Table of contents
    the United States

    Website customs the United States
    Government website
    Website chamber of commerce
    Country Alpha-2 code: US
    Country Alpha-3 code:
    USA
    Country numeric code:
    840
    GDP:
    USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
    Currency:
    US Dollar
    Inhabitants:
    335893238
    Language:
    English

    Freight forwarders in the United States
    Seaports in the United States
    Charleston
    Chicago
    Anacortes
    Ashtabula
    Baltimore
    Baton Rouge
    Beaumont
    Boston
    Airports in the United States
    Hurlburt Field
    Mc Minnville Municipal Airport
    San Clemente Island Naval Auxiliary Landing Field
    Lake Hood Airport
    Cartersville Airport
    Sugar Loaf Shores Airport
    Brooks Field
    Old Rhinebeck Airport

    Shipping between the United States and Italy

    Table of contents

      Navigating the complexities of shipping between the United States and Italy requires understanding various aspects from pre-import considerations to customs clearance and costs. This guide provides essential information, strategies for saving money, and details on shipping methods, aimed at helping you streamline your logistics and supply chain operations.

      Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.

      Pre-import considerations

      First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.

      If you are importing from the United States to Italy , check the Customs Tariff from Italy. If you are importing from Italy to the United States, check the Customs Tariff from the United States.

      Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.

      Customs Clearance Process:

      Customs clearance is a critical step in shipping between the United States and Italy. For shipments entering the U.S., the process involves filing an entry with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which includes providing documentation such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list. Duties and taxes must be calculated and paid before goods are released.

      For shipments to Italy, customs clearance requires submitting a Single Administrative Document (SAD) to Italian Customs. Essential documents include the commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and transportation documents. Import duties and VAT (Value Added Tax) are assessed based on the type and value of the goods.

      Both countries employ electronic systems for processing customs declarations—Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) in the U.S. and AIDA (Automated Import Data Entry System) in Italy—aiming to expedite clearance and reduce paperwork. Engaging a licensed customs broker can further simplify the process and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

      Costs to consider

      Costs to Consider When Shipping Between the U.S. and Italy

      When shipping between the United States and Italy, several cost factors must be considered:

      1. Freight Charges: These include the base cost for transporting goods via air, sea, or land. Rates vary based on the shipping method, distance, and volume or weight of the shipment.
      2. Customs Duties and Taxes: Import duties in both countries depend on the type and value of the goods. The U.S. uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), while Italy follows the European Union’s Combined Nomenclature (CN).
      3. Value Added Tax (VAT): In Italy, a standard VAT rate of 22% is applied to most imported goods. The U.S. does not have a federal VAT, but state sales taxes may apply.
      4. Insurance: Insuring shipments against loss or damage is crucial. Costs depend on the value of the goods and the level of coverage.
      5. Handling and Documentation Fees: Charges for processing paperwork, terminal handling, and other administrative tasks can add up.
      6. Storage Fees: If goods are held in customs or warehouses, storage fees may accrue.
      7. Brokerage Fees: Hiring customs brokers to manage the clearance process incurs additional costs but can ensure compliance and efficiency.

      For detailed tariff information, refer to the U.S. International Trade Commission and the European Commission Taxation and Customs Union.

      Saving on Shipping Costs

      Strategies for Saving on Shipping Costs

      To minimize shipping costs between the U.S. and Italy, consider the following strategies:

      1. Compare Quotes: Utilize platforms like Zendeq to obtain and compare quotes from multiple reliable shipping companies, ensuring you get the best rates.
      2. Optimize Packaging: Reduce the size and weight of your shipments to lower freight charges.
      3. Choose the Right Shipping Method: For less urgent shipments, opt for sea freight over air freight to save significantly on costs.
      4. Consolidate Shipments: Combine multiple small shipments into a single larger one to benefit from bulk shipping rates.
      5. Negotiate Rates: Establish long-term relationships with carriers to negotiate better rates and terms.
      6. Plan Ahead: Avoid peak shipping times when rates are higher and plan shipments in advance to secure better pricing.

      For more tips, visit resources like the Federal Maritime Commission and the International Air Transport Association.

      Sending Your Package: USA to Italy and Vice Versa

      Sending packages between the United States and Italy, whether for business or personal purposes, requires selecting a reliable carrier and understanding the shipping process.

