Shipping a package from the US to Europe seems like a very straightforward process: you package your things and contact a postal service to send them across the border. Yet, without knowing the rules and regulations and working with the right courier, your parcel can get stuck at customs or even get confiscated.
To avoid this situation, you should learn more about prohibited and restricted items that you can’t put into your international parcel. Below, we will explain the difference between the two when using the service by the link https://us.meest.com/services/service/delivery-to-europe, detail what you definitely shouldn’t send abroad, and which ones should come with additional documentation.
Prohibited and Restricted — Main Differences
Some items you might see on the list are prohibited, while others are restricted. It is vital to understand what each word means and how the two differ to avoid issues when sending parcels with Meest-America.
Prohibited items are banned from crossing the border. When they reach the customs, the authorities will not allow them further into the EU, and they might be returned to the sender or confiscated. Restricted ones, on the other hand, might be allowed to cross. Yet, they require special permits or additional documentation for further processing by authorities.
Items Prohibited for Crossing the Border
Every European country has its own lists of prohibited and restricted items, but they are very similar because of EU laws. Most customs do not allow:
- explosives and flammables
- weapons
- perishable foods
- live animals or plants
- plant seeds
- illegal substances
- counterfeit goods
- money
- explicit materials
If you are not sure that your items are allowed to enter the EU, you can reference the Meest-America web page or contact customer support for help. Including prohibited items in the parcel will result in their return or confiscation.
Items Requiring Additional Documentation
Some things are not banned, but you should provide Meest-America with additional permits for the parcel to cross the border. These items include electronics with lithium batteries, medications, supplements, antiques, beauty products, and others. It is best to contact the local customs authorities to ensure you are following the rules when sending such items.
How to Avoid Shipping Issues When Sending From the US to Europe
Although Europe has similar rules and regulations, each country still has its own customs authorities. So, check the rules for your parcel’s destination before packaging your items. When working on the customs form, be honest and specific. State what you have in the box, its value, and purpose. Meest-America offers help when working with you, so contact support to ensure that the parcel complies with import laws.
Ensure Your Package Crosses the Border Safely
Shipping to Europe can get messy the first time, but choosing a good courier service and learning the import rules can make the process smoother. Reach out to Meest-America, look for prohibited and restricted items at your destination, and fill out the customs form correctly. Then, your package arrives without issues or unnecessary fees.
