The difference between international postal parcel and surface mail and how to place an order

In the field of cross-border e-commerce, international postal parcel is a common logistics method. However, for many sellers and buyers, there are still some questions about whether international postal parcels are equivalent to surface mail. This article will deeply explore the characteristics and differences of international postal parcels, and also introduce how to place an order for international postal parcels.

1. Definition and characteristics of international postal parcel

International postal parcels refer to small commodity parcels sent through international postal channels. It has the following characteristics:

• Weight limit: International postal parcels usually have weight limits. The specific limits are determined by the regulations of different countries and regions, and are generally less than 2 kilograms.
• Size restrictions: International postal parcels also have size restrictions, including restrictions on length, width and thickness. Specific restrictions will also vary depending on the country and region.
• Economical: Compared with other logistics methods such as international express delivery, international postal parcels have lower shipping costs and are suitable for small-value commodities or price-sensitive commodities.
• Transportation time: Due to the use of postal channels, the transportation time of international postal parcels is relatively long, usually ranging from weeks to months. The specific time limit depends on the conditions of the destination country and region.

2. The difference between international postal parcel and surface mail

There are some differences between international postal parcels and surface mail. These differences include:

• Transportation method: International postal parcels are transported through postal channels, but not all postal parcels are delivered by surface mail. Surface mail is a specific postal service that is generally more affordable than regular postal parcel services, but has longer transit times.
• Price and timeliness: The freight for surface mail is relatively low, which is suitable for cross-border transportation of small-value commodities, but the transportation time is long; while the freight for international postal parcels is relatively low, but it depends on the destination. Depending on the country and region, the shipping time will also vary.
• Tracking and guarantee: Surface mail is relatively weak in terms of full tracking and guarantee, and generally only provides basic tracking services; international postal parcels usually provide package tracking services, and sellers and buyers can track them through number to check the shipping status of your package.

3. How to place an order for international postal small parcel delivery

1. Select a postal service provider

First of all, you need to choose a reliable postal service provider that can provide international postal small package first-class mailing services. Common choices include China Post, USPS, Royal Mail, etc. When choosing, you can consider factors such as price, service range, delivery speed, and customer reviews.

2. Prepare to send information

Before placing an order, you need to prepare the following shipping information:

• Recipient’s name, address and contact information.
• Sender’s name, address and contact information.
• Size, weight and quantity of package.
• Contents and value of package.

3. Fill in the order

Enter the official website or mobile application of the selected postal service provider and find the ordering page or function for international postal small parcel and surface mail. Follow the instructions on the page and fill in the required information step by step. Make sure to provide accurate and complete shipping information to avoid delays or returned packages.

4. Select service type

During the order process, you need to select the service type as international postal small parcel and surface mail. This service is generally more cost-effective and suitable for packages that are lighter in weight and don’t have urgent time requirements. Note that different postal service providers may have different definitions and service details for surface mail.

5. Payment of fees

The corresponding postage is calculated based on the selected postal service provider and the size and weight of the package. During the order process, you need to select a payment method and follow the instructions on the page to pay. Common payment methods include credit card, Alipay, etc.

6. Generate waybill

After completing the order information and payment, the system will generate a waybill. Please carefully check the shipping information on the waybill to ensure it is accurate. You can choose to print a shipping label and affix it to your package, or do other things as required by your postal service provider.

7. Deliver package

Pack the package properly and attach the generated waybill. Depending on the postal service provider you choose, you can have your package delivered to a designated post office or choose a door-to-door pickup service. On the postal service provider’s website or mobile app, you can find the address of your nearest post office or schedule a pick-up service.

8. Keep the waybill and track the package

After delivering the package, be sure to keep a copy of the waybill and any relevant vouchers for future inquiries or tracking of the package. Postal service providers usually provide package tracking services. You can check the shipping status and estimated arrival time of your package through the tracking number on the waybill or by entering relevant information on the official website.

9. Pay attention to customs regulations

According to the customs regulations of the destination country, ensure that the contents of the package comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Avoid sending prohibited or restricted items to avoid customs issues. Before placing an order, you can check with your postal service provider or the relevant official guidance to learn about customs regulations and restrictions in your destination country.

Conclusion

International postal parcel is not the same as surface mail. It is a small commodity package sent through international postal channels. International postal parcels are relatively economical and suitable for cross-border transportation of small-value commodities, but the transportation time is longer. When choosing a logistics method, sellers should weigh and choose based on the weight, size, value of the goods and the buyer’s requirements for transportation time. For important or high-value items, other faster and traceable logistics methods may need to be considered. When using international postal parcels, sellers can communicate with the post office or logistics service provider to understand the specific service content and timeliness to ensure smooth cross-border logistics and improve customer satisfaction.