Sending International Mail with Royal Mail: Insights into Global Delivery Options
Royal Mail offers a range of services to make sending international packages easy and efficient. From customer support to comprehensive online resources, here's everything you need to know to ensure a smooth shipping experience.
Customer Support and Online Resources
Royal Mail provides customer support through various channels, including phone, online chat, email, and local branch visits. Their online resources are extensive, offering shipping cost calculators, customs form templates, tracking services, and comprehensive shipping guides.
Preparing Your Package
For a successful international shipment, preparation is key. Check your package against the rules of the destination country and use strong packaging that keeps your items safe and meets international standards.
Weighing and Measuring Your Package
Accurately weigh and measure your parcel to determine the correct postage and customs form type needed.
Completing a Customs Declaration Form
For all international shipments, a customs form is mandatory. Use the CN22 form if your parcel value is less than £270 and weight is 2kg or less. For larger or more valuable parcels, use the CN23 form. Accurately describe the contents, including material, item use, value, and country of origin.
Choosing Your Service and Paying Postage
Royal Mail offers various international services, including International Standard (no tracking, 6-14 business days), International Tracked (parcel tracking available, 3-7 business days), and International Tracked & Signed (tracked plus signature on delivery). Costs vary depending on destination, weight, size, and service selected.
Attaching Postage and Customs Form
Print and attach the postage label securely and affix the completed customs form CN22 or CN23 clearly on the outside.
Dropping Off or Arranging Collection
Take the parcel to a local Post Office that handles international shipments, or arrange a collection service if available.
Tracking Your Parcel
For tracked services, use the tracking reference provided on your receipt to monitor your parcel’s progress via Royal Mail’s website or third-party trackers like Ship24. Tracking updates include statuses such as “In Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” and “Delivered.”
Allowing for Customs Clearance Delays
Parcels may be subject to customs clearance on arrival, which can impact delivery times. Ensure customs forms are accurate to prevent delays or fines.
Additional Tips
- Double-check the recipient’s address and provide a phone number or email to facilitate delivery.
- Be aware that customs duties or taxes may apply depending on the destination country and parcel contents.
- Delivery times vary by service and destination; tracked services generally offer faster and more reliable delivery.
By following these steps, your international parcel meets Royal Mail’s requirements and has the best chance for timely and secure delivery. Shipping costs depend on weight, dimensions, destination, and service level and can be obtained during postage purchase.
[1] Royal Mail: Tracking Your Parcel - https://www.royalmail.com/track-your-item [2] Royal Mail: Customs Declaration Forms - https://www.royalmail.com/business/international/customs-declaration-forms [3] Royal Mail: Sending Items Overseas - https://www.royalmail.com/help-and-support/sending/sending-items-overseas [4] Royal Mail: International Shipping Costs - https://www.royalmail.com/business/international/prices-and-rates [5] Royal Mail: Delivery Problems - https://www.royalmail.com/help-and-support/delivery/delivery-problems
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