Sending a Package Overseas
Sending a package overseas involves a few important steps to ensure safe delivery and compliance with international shipping regulations.
Addressing the Package
Addressing Tips
- Clearly write the recipient’s name and address in capital letters if handwritten. The address must be legible and accurate. Always include your return address. If possible, use a printed or typed address rather than handwritten.
- Ensure the postage is affixed, and include the recipient’s postcode or ZIP code. Including the recipient’s phone number can also help prevent delays, especially for parcels containing merchandise.
- Leave space for a barcoded label (90mm x 70mm) if applicable.
Addressing Formats by Country
Each country has its own preferred addressing format. For example, some use numerical or alphanumeric codes, while others place house numbers before or after the street name. To ensure accuracy, it’s best to confirm the correct format with the recipient.
Packaging and Wrapping
Proper packaging is essential to ensure your items arrive safely. Use strong materials for both internal and external packaging to prevent damage during transit.
Packaging Tips
- Seal your package with reinforced carton tape (approximately 50mm wide) applied in an “H” shape on both the top and bottom.
- Ordinary household tape may not provide adequate strength.
- Use a sturdy carton box, especially for heavier parcels. Consider double boxing (placing one box inside another) for added protection.
Compensation for Lost or Damaged Items
If your item is lost or damaged, you may be eligible for compensation, depending on the service used and the circumstances. Guidelines are provided by the Universal Postal Union (UPU), which all member countries must follow.
To file a claim, keep your Certificate of Posting or receipt, as well as any other relevant documents. Claims can usually be filed one month after the incident. To start, you’ll need to complete and sign a Claim Form.
Shipping or Delivery Time
Tracking availability depends on whether the carrier supports it. Trackingpkgs does not control shipping or delivery times, but based on our experience:
- Postal registered parcels typically arrive within 2 to 4 weeks, though remote areas may take longer.
- EMS mail usually arrives in 1 to 3 weeks.
- Delivery times are influenced by postal services and customs regulations in the destination country.
You can use Trackingpkgs’ Transport Statistics feature to estimate delivery time.
Tracking Coverage
Trackingpkgs supports over 170 carriers and express couriers worldwide. To see a full list of trackable carriers, click here.
Restricted Goods
Make sure your package does not contain any prohibited or restricted items. If you send restricted goods without following the terms and conditions, the carrier may dispose of or handle the package as they see fit. If you’re unsure whether your item is restricted, verify with your shipping agency.
Customs Declaration
When sending a package internationally, you must complete a CN 22 customs declaration form. Some users may mark their items as “gifts” or “samples” to avoid customs fees, but be sure to check with your shipping agency for specific requirements.
Tariff and Customs Duty
If a parcel you receive requires customs duty, you’ll receive a notification. To settle the fee and retrieve your package:
- Contact the post office or courier listed on the notice.
- Visit the post office with your identification to pay the fee.
For questions about whether customs duties apply, refer to your country’s customs website.
Size and Weight Restrictions
Before shipping, check with your shipping agency to ensure your parcel meets UPU regulations for size and weight. This will ensure reliable delivery.
Common shipping methods for Trackingpkgs users:
- Registered mail: for parcels weighing less than 2 kg.
- Parcel mail: for parcels over 2 kg.
- EMS and other express services.
Prohibited Goods
Certain items cannot be shipped due to legal, health, or safety reasons. If you’re unsure about sending an item, check with your shipping agency to avoid customs issues or returns.
Prohibited items include:
- Drugs or mind-altering substances.
- Weapons, explosives, flammable materials, radioactive substances, or other dangerous items.
- Items with inappropriate images or inscriptions.
- Items prohibited in the destination country.
- Live animals (except bees, leeches, and silkworms sent to recognized institutions).
- Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol content.
- Unsealed alcoholic beverages.
- Aerosols.
- Coins, banknotes, checks, precious metals, and other valuable items (these can only be sent through registered mail).