Shipping Overseas FAQ
If you have any further questions, please contact an IBC Representative.
Our knowledgeable team is on hand to answer your questions 24/7.
How do I ship a package?
First, you need to be a registered customer. If you are not already a registered customer, you can apply for an account with IBC by contacting one of our customer service representatives. You will need to complete our credit application, which can be found in the forms area of our website.
If you are already a customer, you may use IBC's web-based air waybill (domestic or international) page to print a waybill, and then you can call us for a pickup at +1 (888) 744-7422
What are the size and weight limitations for shipping with IBC?
Individual packages to a maximum weight of 150 pounds are accepted for all IBC services — there is no limit to the gross shipment weight.
Individual packages above 150 pounds are accepted as IBC Express Freight. Please contact us at +1 (888) 744-7422 for rate information.
Express shipments for carriage by air are subject to a 70 pound per piece (30 kilogram) weight limit as stipulated by The International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Packages weighing more than 70 pounds will require a special label to indicate "overweight" and may be subject to a special handling surcharge.
Dimensional Weight / Volumetric Weight: Oversize packages, or packages that have a disproportionate size-to-weight ratio, may require special pricing or be subject to Dimensional Weight Calculations.
Shipments are charged as per the rate for the greater of dimensional weight or actual weight.
How do I know if my shipment is dutiable?
So my shipment is dutiable. How does that affect my shipment?
It can affect your shipment in two ways:
Customs: All dutiable shipments must go through a customs clearance procedure, which can affect the transit time of your shipment. IBC has developed working relationships with customs officials worldwide to streamline the clearance process. Licensed customs brokers ensure that the great majority of shipments are cleared through customs quickly and efficiently. However, some items, particularly unusual or high-value items, are detained by customs longer. Transit time will depend on how long local procedures take.
Documentation: All dutiable shipments require at least an air waybill and a commercial invoice. Additional forms you may need will depend on shipment content, value and/or destination.
Are international transit time commitments always met?
Many factors can affect international transit times:
Holidays: Every country celebrates different holidays. If your shipment arrives on a holiday, IBC couriers may not be able to deliver it until your recipient is back to work.
Weekends: It may seem obvious, but it is worth pointing out. Transit times listed on this site are listed in business days, so you will need to account for weekend days, when applicable. Note that weekends may differ by country.
Please call us at +1 (888) 744-7422 for a delivery commitment that reflects the details of your specific shipment and service selected.
Who pays duty on my goods?
It is most common to have the recipient in the destination country pay duty charges. However, as the shipper, you may choose to pay them, which means you are requesting Free Domicile service.
How do I prepare my IBC packages for shipment?
What is your fastest service?
IBC Special Services can address urgent items on a case-by-case basis. You can find out specific information by contacting your nearest IBC office at +1 (888) 744-7422. Usually, the fastest service involves putting someone on the next flight to the destination to hand-carry the shipment to your consignee, but we offer many other faster-than-usual products that may meet your requirements without the costs of a hand-carry or a charter flight
Does IBC offer weekend delivery?
Yes. Saturday/Sunday delivery is available for an additional fee through IBC Specials Services. Call +1 (888) 744-7422 for specific information.