Need Advice - Experienced US Seller

[foreverflash]

I really need some help and advice, but it HAS to be from an experienced US member who sells. I'm at a loss; torn between what workers at USPS tell me and what people abroad are telling me regarding what options are available FROM USPS when shipping international.

The guy at USPS has told me numerous times:

1. USPS does not offer tracking international. Period.
2. USPS has weight limit policy; Under 4 lbs can go First class (cheapest), over 4 lbs can only go priority.

Now, people abroad are telling me all sorts of things:

1. USPS does offer tracking international; a number that can be used on their website to confirm delivery. Begins with a C or L.
2. People have told me I should mark as "gift" with low value to pass through customs easier. If I do this I can't add insurance as I would have to declare a TRUE value!

Is Insurance always available for international shipping?



Are these things I'm being told by the worker at USPS correct?