Filing your personal taxes can be easier than it used to be. Unfortunately, what you could claim last year may not be the same this year. I have compiled a list of the common personal tax laws that have changed since last tax season on my website. I have also provided several tips that can help you get the biggest return possible without manipulating your tax forms. You can learn how to get the biggest return while following the IRS guidelines so you do not have to worry about tax audits or getting a penalty letter a few years after getting your check.
When you run a business that ships various items and merchandise to your customers, you may occasionally need to send these items internationally. While you can choose to ship domestic only, this really limits your customer base. However, before you jump into sending items to your international customers, make sure you have considered the following things first. It will make for a smooth shipping process without any difficulties.
Get Your Items Through Customs
One of the trickiest things with shipping items to another country is getting it through customs. Every country has their own customs office, where the importing and exporting of goods must meet their guidelines. There are certain items every country will not allow, though most of them restrict similar items like chemicals, foods, animals, and plant products. Some locations also have restrictions with sending precious metals and jewelry, and electronics, so you will need to learn what these requirements are.
To get your items through customs, fill out the customs form accurately and in detail, describing the item and its value. Make sure it is written clearly and is attached to the top of your package. Also remember not to list an item as a gift if a customer purchased it; this is illegal.
Use Appropriate Shipping Boxes
The types of shipping boxes you use to send your items internationally is another important thing to consider. Use high-quality shipping boxes, such as corrugated boxes. The box should be the right size for the item you are shipping. If you sell heavy items, such as glass or ceramics, make sure the item is well protected because boxes can take a beating when going through customs. If you have custom-made boxes for your business, that is helpful in customs because they recognize it as a valid shipment.
Know the International Shipping Costs
If you are used to the cost of shipping local items, you will be in for a rude awakening when shipping internationally. Since they are traveling by air or water, it is going to be more expensive. Unless you have an automatic shipping cost calculated on your website when customers pay for their goods, be sure you know the cost of shipping to certain countries so you can estimate the cost accordingly.
Insure the Shipments
Finally, consider insuring shipments that are sent to other countries. There is a higher rate of items lost when shipping internationally because they often pass through multiple shipping carriers. If an item doesn't arrive to your customer, you are probably going to be responsible for the loss. To protect your business assets, insure the shipments so that you have the extra cost covered if you need to ship another item.
Share2 January 2015
