USPS international merchandise: prepare the counter handoff

Use this checklist before a staffed Post Office visit. Documents-only mail, APO/FPO/DPO, U.S. territories, regulated goods and commercial bulk shipments need separate guidance.

1. Check the destination and package

Start with the international service-disruption and Individual Country Listings links in USPS preparation, Step 1. Check whether the destination accepts packages, the contents restrictions, available service and country-specific size/weight limits. Resolve missing information before choosing postage.

Record contents before sealing; distinguish item and packed weights. Duties, export permissions and arrival time remain unresolved.

2. Build an accurate inventory

For each item, record what it is, its material and purpose, quantity, weight and value. Include separate item values and the shipment total; “gift” does not replace an item description or justify inventing a zero value. Record complete sender/recipient names and addresses and the requested contact information. Unknown details belong on the unresolved list, not in guessed fields. See USPS customs information and descriptions.

That page says USPS tools can assign HS codes from acceptable descriptions. This assistance does not settle the sender's responsibility below.

3. Resolve the form and responsibility

IMM 123.711 requires at least a six-digit HS code per item unless the country listing specifies otherwise; the sender remains responsible for accurate, complete information, including codes, whichever tool is used. Resolve uncertain classification or additional-document requirements before mailing; this guide supplies neither codes nor legal advice.

Under IMM 123.11 and 123.722, PS Form 2976-R is a worksheet presented with the package at the retail counter, not a standalone customs form. The associate generates the electronic form; the sender reviews and signs it. An old handwritten customs label is not a substitute.

4. Keep preparation and mailing separate

Customs Form Online can print a form without buying postage; Click-N-Ship combines postage and customs preparation. For this counter route, bring the package and applicable paperwork for mailing. A printed label does not establish USPS possession, customs clearance or recipient receipt. USPS preparation, Steps 6–7.

Hand back unresolved requirements privately; keep addresses and labels out of feedback.

Official text checked 2026-10-05T13:56:10Z; no HTML revision date established. Sixteen synthetic manual decisions were checked against this draft, not a parcel or customs system. No form, account, purchase or mailing action occurred. A distinct same-controller checker read all three sources and checked six additional manual decisions; this is not independent review. Recheck before mailing, after changed instructions or by 2026-11-05T13:56:10Z. Feedback should identify the public step or source discrepancy. Follow the parcel standard [current article].