Vital Steps To Follow When Sending Parcels Internationally
Sending a parcel to someone here in the UK may seem simple enough
, we pack or wrap our parcel, take it to the post office where it is weighed and labelled up for delivery. Millions of parcels and letters get sent this way every day but sending something internationally can require a few extra measures. With your parcel travelling overseas there is a higher chance that it could be lost or delayed as more people and companies are involved in the process.
So what extra measures should we make, well they can be broken down into two categories, one being that there are some legal requirements and the second being best practice guidelines that many other people have stuck to and found that they have sent parcels with great ease.
When sending parcels outside of the EU you will have to fill out some paperwork before it can be sent legally, this is normally done via the CN22 customs declaration form. A customs declaration form will let the authorities in both your country as well as the receiving countrys to ensure they know what the parcel contains and its value. Sending parcels can sometimes require you to pay customs or tax depending on the contents, in order to prevent any delays or worse, returned parcels you need to make sure that everything on the form is filled out correctly.
With your parcel being handled by many people you may want to ensure it is packed a bit more securely, including plenty of insulation to prevent any knocks or bumps from damaging your contents is important but so is the security of your package in general. If your parcel is wrapped poorly then theres a chance that it could fall apart or open exposing the contents or damaging them. A lot of people are familiar with padded envelopes for smaller items but there are also boxes and mailing bags which should be sealed securely either with parcel tape or any adhesive that is included on the envelope.
You should also make sure to protect the address and any other labels; on larger items you may be able to attach a document wallet to hold not only the address but also any customs information and other shipping documentation such as an invoice.
Sending parcels internationally may seem difficult but many of the principals apply to any parcel delivery even to places in the UK. Make sure you use a reliable delivery company or courier that can meet your expectations and needs.