International Courier Services from Pakistan: Global Shipping, Customs & Tariffs
Want to send documents, samples or goods abroad from Pakistan? Learn about the types of courier, the customs papers you may need, items to avoid and extra charges.
1Ways to Send a Parcel Abroad
There are three main ways to send a parcel abroad. Pick one based on how fast it needs to arrive, its value and your budget:
International Express Couriers
International couriers such as DHL, FedEx and UPS are often used for urgent documents and valuable goods. Ask about delivery times and prices.
Local Couriers That Send Abroad
Some Pakistani couriers also send parcels abroad through partners. Ask your local courier if it offers this for your country.
Pakistan Post EMS
Pakistan Post’s Express Mail Service (EMS) sends parcels abroad. The post office in the other country delivers them.
2Customs Papers You May Need
Correct papers help avoid customs delays. Ask your courier what it needs. Usually this includes:
Invoice
An invoice that clearly describes each item (for example “cotton women’s kurta”, not just “gift”), where it was made, how many there are and what it is worth. Ask how many signed copies to include.
HS Codes
Businesses may need to add an HS code for each product. Customs uses these codes to work out import tax.
Post Office Forms: CN22 and CN23
Parcels sent by post need a customs form. Small, low-value items often use a CN22 form, and others use a CN23. Ask at the post office which one you need.
3Items to Avoid
Airlines and customs have strict rules. Items often refused or limited include:
- Perfume, body sprays and alcohol-based cosmetics
- Spray cans and flammable hand sanitiser
- Loose lithium batteries and power banks
- Cash, gold and jewellery
- Homemade snacks and loose spices
- Fake branded goods
4Extra Charges on International Parcels
The final bill can be higher than the first quote. Ask about these charges:
- Fuel charge: Many couriers add a charge that goes up and down with fuel prices.
- Remote area charge: Some couriers charge more to deliver to far-off areas abroad.
- Heavy or large parcels: Very heavy or large parcels may cost extra to handle.
- Busy season charge: Some couriers add a charge at their busiest times of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What papers do I need to send a parcel abroad?
Usually an airway bill, an invoice describing what is inside and its value, and a customs form. Businesses may need extra papers, such as a tax number. Ask your courier for its full list.
Q.Can I send food, mangoes or spices abroad?
Food rules differ by country, and many countries limit fresh fruit and homemade food. Ask your courier and check the rules of the country you are sending to.
Q.What do DDU and DDP mean?
With DDU, the receiver pays import tax and fees before getting the parcel. With DDP, the sender pays them when booking. Ask your courier which options it offers.
Q.Why is there a fuel charge on international parcels?
Fuel prices go up and down, so many international couriers add a fuel charge on top of the basic price. Ask for the full price before you book.