3 min read Shipping internationally has always come with a few extra headaches with customs forms, duties, taxes, and those unpredictable delays when a package gets held up at the border.
But things have changed.
With the suspension of the free de minimis threshold in 2025, every package entering the U.S. now requires duties and taxes to be paid, regardless of value. That means cross border compliance isn’t just a best practice anymore, it’s mandatory.
Thankfully, tools like Zonos Prepay make it much easier to stay compliant and keep your international shipments moving smoothly. And if you’re using SKULabs, getting started is easier than ever.
What Is Zonos Prepay?
The Zonos Prepay app is designed to simplify customs compliance at the source, before the package ever leaves your facility.
With this app, shippers (especially those using postal carriers) can either photograph or enter product details, and Zonos uses AI to suggest the correct customs classification. It then calculates the required duties and taxes, lets you pay them in advance, and issues a Declaration ID or QR code. That code proves the duties have been paid and can be scanned by the postal service to validate the shipment.
The result? Less friction at the border, faster delivery, and fewer surprises for you or your customers.
For High-Volume Shippers: Verified Accounts and API Integration
If you’re shipping at scale, Zonos offers a Verified Account option that automates much of the process.
Here’s how it works:
- Duties and taxes are collected automatically at the time of order.
- Payments are handled and remitted on your behalf.
- The process integrates seamlessly into your shipping workflow, either via API or through SKULabs.
When an order is created, Zonos calculates duties, generates a Declaration ID, and links it directly to the shipping label. No extra steps. No manual customs handling.
Why Merchants Love It
Using Zonos Prepay offers real-world benefits that go beyond just compliance:
- Fewer shipping delays. No waiting around for customs payments or paperwork.
- Fewer surprises. Everything is calculated and paid upfront.
- Built-in compliance. Stay aligned with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) and reduce the risk of penalties or rejected shipments.
- Scalable global shipping. Zonos supports multiple countries and currencies, so you can grow internationally without new systems or surprises every time you open a new market.
Shipping from Canada Just Got Easier!
If you’re already using SKULabs to ship from Canada to the U.S., great news, we now support Zonos for Canada Post shipments!
This means connecting your Zonos account is now quick and simple and once you’re set up, you’ll gain access to a smoother, more transparent cross border shipping experience for your customers.
To get started, follow the step-by-step guide in this article or reach out to our support team for help getting set up.
Need help or want to learn more?
Chat with us live or book a demo directly on our website, we’d be happy to walk you through how Zonos and SKULabs can simplify your international shipping.
