Why Customs Forms Are Required
When you send a package outside the United States, customs authorities in both the U.S. and the destination country need to know what's inside. Customs forms provide that information — what the package contains, its value, and whether it's a gift or a sale. Incorrect or incomplete forms are one of the top reasons international packages are held, delayed, or returned.
Which Customs Form Do You Need?
USPS now uses an integrated online customs declaration system. When you purchase international postage through Click-N-Ship (usps.com), customs information is collected digitally and transmitted electronically — no separate paper form is needed in most cases.
However, if you're completing forms manually or at a Post Office, here are the relevant forms:
| Form | Used For | Max Value/Weight |
|---|---|---|
| PS Form 2976 (CN22) | Small packets, First-Class Mail International | Up to $400, under 4.4 lbs |
| PS Form 2976-A (CP72) | Priority Mail International, USPS Retail Ground | Over $400 or over 4.4 lbs |
| PS Form 2976-B | Priority Mail Express International | All values |
Step-by-Step: Completing the Customs Form
Step 1: Enter Sender Information
Fill in your full name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code accurately. This is used if the package needs to be returned.
Step 2: Enter Recipient Information
Include the recipient's full name, complete street address, city, postal code, and country. Avoid abbreviations that may confuse foreign postal systems.
Step 3: Describe the Contents
This is the most critical part. For each item in the package:
- Description: Be specific. "Clothing" is acceptable; "stuff" is not. Use "cotton T-shirt," "ceramic mug," or "hardcover novel."
- Quantity: How many of each item?
- Weight: The weight of each item or the total.
- Value: The fair market value in USD. Do not undervalue items — this is illegal and can result in seizure.
- Country of origin: Where the item was manufactured.
- HS Tariff Number: Optional for most personal shipments, but required for some commercial shipments. These are standardized codes that classify goods for customs purposes.
Step 4: Select the Category
Check the appropriate box:
- Gift: Items sent as a present, not a sale
- Documents: Non-commercial paperwork only
- Commercial Sample: Goods sent for evaluation, no sale
- Merchandise: Goods purchased or sold
- Return/Repair: Items being sent back for repair
- Other: Anything not fitting the above
Step 5: Declare Total Value and Sign
Add up the total value of all contents. Sign and date the form — your signature is a legal declaration that the information is accurate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undervaluing items: Customs authorities can seize packages with suspicious undervaluation.
- Vague descriptions: "Miscellaneous items" will almost certainly trigger an inspection.
- Missing recipient phone number: Many countries require this for customs clearance — include it when possible.
- Shipping prohibited items: Each country has its own restricted/prohibited list. Check the USPS International Mail Manual (IMM) for destination-specific rules.
Duties and Taxes
The recipient is typically responsible for paying any import duties or taxes assessed by their country's customs authority. These are based on the declared value and type of goods. USPS does not collect or refund duties — that's handled entirely by the destination country.
Tracking International Packages
Not all USPS international services include end-to-end tracking. Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International include tracking, but once a package enters the destination country's postal network, updates may become infrequent or stop entirely until delivery.
Taking the time to complete your customs form correctly greatly reduces the risk of delays, inspections, and problems at the border. When in doubt, be specific, be accurate, and be honest.