Logistics for tech startups: Secure international shipping of prototypes and electronics

International delivery of high-tech equipment is not just transportation, but risk management. For startups, delays at customs or damage to a single prototype can cost investments. In this article, we will discuss how to deliver electronics to the US, EU, or Asia in 5–7 days without bureaucracy or damage.

Key challenges in shipping high-tech cargo

Prototypes and testing equipment are fragile, high-value, and often unique items. Their transportation involves three main risks:

• Physical safety: risk of damage from vibrations and shocks during air transportation.
• Timelines: delays can disrupt investor presentations or participation in international exhibitions.
• Customs procedures: prototypes often have no commercial value, which complicates declaration and requires specialized expertise.

That is why logistics must be as predictable as possible. High-quality packaging, fast air delivery, and properly prepared documents significantly reduce risks and speed up customs clearance.

Why speed is critical for technology startups

Startups always have a deadline on which everything depends:

• Participation in an international exhibition;
• Testing with partners;
• Grant preparation.

Therefore, every hour of delivery matters. Express air delivery makes it possible to ship cargo to the USA, the EU, or Asia in just 5–7 days.

→ Detailed international delivery timelines depend on the destination country and shipment type — you can find up-to-date information on estimated delivery times via the link.

How to properly pack a prototype or sensitive electronics

Proper packaging accounts for 90% of cargo integrity. For electronics, we recommend:

• ESD protection (antistatic): use of metallized bags and antistatic film to protect microchips from electrostatic discharge. Even minor static discharge can damage electronics.
• Cushioning: polyurethane foam inserts or custom cases that withstand drops and pressure.
• Moisture protection: use of hermetic barrier bags and desiccants.

Mandatory labeling
A key element of safety is clear labeling. The packaging must include:

• Fragility warnings: Fragile, Sensitive Electronics, Do Not Drop.
• Customs status: Non-commercial sample / Prototype (to simplify customs procedures).

GlobalPost guarantees full compliance with all logistics requirements — from proper packaging to correct customs clearance.

To estimate shipping costs, use our online calculator — the calculation takes just a few minutes.

Customs clearance: solutions for startups

For successful customs clearance, we use proven tools:

• ATA carnet — the optimal solution for temporary import of equipment for exhibitions, presentations, or demonstrations without paying duties and taxes.
• “Non-commercial sample” status — proper declaration of samples and prototypes that helps avoid unnecessary bureaucracy for single shipments.
• Mandatory declaration — if established value or weight limits are exceeded, or for certain types of equipment, formal customs clearance is required in accordance with the destination country’s regulations.

Each shipment has its own specifics, so a preliminary consultation with experts helps avoid fines, delays, or confiscation.

Comprehensive GlobalPost solutions for secure export

GlobalPost provides safe international delivery of electronics, prototypes, and other complex equipment, relying on practical logistics experience since 2012.

• Express air delivery — priority delivery times starting from 5 days for urgent startup shipments.
• Full insurance coverage — financial protection of equipment value throughout the entire delivery route.
• Reverse logistics — organization of equipment return to Ukraine or to the next destination after exhibitions or presentations.
• Proven experience — the GlobalPost team has hands-on experience delivering complex medical and robotic equipment for international projects.

GlobalPost — experience that works for you. We have proven expertise in transporting complex and unique cargo, explore our successful cases via the link.

Conclusion

For the safe export of electronics, it is important to work with a logistics partner that has practical experience in international shipments and understands the specifics of complex cargo. GlobalPost provides comprehensive delivery support — from route planning and customs clearance to deadline control and transparent communication at every stage.