Learn More about International Shipping with JustShip!

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Blog | JustShip International Shipping Singapore

If you’re an Etsy seller in Singapore, expanding to international markets is one of the fastest ways to grow your business. Nearly 

, with most buyers located in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and Canada. These regions actively seek out unique handmade products like yours.

But while international sales offer huge potential, 

shipping issues remain one of the top reasons for negative reviews on Etsy

, making it crucial to get your process right from the start.

Still, shipping overseas can feel daunting. You might be wondering:

Which courier should I use for different products?

How do I handle customs paperwork smoothly?

Will my buyers have to pay unexpected fees?

These concerns are common. The good news is, international shipping isn’t as complicated as it seems. With the right steps, you can ship confidently to customers worldwide and build a strong global Etsy business.

This guide shares practical tips to simplify your international shipping, whether you’re new to Etsy or looking to streamline your current process. You’ll also learn how JustShip helps Singapore Etsy sellers save time and reduce shipping pain points.

Etsy International Shipping Tips for Sellers

1. Verify Product Eligibility and Import Restrictions

Before offering international shipping, always check if your products are allowed in your buyer’s country. Each destination has unique import restrictions and may require specific documentation.

Australia enforces strict biosecurity rules on wooden products. Items with bark, untreated wood, or visible pest risks can be rejected or destroyed on arrival.

Exporting handmade goods may require permits, certificates of origin, or compliance with safety standards.

 to quickly check restrictions per country.

Refer to government websites or embassies for up-to-date regulations.

When in doubt, consult an export specialist.

2. Choose the Right Shipping Option for Each Product Type

Shipping costs and delivery times directly affect buyer satisfaction and sales. According to 

, 38% of online shoppers abandon their cart if delivery takes too long, and 69% cancel if shipping fees feel excessive.

For items like premium jewellery, glassware, or collectibles, choose 

Optional insurance for financial protection

Buyers who spend more expect fast, secure delivery. Express shipping builds trust and increases the likelihood of repeat purchases.

Items like apparel, home décor, and art prints work best with 

This option balances speed and affordability, and is suitable for most day-to-day Etsy orders.

Items like stickers or small accessories can use 

Postal shipping works best when buyers prioritise affordability over speed. Always set clear expectations in your listing to avoid dissatisfaction.

💡 Why Offering Multiple Options Matters

Offering a variety of shipping options helps cater to different buyer needs and reduces cart abandonment. For example:

Offer both priority and express for regular items

For low-value items, set postal as the default, with an upgrade to priority available

When shipping internationally, accurate customs declarations are essential to ensure your packages clear customs smoothly and reach your customers without delays.

Inaccurate or incomplete declarations can lead to several issues:

 Fines, additional duties, or storage fees

Non-compliant shipments may be seized or returned

To prepare accurate customs declarations:

: Clearly describe each item, including its material, purpose, and function. For example, instead of "accessory," specify "handmade leather keychain."

: State the actual transaction value of the goods. Under-declaring can lead to penalties, while over-declaring may increase duties unnecessarily.

code classifies goods for customs purposes. Using the correct code ensures proper duty assessment and compliance.

Customs compliance helps ensure your shipment clears smoothly, builds trust with buyers, and protects your Etsy store’s reputation.

4. Understand Duties and Taxes for Each Destination

When selling internationally, it’s important to understand that buyers may need to pay 

 before receiving their orders. These charges vary by country and depend on the product value, category, and local import rules.

If your buyer isn’t aware of these costs, they may feel frustrated or refuse the parcel, resulting in returns, lost sales, or negative reviews.

For shipments to the European Union (EU) under €150, Etsy collects VAT and provides an 

number. Ensure this number is included in your customs declaration to prevent double taxation.

 that buyers are responsible for any customs duties or taxes charged by their country. Alternatively,

, where you pay duties and taxes upfront for a hassle-free delivery experience.


Common Etsy Shipping Challenges and How JustShip Solves Them

International shipping often feels overwhelming for Etsy sellers in Singapore. Here’s a consolidated breakdown of the most common pain points and how JustShip directly addresses each one to help you operate smoothly and grow with confidence:

. Postal shipping to USA is temporary paused.


1. Sign up and select “Selling e-commerce” during onboarding.

2. Shipping to the EU? Insert your Etsy IOSS number directly in your dashboard to ensure smooth customs clearance.

Import the updated file to your dashboard – no manual entry needed

By combining affordable shipping rates, accurate customs declarations, and flexible courier options, you can confidently serve customers worldwide and grow your Etsy business sustainably with JustShip.

Selling on Etsy from Singapore? Learn how to ship overseas with ease, avoid costly mistakes, and grow faster using JustShip’s expert tips.

International Shipping Tips for Etsy Sellers

Sending a gift to a loved one overseas? Whether it’s for a special occasion or a spontaneous surprise, international gift shipping comes with a few important things to consider.

Here’s what you need to know to make the process smooth, thoughtful, and memorable.

Most international deliveries take about 

, but it’s always best to plan ahead. Customs clearance can sometimes cause delays, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

 Ship early to make sure your gift arrives right on time — surprises are better when they aren’t late.

2. Keeping It a Surprise — What to Consider

 instead of the recipient’s to keep the gift a true surprise. But here are a few things to weigh:

: Customs may need to reach the recipient and won’t be able to if you’re listed instead.

: If contact attempts fail, the parcel might be returned.

you’ll be responsible for the full return charges

It’s a balance between surprise and certainty, so consider what works best for you.

Customs clearance is one of the biggest variables in international shipping, but you can make it easier by:

not shipping any restricted or prohibited items

 to pay all customs charges upfront — so the recipient doesn’t get a surprise bill

Worried about spoiling the surprise? We’ve got you covered.

Shipping labels won’t reveal what’s inside the box.

Commercial invoices are submitted electronically, so there’s no visible paperwork attached to the parcel.

Your recipient gets a clean, mystery-filled package just as you intended.

Understanding the finer details of shipping a gift lets you send it with more confidence and care. It’s not just about what’s inside the box — it’s about the entire experience, from packing to delivery.

Make your surprise extra special. Let JustShip help you share joy, wherever it needs to go.

Sending a gift abroad? Learn how to keep it a surprise, avoid customs issues, and ship with confidence using these expert-backed tips from JustShip.

International Gift Shipping Tips to Keep It Smooth and Surprise Proof

To keep our shipping rates low while maintaining great service, we’re making a small change to our pickup policy:

We know free pickup has been a big convenience, and we didn’t make this change lightly. As we expand services—like 

0.1kg weight tier for Standard & Postal Shipping

—this small adjustment helps us keep shipping costs low without adding hidden fees.

If you’re shipping just one or two parcels and want to skip the fee, you’re always welcome to drop them off at our warehouse for free.

Thanks for your support. This lets us continue making international shipping affordable and hassle-free for you!

At JustShip, we are committed to providing the most seamless and cost-effective international shipping experience for our customers. As we continue expanding our services, we are introducing a small adjustment to our pickup policy to ensure we can sustain our low shipping rates while maintaining high service standards.

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Update to Our Pickup Policy

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International Gift Shipping Tips to Keep It Smooth and Surprise Proof