How to Send a Parcel Abroad from the UK

Updated April 2026 · 6 min read

Sending a parcel overseas does not have to be complicated or expensive. This guide walks you through every step, from packaging and customs forms to choosing the cheapest courier and understanding duties.

Step 1: Packaging Your Parcel

International parcels travel further and get handled more than domestic ones. Proper packaging is essential.

• Use a strong, double-walled cardboard box. Avoid reusing old boxes with damage or previous labels.
• Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap with at least 5cm of cushioning on all sides.
• Fill empty space with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or air pillows so nothing moves when shaken.
• Seal with strong parcel tape along all seams. Do not use masking tape or sellotape.
• Place the shipping label on the largest flat surface. Include a duplicate label inside the box in case the outer one is damaged.

Step 2: Customs Forms & Documentation

Every international parcel leaving the UK requires a customs declaration (CN22 for items under £270, CN23 for higher values). Most couriers generate this electronically when you book, but you need to provide accurate information.

• Item description: Be specific. “Cotton T-shirt” not “clothing”. “Ceramic mug” not “gift”.
• Value: Declare the true sale value. Under-declaring is illegal and can result in seizure.
• HS/tariff code: A 6-digit code classifying your product. You can look this up on the UK Trade Tariff website. Getting this right reduces delays.
• Country of origin: Where the item was manufactured, not where you are sending it from.
• Reason for export: Sale of goods, gift, return, sample, or repair.

Step 3: Prohibited & Restricted Items

Rules vary by country. Some common restrictions:

Always check the specific country’s import rules before sending. Royal Mail and each courier publish destination-specific restrictions.

Step 4: Choosing the Cheapest International Courier

Price varies hugely depending on destination, weight, and speed. Here is a general ranking for a 2kg parcel:

Delivery Times by Destination

Typical delivery times for standard/economy services:

Understanding Customs Duties & Taxes

When your parcel arrives in the destination country, the recipient may need to pay import duties and local taxes (like VAT or GST). This depends on:

• Declared value: Most countries have a duty-free threshold. For example, the USA allows imports under $800 duty-free, while the EU threshold is effectively €0 for VAT (charged from the first euro).
• Product type: Different HS codes attract different duty rates. Electronics are often low; textiles can be high.
• DDP vs DDU: “Delivered Duty Paid” means you pay duties upfront so the recipient gets no surprise charges. “Delivered Duty Unpaid” means the recipient pays on arrival. DDP gives a better customer experience but costs more.

If you are selling products internationally, we strongly recommend offering DDP where possible. Unexpected duty charges are the number one reason customers refuse international deliveries.

Top Tips for International Shipping

1. Always get tracking. International parcels go through more hands and are more likely to go astray.
2. Take photos of the contents and packaging before sealing. This helps with claims.
3. Consider insurance for items over £50. Standard courier cover is usually limited to £20–£50.
4. Post early in the week. Parcels posted on Friday may sit in a depot over the weekend.
5. Use Parcelfire to instantly compare international rates from all major couriers.