Sending gifts or documents home is common. Packages abroad need a customs form, and both countries have rules about what is allowed.
Check that USPS is accepting packages to your country. The usps.com international pages list service changes.
Check what the destination country does not allow. USPS has a "Country Conditions for Mailing" page for each country.
Check US restrictions. Batteries, liquids, aerosols, flammable items, some foods and medicines, and anything dangerous are restricted or not allowed.
USPS international options include:
Priority Mail Express International: fastest USPS option, tracked.
Priority Mail International: a few business days to a couple of weeks, with flat-rate boxes for some sizes.
First-Class Package International Service: cheaper for small, light packages.
First-Class Mail International: letters and flat documents.
Private couriers (UPS, FedEx, DHL) are often faster and cost more. Compare total prices including fees.
Every package with merchandise (anything that is not documents) needs a customs form. USPS accepts only computer-generated forms.
Online: buy postage on usps.com with Click-N-Ship, and the form prints with the label. Or use the free Customs Form Online tool and bring the printout.
At the post office: fill in a paper worksheet (PS Form 2976-R) and the clerk creates the official form.
List each item, its quantity, weight and value in US dollars. Mark it as a gift, documents, merchandise or other, honestly.
Some countries ask for the receiver's phone number or email. Add them.
If you sell things and ship them abroad, each item now needs a 6-digit HS code (a product category number) on the customs form.
Use a strong box, fill empty space and seal it well. Cover old labels.
Write the address in English, in capital letters, with the country on the last line.
The receiver's country may charge import duty or tax, and the receiver usually pays before getting the package. The amount depends on that country's rules, the item and its value. Gifts are not always free of duty.
Writing "gift" with a low value on new merchandise. Wrong customs forms can lead to delays, fines or a destroyed package.
Packing perfume, lithium batteries or liquids without checking the rules.
Sending valuable items without tracking or insurance.
Sending passports or original certificates by the cheapest service. Use a tracked service.