for cross-border transport, including:
Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) without proper documentation.
Counterfeit goods or items violating intellectual property laws.
Perishable goods that do not meet FDA or USDA import standards.
Weapons, ammunition, and explosives without appropriate permits.
5. Duties, Taxes, and Fees
Import duties, taxes, and other fees may be imposed based on the destination country’s regulations. U.S. sellers should clearly communicate these potential costs to international buyers and, if applicable, collect them in advance.
6. Carrier and Logistics Partner Requirements
E-commerce businesses must work with reputable logistics providers that:
Offer real-time tracking and delivery confirmation.
Ensure compliance with all U.S. and international shipping laws.
Provide adequate insurance options for high-value goods.
7. Packaging and Labeling Standards
All shipments must be securely packaged to withstand international transit conditions. Labels must:
Clearly display the recipient’s full name, address, and contact information.
Include appropriate handling instructions, such as “Fragile” or “Keep Dry.”
Contain any legally required warning labels for regulated goods.
8. Returns and Refunds Policy
Sellers must establish clear return and refund procedures, including:
Specifying which items are eligible for returns and under what conditions.
Providing return shipping labels for applicable cases.
Complying with consumer protection laws related to refunds and exchanges.
9. Data Protection and Consumer Privacy
All customer information collected for shipping purposes must be handled securely, in compliance with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for EU-based buyers.
10. Dispute Resolution and Liability
In the event of shipping disputes, parties should:
Refer to the terms agreed upon between the seller and buyer.
Engage the carrier’s dispute resolution process for lost or damaged shipments.
Seek arbitration or legal resolution if necessary under applicable U.S. laws.
11. Conclusion
This policy serves as a guideline for businesses engaged in cross-border e-commerce with the U.S. Compliance with these standards will help ensure seamless international shipping, regulatory adherence, and customer satisfaction.