Sending to Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is an intriguing country in central Europe; its capital city Prague is fast becoming a must-visit destination for UK holidaymakers, while other accolades see it ranked as one of the most peaceful countries on the globe.
One of the biggest producers of glass in the world, the Czech Republic manufactures everything from industrial glassware to sparkling beads for the jewellery and craft industries. These, along with car parts and vehicle components, are some of the Czech Republic's biggest exports.
If you find yourself needing to send a parcel to the former land of Bohemia, you may find it helpful to read on, to ensure your package follows the country's customs guidelines.
What can't you send?
As with so many countries, the Czech Republic has restrictions which apply when importing items by mail. Although it has very few total prohibitions, there are a lot of restrictions, particularly around food and items of natural origin. It is worth noting that that many of the restrictions only apply if you are sending items deemed for commercial use.
Meat, fish and natural produce
Many types of meat, fish and seafood may only be admitted conditionally. These restrictions extend to dairy products such as milk, cheese and eggs, as well as various other types of fresh or even frozen food. If you're planning on sending any type of produce, you should be wary as many require documentation. Tomatoes, potatoes, onions and other vegetables, whether cooked or uncooked, are only admitted conditionally. Nuts, seeds, cereals, sugars and grains all come under these regulations as well.
Smaller quantities meant for personal consumption, usually those weighing under 1kg and sent by mail, are admitted conditionally. Whether importing for commercial or non-commercial purposes, a CITES customs form should be submitted if you are sending larger quantities of animal produce. If you are thinking of sending raw meat or other raw animal products, this will not be permitted.
Plants and flora
When it comes to live plants, flowers and foliage, small quantities for personal use do not require permission. This usually amounts to up to 2kg of fresh fruit or vegetables, one bunch of cut flowers, or three pot plants; the same is said of fish and seafood. A package of caviar for example, may be sent in a quantity up to 250g if it is not for commercial use. Usually, items will not require a CITES form if they are for personal use and in smaller quantities.
Any foods sent for commercial purposes - i.e. to be re-sold - must be accompanied by a CITES custom form, whilst plants and vegetables will also require a phytosanitary certificate in addition. This will be issued by the country of origin to confirm that it is free of pests and conforms to the plant health regulations of the importing country.
For specific products it's best to check the full list which can be found here on the Universal Postal Union website.
When you've made certain that the contents of your package meet customs requirements, you should tape up your parcel with strong tape. Write the address clearly on the front of the package with CZECH REPUBLIC in capitals at the end of the address. Once you have booked in your delivery you can leave your parcel in its designated safe spot or drop it at your local depot, knowing it will be safely on its way.
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Sending parcels to the Czech Republic