International sales can seem a little scary at first.  But they are really no more challenging than making a sale in the United States, and they can open up a new world of selling possibilities for you.

I've been selling on ebay for roughly seven years now, and my international sales have grown from 1 or 2 per month, to nearly 25% of my sales.  And, the good thing is - Of the 2500 items I've shipped internationally, only two have not made it to their recipient. That's a record I would love to have for my domestic sales.

If you really want to take on the international market you need to tweak your auctions a little, and decide in the sell your item form which areas you want to ship to.  I've heard horror stories about shipping to Russia, Poland, and Mexico - but, I've never once had a problem with any shipments to those locations.  Anyway, ebay gives you the option to select which areas, or countries you are willing to ship to.  If you're the cautious type, maybe pick Canada and the UK.  If you're bolder, and have a "go for it attitude" - select worldwide and see how it opens up your sales possibilities.

The next step is deciding on your shipping method.  I do all of my shipping through the post office, because they're close by, easy to deal with, and relatively inexpensive.  UPS, FED EX, and DHL also offer many great shipping options depending on what you are selling.

My suggestion would be to stop in or call the carriers you are thinking of, and find out exactly what is involved in shipping your items.

With the post office I can tell you - The customs form is the main difference.  You need to declare the value of every item you are sending, because many countries charge a duty, or tax on the item.  One suggestion I would make is to have all of your customs forms filled out and ready to go before you head for the post office.  This makes it quicker for everyone, postal staff and other customers.

You will also be faced with a number of shipping options - but it really comes down to ground (sort of like taking the slow boat to China - 4 to 10 week), and air (7 to 14 days).  If you can, always pick the faster method.  No one likes waiting, and if you take the slow boat option, you're going to be getting a lot of emails and phone calls from your international customers wondering where their item is. 

I would also suggest putting plenty of information in your auction listings detailing your international shipping methods, expected delivery times, and preferred payment methods.  The more information you give up front, the less problems you are going to have after the sale.  It's all about managing expectations - Most ebay buyers want to pay when they are ready, and receive their item yesterday.  Your job is to politely explain all the details, while not discouraging purchases, or sounding too harsh, with all sorts of obnoxious rules.

One final thing you are going to hear all of the time is:  Can you say it is a gift, or not declare the full value?  Don't do it!!!  If you are caught, it is a felony.

Give international shipping a chance, and watch your sales skyrocket.

Did you find this guide helpful? If so please rate it below.  I spend a lot of time researching and writing these guides, and need you help to keep them up to date, and accurate.  If you have any suggestions, or concerns - please contact me, and if the info is accurate I will include it in the next update of this guide.