Understanding The Cost Of Shipping From The Us To Belize

Shipping costs from the United States to Belize vary depending on the chosen shipping company and the type of shipping. The cost is calculated based on the weight and size of the package, with some companies offering flat-rate pricing for specific box sizes. Various companies provide shipping services between these two countries, including FedEx, UPS, and MyUS, with the latter claiming to offer rates as low as $27.56 for shipping to Belize.

Shipping costs and delivery times

Shipping costs from the United States to Belize vary depending on the shipping company, the type of service, and the weight and dimensions of the package. It is important to note that shipping costs may also be influenced by the type of goods being shipped, with some items incurring additional costs due to special handling or regulatory requirements.

When it comes to shipping companies, there are several options available, each with its own rates and delivery times. For example, FedEx offers a range of international shipping services, including priority and economy options, with delivery times ranging from 1 to 6 business days, depending on the destination. Similarly, MyUS, in partnership with major carriers such as Aramex, DHL, FedEx, and UPS, offers discounted shipping rates and fast delivery times, with economy options delivering in 4 to 10 business days and express options as quick as 1 to 4 business days.

Another factor that affects shipping costs is the weight of the package. Most courier services, including FedEx, use package weight to determine the cost of shipping. Additionally, some companies, like MyUS, also offer package consolidation services, which can help reduce shipping costs by combining multiple purchases into a single package. This can result in significant savings, with MyUS members saving up to 80% on international shipping rates.

The dimensions of the package also play a role in determining shipping costs. While some companies, like MyUS, calculate costs based solely on weight, others use dimensional weight, which takes into account the length, width, and height of the package. This means that larger packages may incur higher shipping charges, even if they weigh less than smaller packages.

In addition to the weight and dimensions, the type of goods being shipped can also impact the cost of shipping. Certain items, such as hazardous materials, perishables, or oversized shipments, may require specialised handling or equipment, which can increase shipping costs. It is important to carefully review the list of restricted and prohibited items when shipping to Belize, as non-compliance can result in delays, additional charges, or even the confiscation of goods.

Overall, the cost of shipping from the United States to Belize will depend on a combination of factors, including the shipping company selected, the type of service chosen, the weight and dimensions of the package, and the specific items being shipped. By comparing rates, taking advantage of package consolidation, and choosing the most appropriate service for your needs, you can optimise your shipping costs and ensure timely delivery to Belize.

Choosing a courier service

When choosing a courier service, there are several factors to consider to ensure the best value for your business.

Firstly, consider the availability of the courier service. While most courier companies offer a premium service, it is important to ensure that they are aware of your average monthly order volume and typical delivery times. Local courier services are often more efficient and flexible for deliveries within the same city.

Next, evaluate the size and weight limitations of the courier. This is particularly important if you are delivering large or heavy items, such as furniture. Courier services use volumetric weight to determine the shipping cost, which can be calculated using the formula: (Length x Width x Depth) / 6000.

It is also crucial to select a courier that provides proof of delivery and offers parcel tracking. This enhances the delivery experience for your customers and provides peace of mind, especially for shipments that take several hours or days to arrive.

Cost is another essential factor when choosing a courier service. While the lowest-cost option may be tempting, remember that it may not always provide the best value. Verify that the courier can deliver the level of service and security you require before making a decision based on cost alone.

Finally, consider insurance. If you are shipping valuable goods or confidential information, choosing a courier that provides insurance can give you added peace of mind. Research the insurance coverage offered by different couriers to make an informed decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose a courier service that will support your business's efficiency and productivity while meeting your specific needs.

Prohibited items

When shipping from the United States to Belize, it is essential to be aware of prohibited items to avoid any legal issues or delays. Here is a comprehensive list of items that are prohibited for shipment:

