PS Form 2976-B: USPS Customs Form for Priority Mail Express International (2025 Guide)

PS Form 2976-B customs declaration for Priority Mail Express International

Quick Answer: PS Form 2976-B

  • Specific to: Priority Mail Express International only
  • Combines: Customs declaration + Express tracking label
  • Required for: All Express international shipments with merchandise
  • Not interchangeable: Cannot substitute with 2976 or 2976-A

PS Form 2976-B is the specialized USPS PS Form 2976-B customs form created exclusively for Priority Mail Express International shipments. Unlike standard PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A, this Priority Mail Express International customs form is integrated with Express mail documentation and includes features specific to expedited international delivery. This guide explains when you need PS Form 2976-B, how to fill it out correctly, and what makes it different from other customs forms.

What is the USPS PS Form 2976-B Customs Form?

The USPS PS Form 2976-B customs form is a customs declaration and shipping label combination form designed specifically for Priority Mail Express International service. This Priority Mail Express International customs form serves dual purposes: declaring package contents for customs clearance and providing Express mail tracking and delivery documentation. The form is integrated into the Priority Mail Express International mailing process and includes barcode tracking, delivery confirmation, and customs information all on one multi-part label. USPS requires this specific form for all Express international shipments containing merchandise or goods. PS Form 2976-B is now always electronically generated through USPS Click-N-Ship online or at retail counter systems—the old pre-printed hand-written 2976-B labels are obsolete.

When Is PS Form 2976-B Required?

You must use PS Form 2976-B when:

  • Using Priority Mail Express International: This is the only customs form accepted for this service
  • Shipping merchandise internationally: Any goods, gifts, or commercial items sent via Express
  • Requiring expedited international delivery: 3-5 business day delivery to most countries
  • Needing tracking and insurance: Includes tracking and built-in insurance (up to $100 for documents and up to $200 for merchandise, with options to buy more depending on destination)

You cannot use PS Form 2976-B for:

  • Priority Mail International (use 2976 or 2976-A)
  • First-Class Package International Service (use 2976 or 2976-A)
  • Documents-only Express mail (may not require customs form depending on destination)

How to Fill Out PS Form 2976-B: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sender Information

  • From (Name): Your full name or business name
  • Address: Complete return address with street, city, state, ZIP+4
  • Phone: Contact number including area code
  • Email (optional): For delivery notifications

Step 2: Recipient Information

  • To (Name): Recipient's full legal name (as it appears on ID)
  • Address: Complete international address in local format (see our envelope addressing guide for proper international address formatting)
  • Phone: Recipient phone number with country code (important for Express delivery)
  • Email (optional): Recipient email for tracking updates

Step 3: Package Details

  • Weight: Accurate weight in pounds and ounces (USPS will verify)
  • Dimensions: Length, width, height for proper postage calculation
  • Declared Value: For insurance purposes (Express includes up to $100 for documents and up to $200 for merchandise, with options to buy more depending on destination)

Step 4: Customs Declaration

This section is critical for customs clearance (see our customs form comparison guide for more details):

  • Detailed description: Specific item names (e.g., "Men's leather belt, black")
  • Quantity: Number of each item
  • Value (USD): Fair market value for each item type
  • Weight per item: Individual item weights
  • Country of origin: Where items were manufactured
  • HS Tariff Number (if known): Helps expedite customs clearance

Step 5: Type of Shipment

Select Gift, Merchandise, Sample, Documents, or Other. Marking accurately affects customs duties the recipient may pay.

Step 6: Signature and Certification

  • Certify contents are accurately described and valued
  • Sign and date the form
  • USPS clerk will also sign as acceptance proof

Priority Mail Express International Specific Requirements

Express mail has additional requirements beyond standard international mail:

  • Recipient phone number is mandatory: Express carriers need to contact recipient for delivery
  • Accurate delivery address: Express delivery attempts are limited; incorrect address causes major delays (learn more about proper international addressing)
  • Commercial invoice (if applicable): Business shipments may need additional documentation
  • Restricted items check: Some countries prohibit certain items even via Express
  • Delivery signature: Express international requires recipient or authorized signature, similar to USPS signature required services

Express Delivery Times

Priority Mail Express International delivers in 3-5 business days to most countries, but customs clearance can add time. Provide complete and accurate customs information to avoid delays.

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PS Form 2976-B vs Other Customs Forms

Understanding which form to use prevents delays:

Feature2976 (CN 22)2976-A (CN 23)2976-B
Mail servicePriority Mail Int'l, First-ClassPriority Mail Int'l, First-ClassExpress Int'l ONLY
Value limitUnder $400Over $400Any value
FormatAdhesive labelFull page in pouchMulti-part label
TrackingSeparate tracking labelSeparate tracking labelIntegrated tracking

See our complete guide to choosing the right USPS customs form.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using wrong form: Priority Mail Express International requires 2976-B, not 2976 or 2976-A
  • Missing recipient phone: Express delivery cannot be completed without a contact number
  • Incomplete address: Express delivery attempts are limited; wrong address wastes time and money
  • Vague descriptions: "Gift" or "Merchandise" delays Express customs clearance
  • Not declaring full value: Insurance claims require accurate declared value
  • Assuming faster customs: Express speeds up delivery but not necessarily customs processing

FAQs

What is PS Form 2976-B used for?

PS Form 2976-B is the customs declaration form specifically designed for Priority Mail Express International shipments. It combines customs declaration with Express mail tracking and delivery documentation.

Is PS Form 2976-B required for all Priority Mail Express International?

Yes, for Express International packages that require a customs form (merchandise and most non-document shipments). All Priority Mail Express International packages containing merchandise must use PS Form 2976-B regardless of value. Some documents-only shipments may not require a customs form depending on country rules, but merchandise shipments always do.

Can I use PS Form 2976 or 2976-A instead of 2976-B for Express mail?

No. Priority Mail Express International specifically requires PS Form 2976-B. Using the wrong form will delay your shipment or cause it to be rejected.

Where do I get PS Form 2976-B?

At the post office counter when you purchase Priority Mail Express International service. The form is integrated with the Express mailing label and not available separately like standard customs forms.

How long does Priority Mail Express International take?

3-5 business days to most major countries, but customs clearance can add time. Not all countries are served by Express International; check USPS country list before mailing.

Does Priority Mail Express International include insurance?

Yes. Express International includes built-in insurance (up to $100 for documents and up to $200 for merchandise). Additional insurance can be purchased up to $5,000 depending on destination country.

Can I track Priority Mail Express International?

Yes. PS Form 2976-B includes integrated tracking. You receive a tracking number and can monitor your package online at USPS.com and through the destination country's postal service.

What if my Express International package is delayed at customs?

Customs delays are outside USPS control. Ensure you provided complete and accurate information on PS Form 2976-B. Contact the destination country's customs office using the tracking information for status updates.

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