ATLANTA — UPS is implementing a system that it says will allow its international shipments to cross borders more quickly.
Starting in January, UPS shipments will be able to clear customs offices using electronic data instead of paper forms, the company said.
Most small packages the Atlanta-based company ships internationally currently require a commercial invoice.
The company said Tuesday that its system will integrate order processing, shipment preparation and commercial invoice data and then transmit that data to customs offices around the world, eliminating the need for paper commercial invoices.
UPS said the system will speed up the international shipping process, saving time and money for businesses.
Also, UPS said it is making it easier for recipients of packages to return those items to 98 countries or territories.
Those recipients can receive an international return label and commercial invoice via e-mail, local post or from a UPS driver picking up the return package, UPS said.
UPS said its paperless invoice option will be provided to customers at no additional charge, while rates for UPS’ international returns option vary depending upon the shipment.
UPS, also known as United Parcel Service Inc., is the world’s largest shipping carrier.
