Frequently asked shipping questions

Commodity information should include:

Commodity Description: Each description of a commodity in your shipment should include information about what the commodity is, how many units are included in the shipment (in the case of multiple identical items), what it is made from and what its intended use is.

Unit of Measure: Select the unit of measure used to describe one unit of the commodity item (e.g., pieces, dozen, pair).

Commodity Weight: Enter the weight of the commodity and indicate how it is calculated. The drop-down menu defaults to As totals. For example, if you are shipping a dozen pair of shoes that weigh 2 lbs. per pair, enter a total weight of 24 lbs. and leave the default calculation of As totals, or enter a per-pair weight of 2 lbs. and select Per unit.

Customs Value: Enter the value assigned to the commodity and indicate how it is calculated. The drop-down menu defaults to As totals. For example, if you are shipping a dozen pair of shoes valued at $100 per pair, enter a total value of $1,200 and leave the default calculation of As totals or enter a per-pair value of $100 and select Per unit.’ The customs value is the transactional or sale price for the contents of the shipment if it is being sold. If the shipment is not being sold, the customs value should be the fair market value. The fair market value is the price that a seller would get from a buyer for the contents of the shipment if it were to be sold on the open market. Nominal values are not acceptable for customs and can lead to customs fines and/or seizure of the shipment. Note: If you want to convert the value from a foreign currency utilizing the Interbank rate, click the Currency Converter icon next to the Customs Value drop-down menu. This tool should be used as a guide only.

Country of Manufacture: Select the country where the commodity was originally manufactured or produced.

Harmonized Code: Enter the harmonized code for the commodity. If you do not know the harmonized code for your commodity, click Find code. Follow the instructions for finding the harmonized code associated with your commodity. For U.S. exports, the 10-digit code can be either a Harmonized number or the Schedule B Commodity Number. Entering a proper harmonized code allows FedEx to help you determine the necessary customs documentation as well as make a more accurate duty and tax estimate.

Export License Number and Expiration Date: To display these fields, click Additional commodity information (optional) then enter the export license number and its expiration date (MMDDYYYY). An export license is a government document authorizing the export of specific goods from a particular origin country in specific quantities to a particular destination.