• Human remains, including corpses, organs, body parts, and cremated or disinterred remains.
• Explosives, except for Class 1.4 explosives allowed to specific countries.
• Firearms, weaponry, and their parts, including bump fire stocks, 3D printed weapons, and ghost guns.
• Perishable food items that require refrigeration or environmental control.
• Live animals, including insects, except as provided by specific guidelines.
• Plants and plant materials, including cut flowers (with some exceptions for imports from the US to Canada and a few other countries).
• Lottery tickets and gambling devices prohibited by law.
• Money, including coins, cash, currency, paper money, and negotiable instruments.
• Pornographic and/or obscene material.
• Hazardous waste, such as used hypodermic needles or syringes.
• Shipments that may cause damage or delay to equipment, personnel, or other shipments.
• Shipments requiring special licenses or permits for transportation, importation, or exportation.
• Counterfeit goods, including trademark infringements and "knock-offs."
• Tobacco and tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco.
• Electronic cigarettes and related components, liquids, or gels.
• Marijuana, medicinal or recreational, and any product containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or synthetic cannabinoids.
• Unrefined hemp plants and their derivatives, except as permitted by US regulations.
• Substances not approved for medical use by the US Food and Drug Administration and listed as Drugs or Chemicals of Concern.
• Shipments with a declared value exceeding the permitted limit for the destination.
• Dangerous goods, except as permitted under specific guidelines.
• Packages that are wet, leaking, or emitting odors.
• Wildlife products requiring US Fish and Wildlife Service export clearance.
• In-bond shipments destined for or withdrawn from a Foreign Trade Zone or bonded warehouse, without the necessary options selected.
• Peanut butter, jam, jellies, pasta, wheat flour, rice, peppers, and pepper sauces.
• Beer, alcohol, spirits, and carbonated beverages.
• Cigarettes and other tobacco products.
• Products made of wood.
• Pharmaceutical medicines.
• Pesticides.
• Telecommunication equipment.
• Certain gases and chemicals deemed harmful to the environment.
• Fuel.
• Beans and rice, if there is a surplus on the domestic market.
• Goods containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.

Please note that this list may not be exhaustive, and it is essential to review the relevant websites and guidelines provided by shipping companies and government organizations for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.

Customs and regulations

When shipping to Belize, it is important to be aware of the restricted and prohibited items. For instance, certain items are prohibited from being shipped from the US to Belize due to customs laws and delivery company or airline restrictions. These include prescription medications, prescription medical devices, medical devices not FDA-approved, and controlled substances such as hormones and steroids. In addition, items that are not labelled in English or do not meet FDA-approved labelling requirements are also restricted.

Other items that are prohibited include perishable products, lab reagents, biologics, cultures, medical specimens, poisonous and toxic substances, explosives, firearms, ammunition, and military or law enforcement equipment. Agricultural products, certain seeds, live or dead plants, and unfinished or untreated wood are also on the restricted list. It is crucial to review the prohibited and restricted items guide before shipping to avoid any issues.

When importing goods into Belize, specific documentation is required, including an import permit, commercial invoice, bill of lading/air waybill, and a packing list. Health and sanitary certificates, fumigation certificates, and certificates of origin may also be necessary, depending on the goods being imported. The importer must also be present for customs clearance.

Belize calculates import duty and taxes using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) method, which takes into account the value of the imported goods and shipping costs. The tax threshold is 0 USD, and the tax rate is 12.5%.

It is worth noting that travellers entering Belize from non-European Union countries can bring in certain items duty-free, such as a limited quantity of cigarettes, cigarillos, tobacco, cigars, spirits, wine, and perfumes. However, items such as meat and meat products, processed food items, and live animals are restricted from entry into Belize.

Freight forwarding companies

When shipping from the United States to Belize, it is important to hire a freight forwarding company that understands the local business culture, language, and customs regulations. Latin American Cargo (LAC) is one such company, offering easy, reliable, and cost-effective international air and sea freight shipping solutions to Belize. LAC provides a wide range of services, including door-to-port, port-to-port, and door-to-door transportation to the port of Belize City. They also offer specialised transportation services for perishables, hazardous materials, or oversized shipments.

Another option is Belize Concierge & Shipping (BCS), which offers freight forwarding services from the USA to Belize. Customers report that BCS provides reliable, convenient, and affordable services, with deliveries that are hassle-free and always on time.

MyUS is another company that offers shipping from the US to Belize. They have partnerships with major global carriers, including Aramex, DHL, FedEx, and UPS, and offer exclusive low rates, fast delivery times, and door-to-door tracking on every shipment. MyUS members can also save up to 80% on shipping with package consolidation services.

Other freight forwarding companies that ship to Belize include:

• BTALCO
• EZone
• Joseph Freight Limited

Frequently asked questions