      For Businesses:

      1. Carriers: Major carriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer reliable services for shipping between the U.S. and Italy. These carriers provide a range of options from express to standard shipping, depending on urgency and budget.
      2. Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are prepared, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and any required customs declarations.
      3. Customs Compliance: Businesses should be aware of customs regulations and duties in both countries. Using customs brokers can facilitate smooth clearance.

      For Individuals:

      1. Carriers: Individuals can use USPS for cost-effective options or DHL, FedEx, and UPS for faster delivery and tracking capabilities.
      2. Packaging: Properly packaging items to withstand international transit is crucial. Carriers typically offer guidelines and materials for secure packaging.
      3. Customs Declarations: Complete a customs declaration form, detailing the contents and value of the package to avoid delays.

      Key Carriers:

      • DHL: Known for its extensive international network and express delivery services.
      • FedEx: Offers reliable international shipping with various service levels.
      • UPS: Provides robust international shipping solutions and tracking.
      • USPS: A cost-effective option for less urgent shipments.

      Additional Tips:

      • Tracking: Use the carrier’s tracking services to monitor the shipment's progress.
      • Insurance: Consider purchasing insurance for valuable or fragile items.
      • Size and Weight Restrictions: Be aware of each carrier's size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees.

      For more information, visit the carriers' official websites: DHL, FedEx, UPS, USPS.

      Great Online Resources for USA-Italy Shipping

      Here are some reliable and authoritative sources to support your understanding and research on shipping between the United States and Italy:

      1. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
      2. Italian Customs Agency (Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli)
        • Website: Italian Customs Agency
        • Description: Offers detailed guidance on customs procedures, import/export regulations, and tariffs for Italy.
      3. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)
        • Website: Federal Maritime Commission
        • Description: Regulates international ocean transportation for the United States, offering insights into shipping practices, carrier rates, and legal requirements.
      4. International Air Transport Association (IATA)
      5. World Customs Organization (WCO)
        • Website: World Customs Organization
        • Description: An independent intergovernmental body dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations worldwide.
      6. European Commission Taxation and Customs Union
      7. U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC)
      8. International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

      These sources will help you navigate the complexities of international shipping and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

      Knowledge base
      Italy

      Website customs
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: IT
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      ITA
      Country numeric code:
      380
      GDP:
      USD 3.385 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      Euro
      Inhabitants:
      58971638
      Language:
      Italian

      Freight forwarders in Italy

      Italy has no freight forwarders

      Seaports in the United States
      La Spezia
      Livorno
      Augusta
      Bagnoli
      Bari
      Brindisi
      Gela
      Genoa
      Airports in Italy
      Piacenza San Damiano Air Base
      Vercelli Airport
      Lampedusa Airport
      Federico Fellini International Airport
      Cervia Air Base
      Casale Monferrato Airport
      Malpensa International Airport
      Siena-Ampugnano Airport
      Italy

      Website customs
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: IT
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      ITA
      Country numeric code:
      380
      GDP:
      USD 3.385 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      Euro
      Inhabitants:
      58971638
      Language:
      Italian

      Freight forwarders in Italy

      Italy has no freight forwarders

      Seaports in the United States
      La Spezia
      Livorno
      Augusta
      Bagnoli
      Bari
      Brindisi
      Gela
      Genoa
      Airports in Italy
      Piacenza San Damiano Air Base
      Vercelli Airport
      Lampedusa Airport
      Federico Fellini International Airport
      Cervia Air Base
      Casale Monferrato Airport
      Malpensa International Airport
      Siena-Ampugnano Airport
      the United States

      Website customs the United States
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: US
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      USA
      Country numeric code:
      840
      GDP:
      USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      US Dollar
      Inhabitants:
      335893238
      Language:
      English

      Freight forwarders in the United States
      Seaports in the United States
      Charleston
      Chicago
      Anacortes
      Ashtabula
      Baltimore
      Baton Rouge
      Beaumont
      Boston
      Airports in the United States
      Hurlburt Field
      Mc Minnville Municipal Airport
      San Clemente Island Naval Auxiliary Landing Field
      Lake Hood Airport
      Cartersville Airport
      Sugar Loaf Shores Airport
      Brooks Field
      Old Rhinebeck Airport
      Knowledge base
      Scroll to Top