What is the difference between international express and domestic express?

There are differences between international and domestic express delivery in many aspects. The following is a detailed comparison:

1. Different charging methods

Domestic express delivery: Generally, the actual weight is used as the weight for charging, and the fee is relatively low. The charging standards of different express delivery companies are also different.

International express delivery: The fee calculation is relatively complicated. Generally, the total weight (i.e. the larger of the volume weight or the actual weight) is used for charging. The calculation formula of volume weight is usually: length (CM) × width (CM) × height (CM) / 5000 = weight (KG). For the four major express delivery companies (TNT, UPS, FedEx, DHL), there may also be a charging method of first weight + additional weight or billing weight × price per kilogram. In addition, international express delivery may also involve additional fees such as customs clearance fees and taxes.

2. Different transportation methods

Domestic express delivery: There are many domestic couriers and dense outlets, providing a variety of transportation methods, including road, rail, aviation, etc., to meet the needs of different customers.

International express delivery: There are relatively few international express delivery methods, and the common ones are air, sea, truck and rail. Among them, air transport is the most commonly used method because it is fast but relatively expensive. Sea transport is suitable for the transportation of bulk goods, which is low-cost but takes a long time to transport. Truck and rail transport are options between air and sea transport, which have a certain speed and are relatively economical.

3. Different packaging requirements

Domestic express: Domestic express has relatively low requirements for packaging, and mainly uses strong outer packaging, such as cartons, woven bags, wooden boxes, etc. However, in recent years, with the improvement of environmental awareness, domestic express delivery has also gradually promoted green packaging.

International express: International express has more stringent requirements for packaging. Generally, carton packaging is required, and wood, iron, glass bottles or plastic packaging cannot be used. The packaging must be substantial to prevent damage or leakage during transportation. In addition, special packaging treatment is required for specific items (such as pianos, ceramics, etc.).

4. Different transportable items

Domestic express: The range of domestic express transport items is relatively wide, as long as it is not dangerous goods or flammable and explosive items, it can basically be transported. Moreover, different items can be mixed in one package for delivery.

International express: The transported items of international express are subject to customs restrictions and prohibited items. Many items cannot be transported in international express, such as flammable and explosive items, dangerous goods, animals and plants and their products, etc. In addition, items of different categories cannot be mixed and must be packaged separately for customs declaration.

5. Different information is filled in the mailing list

Domestic express: The filling of the domestic express list is relatively simple. Generally, you only need to write the mailing address, telephone number, contact information and the approximate name of the item.

International express: The requirements for filling in the list of international express are more stringent. It needs to be filled in in English and the details of the products in the package are listed in detail. In addition, the detailed information of the recipient, including name, address, telephone number, etc., is also required. This information is crucial for customs clearance and delivery.

There are significant differences between international and domestic express in terms of charging methods, transportation methods, packaging requirements, transportable items, and filling in mailing list information. Therefore, when choosing an express delivery method, you need to choose according to your needs and actual situation.