To send a package overseas, you’ll need to follow a few steps to make sure it gets there safely and meets international shipping rules.
First off, let’s talk about the address. Write down the recipient’s full name and address, and make sure to use all capital letters if you’re handwriting it. It’s really important that your writing is clear, easy to read, and correct. And don’t forget to include your own return address! It’s always better to use a printed or typed label instead of handwriting the address if you can. Make sure you put enough postage on it and always include the postcode or zip code. It’s also a good idea to add the recipient’s phone number, especially for packages with merchandise, as it can help prevent delays.
When it comes to international mail, you should use the address format for that specific country, as they can be different. For example, some countries use different postal code formats, and the house number might go before the street name instead of after. For the best results, the easiest thing to do is just ask the person you’re sending it to for the correct address format.
Next up is packaging. You need to package your items securely to make sure they don’t get damaged on the way. Use strong packing materials, both inside and out, to protect your package from getting crushed or torn. To seal the package well, you should use strong packing tape that’s about 2 inches wide—just so you know, regular household tape isn’t strong enough for this. Tape the top and bottom of the box in an ‘H’ pattern to make it really secure. You should always use cardboard boxes for shipping, and if you’re sending something heavy, use a heavy-duty box or even put one box inside another for extra strength.
So, how long will it take? In our experience, standard registered mail usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to arrive, though it can sometimes take longer for remote areas. EMS (Express Mail Service) is faster, usually taking about 1 to 3 weeks. Keep in mind that delivery time really depends on the local mail service and how fast things move through customs. We don’t have any control over the actual shipping, but you can use our “Transport Statistics” tool to get a better idea of the estimated delivery time.
If an item you sent gets lost or damaged, you might be able to get compensation. Whether you can get it depends on the shipping service you chose and what happened. To make a claim, you’ll need to fill out a form you can get at any post office counter. You absolutely need to keep your receipt or Certificate of Posting, as you’ll need it to file the claim. You can usually start a claim about a month after the item was supposed to arrive.
When you send a package internationally, you have to fill out a customs form. A lot of people mark their packages as “gifts” or “samples” to try and avoid customs fees. If you’re expecting a package from another country, you’ll get a notice if you have to pay a customs fee. If you do, just go to your local post office to pay the fee and pick up your package with your ID. If you’re not sure if you’ll have to pay a tax, check your country’s official Customs department website.
Finally, and this is very important, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re not sending anything that’s prohibited or restricted. If you send something you’re not supposed to, the post office can do whatever they see fit with it, which could mean they throw the whole package away. If you’re not sure about an item, it’s always best to check with your shipping company first.
For legal or safety reasons, there are some things you just can’t mail. Here’s a general list of things that are not allowed:
- Illegal drugs or psychoactive substances
- Weapons, explosives, flammable stuff, radioactive materials, and other dangerous goods
- Anything with offensive writing or pictures
- Anything that’s illegal in the country you’re sending it to
- Live animals (though there are exceptions for things like bees or leeches sent to official institutions)
- Alcohol that is more than 70% (140 proof) or is in bottles that aren’t sealed properly
- Aerosol cans of any kind
- Cash, coins, checks, precious metals (like gold or silver), gems, jewelry, or other valuables in the regular mail
