Which USPS Customs Form Do You Need?
Quick Answer: Choose Your Customs Form
- Documents only? No customs form needed
- Package under $400? Use PS Form 2976 (CN 22)
- Package over $400? Use PS Form 2976-A (CN 23)
- Priority Mail Express International? Use PS Form 2976-B
Choosing the correct USPS customs form for international mail can be confusing. The wrong form causes delays, rejections, or packages returned to sender. USPS offers three main customs declaration forms: PS Form 2976 (CN 22), PS Form 2976-A (CN 23), and PS Form 2976-B. This guide provides a decision tree, comparison table, and clear explanations to help you select the right customs form every time.
In This Guide
Decision Tree: Which Customs Form to Use
Answer these questions to determine which customs form you need:
1. What are you mailing?
- Documents only (no merchandise): → No customs form needed
- Merchandise, gifts, or goods: → Continue to question 2
2. What mail service are you using?
- Priority Mail Express International: → Use PS Form 2976-B
- Priority Mail International or First-Class Package International: → Continue to question 3
3. What is the total value of your package?
- Under $400: → Use PS Form 2976 (CN 22)
- Over $400: → Use PS Form 2976-A (CN 23)
USPS Customs Forms Comparison Table
Compare all three USPS customs forms side by side:
| Feature | PS Form 2976 (CN 22) | PS Form 2976-A (CN 23) | PS Form 2976-B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official name | Customs Declaration CN 22 | Customs Declaration CN 23 | Express Mail Customs Declaration |
| Format | Small adhesive label | Full-page form in clear pouch | Multi-part integrated label |
| Value limit | Under $400 | Over $400 (or any value if preferred) | Any value |
| Mail services | Priority Mail Int'l, First-Class Package Int'l | Priority Mail Int'l, First-Class Package Int'l | Priority Mail Express Int'l ONLY |
| Item listing space | Limited (brief description) | Extensive (multiple items detailed) | Moderate (integrated with label) |
| Best for | Small packages, simple gifts | High-value or multi-item packages | Express international shipments |
| Tracking | Separate tracking label required | Separate tracking label required | Integrated tracking barcode |
| Where to get | Post office or usps.com | Post office or usps.com | Post office (Express service counter) |
PS Form 2976 (CN 22) Overview
When to use:
- International packages valued under $400
- Simple gifts or merchandise with few items
- Priority Mail International or First-Class Package International
Key features:
- Small green adhesive label that sticks to package exterior
- Quick to fill out with basic information
- Free at post offices or downloadable from usps.com
- Accepted by most countries for low-value shipments
For detailed instructions, see our complete PS Form 2976 guide.
PS Form 2976-A (CN 23) Overview
When to use:
- International packages valued over $400
- Packages with multiple items requiring detailed listing
- Commercial shipments or items for resale
- When destination country requires detailed documentation
Key features:
- Full-page form with extensive space for itemization
- Placed in clear customs envelope attached to package
- Includes fields for HS tariff numbers and country of origin
- Can list unlimited items (attach additional sheets if needed)
For detailed instructions, see our complete PS Form 2976-A guide.
PS Form 2976-B Overview
When to use:
- Priority Mail Express International ONLY
- Any value package sent via Express
- When you need expedited international delivery (3-5 days)
Key features:
- Combines customs declaration with Express mailing label
- Integrated tracking barcode
- Cannot be used for other mail services (not interchangeable)
- Only available at post office Express service counter
For detailed instructions, see our complete PS Form 2976-B guide.
Value Thresholds and Weight Limits
Understanding value and weight limits helps you choose the right form:
$400 Value Threshold Explained
- Under $400: PS Form 2976 (CN 22) is sufficient for most countries
- Over $400: Must use PS Form 2976-A (CN 23) for proper customs documentation
- Some countries: May require CN 23 even for values under $400 (check USPS country restrictions)
Weight limits by mail service:
- First-Class Package International: Up to 4 lbs (64 oz)
- Priority Mail International: Up to 70 lbs (varies by country)
- Priority Mail Express International: Up to 70 lbs (varies by country)
Skip the Customs Form Confusion
The Letter Pilot handles all international mailing documentation for you. We automatically select and fill out the correct customs forms based on your destination and contents. Upload your letter and we will mail it next business day.
Send a Letter Online →FAQs
Which USPS customs form do I need for international mail?
Use PS Form 2976 (CN 22) for packages under $400, PS Form 2976-A (CN 23) for packages over $400, and PS Form 2976-B for Priority Mail Express International. Documents-only letters do not require customs forms.
What is the difference between CN 22 and CN 23 customs forms?
CN 22 (PS Form 2976) is a small adhesive label for packages under $400. CN 23 (PS Form 2976-A) is a full-page form for packages over $400 or requiring detailed itemized lists.
Do I need a customs form for international letters?
Only if the letter contains merchandise, gifts, or goods. Letters containing only documents or papers do not require customs declarations.
Can I use PS Form 2976-A for packages under $400?
Yes. You can use 2976-A for any value if you prefer more detailed documentation space. However, you cannot use 2976 (CN 22) for packages over $400.
What happens if I use the wrong customs form?
USPS may reject the package and return it to you for proper documentation. Using the wrong form delays delivery and may result in customs penalties or seizure.
Where can I get USPS customs forms?
Free at any post office counter or download from usps.com. PS Form 2976 and 2976-A are available for free download. PS Form 2976-B is only available at the post office as part of Priority Mail Express International service.
Do all countries accept the same customs forms?
Most countries accept CN 22 and CN 23 as they are international postal standards. However, some countries have additional requirements or restrictions. Check USPS International Mail Manual for country-specific rules.
How do I know the value of my package for customs purposes?
Use the fair market value of the items—what someone would pay for them. For gifts, use the price you paid. For used items, estimate current value. Never undervalue items to avoid duties; this is customs fraud.
Can I handwrite customs forms?
Yes. You can handwrite PS Form 2976 and 2976-A clearly in pen. For PS Form 2976-B, you fill it out at the post office counter when purchasing Express service.
What if my package contains both documents and merchandise?
You need a customs form (2976, 2976-A, or 2976-B depending on value and service). List the merchandise and note "documents" as a separate line item with nominal or zero value.
Related Guides
- PS Form 2976: Short Customs Form (CN 22)
- PS Form 2976-A: Detailed Customs Form (CN 23)
- PS Form 2976-B: Express International Customs Form
- What is Certified Mail?
Tags: usps customs forms, cn 22 vs cn 23, international mail customs, customs declaration comparison, ps form 2976 comparison