subject: Don't get caught out trying to send prohibited items with a courier [print this page] Don't get caught out trying to send prohibited items with a courier
The purpose of a convenient parcel delivery service is to ensure that an individual can get a package from the UK to destinations all over the world with the least amount of fuss as possible. Most people will agree that there are enough worries in everyday life as it is. And while you won't find a simpler way to get a parcel to Australia, New Zealand South Africa or America, it pays to remember that there are certain rules that have to be adhered to.
For example, if your parcel is destined to end up outside of the European Union then in most situations you will have to attach a CN22 customs sticker to the front of the package. The purpose of this is to ensure that customs officials can find out what is inside your parcel with a swift glance, along with other important information. If you are required to fix a CN22 label to your package then there is no alternative - the rules must be followed if you want to ensure that the parcel you have gone to the trouble of sending will arrive at its destination on time and in the very best condition.
It is also very important to remember that you cannot simply send what you like with a parcel courier. The industry's leading online parcel delivery businesses will go out of their way to accommodate customers and ensure that everything possible is done to make the process smooth and straightforward, but there are certain goods that cannot be transported, either by law, for security reasons, or because of health and safety considerations. If you are not used to sending goods to other countries around the world then you would do well to check that the items you are looking to send with a courier company do not fall into the prohibited items list.
Items such as firearms, explosives and chemical substances cannot be sent with parcel couriers for good reasons, but there are other things on prohibited items lists that you might not expect to find, such as cash and passports. Every individual courier will be able to inform you of what is allowed and what's forbidden, so make sure you ask if you are unsure.
The next time you are sending a package to the other side of the world, remember that it pays to watch out for any prohibited items, and also ensure you find a UK mail company offering affordable postage rates.
