Customs declaration on post overseas

[kriskwery]

As someone who sells on eBay from time to time, I stand in awe of the PO clerk who enquires as to the contents of my packages sent abroad. Where can I discover what I can and can't send abroad? It also worries me enormously having to describe an item fully and visually on the little customs form - surely this is an invitation to theft of desirable items??

[Kev_UK]

You can ask for a leaflet at the post office (they may have them on display) or look on the royal mail website. My wife is Canadian and sends parcals to her grandchildren.. usualy on the label she write "Childs clothes, toys". I've ordered parts for my american cars off the internet and have been charged 17.5% VAT and 5% import duty on the total cost (parts PLUS postage costs!!!). I have a contact in USA that sends me parts and marks them as "GIFT" that way I dont get stung again (the taxes have already been paid in usa). If my memory serves me right, you cannot get registered airmail to USA. I agree too much detail can invite theft.

[Pinotage]

What you can send is governed by two things. 1) What the UK Post Office will accept for delivery. 2) What the receiving country will accept.

The banned items are clearly listed on the Post Office/Parcel Force website, as are the requirements for customs forms.

For list of countries and their rules see http://www.parcelforce.com/portal/pw/content1?mediaId=260002 0&catId=4800019

For Post Office acceptances see http://www.parcelforce.com/portal/pw/content1?catId=4800019& mediaId=2600031&keyname=neo_prohi