INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING SERVICE SELECTION requires matching the customer's needs (time-sensitivity) with the correct USPS service. USPS INTERNATIONAL SERVICES for time-sensitive items: PRIORITY MAIL EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL (PMEI): fastest USPS international service; guaranteed delivery time of 3-5 business days to most major countries; includes tracking and $200 of insurance; flat-rate envelopes and boxes available; money-back guarantee for delays (for most destinations); FIRST-CLASS PACKAGE INTERNATIONAL SERVICE (FCPIS): slower (varies widely by destination — can be 7-21+ days); no guaranteed delivery time; lower cost; appropriate for non-time-sensitive items; PRIORITY MAIL INTERNATIONAL (PMI): intermediate option; 6-10 business days typical; insurance included; tracking available; GXG (Global Express Guaranteed): fastest option; operated with FedEx; 1-3 days to many countries; highest cost. KEY CUSTOMER ADVISORY — CUSTOMS: ALWAYS inform customers that customs processing in the destination country is outside USPS control and can add unpredictable delays; even Express international shipments may be held at customs; 'guaranteed' refers to USPS's handling time to the destination country's postal service, not total door-to-door time after customs.
Prohibited items: certain items are prohibited or restricted in specific countries; customers should check the USPS International Mail Manual (IMM) for restrictions; common restrictions include: liquids, batteries, aerosols, certain food items.
Media mail: domestic only; never appropriate for international shipments.
Service matching: identify what the customer truly needs (speed, tracking, insurance, cost) then recommend the service that best fits — don't just recommend the cheapest option when speed is critical.