Domestic versus International Shipments, Forms, Permits and Timelines

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What shipment forms and/or permits are needed for each type of shipment?

SHIPMENT FORMS

Shipment Type	Domestic	International
Printed Matter (paper only)	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form 1884
General Commodities (any books, office/lab supplies and items)	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form 1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies
Exhibits	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form-1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies
Equipment	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form 1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies
Specimens	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form 1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies Permit (Import/Export)– if applicable
Chemicals	Request for Shipment - Form 1884	Request for Shipment - Form 1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Permit (Import/Export) - if applicable
Live Animals	Request for Shipment - https://oma.od.nih.gov/Lists/DMSFormsList/Attachments/413/NIH-1884.pdf Animal Health & Shipping Certificate	Request for Shipment - Form 1884 Commercial Invoice – 3 copies Animal Health & Shipping Certificate Permit (Import/Export) - if applicable

Forms Legend
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – can be obtained from the manufacturer or distributor.

How far in advance should I submit my request for shipment if I want it to arrive on a certain day?
You should send your request for shipment(s) as far in advance as possible. There is no set standard for when your shipment is likely to arrive. You should be aware that international shipments require a two to three (2 – 3) day minimum to transport and clear Customs. Additionally, the time involved in generating or obtaining the necessary paperwork for your shipment (such as Material Data Safety Sheets, Import or Export Permits, or an Animal Health & Shipping Certificate) can vary from additional days to additional weeks, so plan the timing of your shipment well in advance.