How to Mail a Package Home from Thailand (Customs Forms and Prohibited Items)

Mailing a package from Thailand to your home country is a fairly straightforward process, but it's important to understand the required forms, the potential costs, and what items you can or cannot send. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

1. Choose a Mailing Service

There are several postal services and courier companies available in Thailand. The most common options are:

• Thailand Post: The national postal service of Thailand offers various mailing options, including EMS (Express Mail Service), Airmail, and Surface Mail.

• Private Courier Services: Companies like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT offer faster and more reliable international shipping, though they can be more expensive.

You’ll find post offices all over Thailand, and most major cities (like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket) will have at least one branch that can handle international shipments.

2. Prepare Your Package

Before heading to the post office, here are a few tips to ensure that your package is prepared correctly:

• Packaging: Make sure your items are securely packed to avoid damage during transport. Use a sturdy box or envelope, and cushion fragile items with bubble wrap or packing peanuts.

• Weighing the Package: If you’re using Thailand Post, they will usually weigh and measure the package at the post office. For private couriers, you can get an estimate of shipping costs online before you go.

3. Fill Out the Customs Declaration Forms

When mailing a package internationally, you’ll need to fill out a customs declaration form. This form provides information about the contents of your package, its value, and whether it's a gift, personal item, or commercial product.

• Customs Declaration Form (CN22 or CN23): These are the most common forms used for international mail. You will need to specify the contents of your package and their value.

• Required Information: You'll need to declare the value of the items, quantity, and description. Be truthful here, as customs may inspect your package and apply duties or taxes based on the information you provide.

• Declaration for Gifts: If you’re sending a gift, indicate that on the form and mark its value. Be aware that some countries may allow low-value gifts to pass through without customs charges, but the value limit varies by country.

Most post offices will provide you with these forms when you go to mail the package. If you're using a courier service, their representative will assist you with the paperwork.

4. Pay for the Shipping

The cost of shipping a package from Thailand will depend on several factors:

• Destination Country: Shipping costs vary based on where you're sending the package.

• Package Weight: Heavier packages will naturally cost more to send.

• Service Type: Express services (like EMS) are faster but tend to be more expensive than standard or surface mail.

At the post office or courier service, you will pay for the shipping based on the weight and size of your package. You can also choose add-ons like tracking or insurance (recommended for valuable items).

5. Prohibited Items: What You Can’t Ship

It’s essential to know which items are prohibited or restricted from being shipped internationally from Thailand. Some of the most common prohibited items include:

• Narcotics or illegal drugs

• Weapons and firearms

• Counterfeit goods (fake designer items, etc.)

• Pornographic material

• Items that could be harmful to health (e.g., expired food or medicines)

• Flammable substances (e.g., lighter fluid or aerosols)

• Live animals (unless you have special permits)

• Cultural heritage items (e.g., antiques or items of national importance)

Each destination country may also have its own set of restrictions, so check with the post office or courier service to ensure you are not sending any prohibited items. You can usually find this information on the customs website of the country you are mailing to.

6. Track Your Package

After you’ve sent your package, most services, including Thailand Post’s EMS, offer a tracking number that allows you to follow your package’s journey. This can be especially useful if you're mailing valuable or time-sensitive items.

• Thailand Post Tracking: Use the tracking number provided on your receipt to check the status of your package through the Thailand Post website.

• Courier Tracking: For services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS, you can use their tracking websites or apps to monitor your package in real-time.

7. Customs Duties and Taxes

Depending on the contents and value of the package, the recipient may be subject to customs duties or taxes upon receiving the package. Customs regulations vary by country, so check the rules for the destination country before sending valuable items. Common items subject to duties include electronics, clothing, and luxury goods.

• Declared Value: The declared value on the customs form will influence the customs duties and taxes that may apply.

• Gift Allowance: Some countries allow a gift allowance where gifts valued under a certain amount (e.g., $100) can be sent without incurring duties or taxes.

8. Delivery Time

The delivery time for your package depends on the service you choose:

• EMS (Express Mail Service): Typically takes 3-7 days for most international destinations.

• Airmail: Usually takes 7-21 days depending on the country.

• Surface Mail: Takes longer, typically around 1-3 months, and is usually the least expensive option.

Private couriers like DHL and FedEx tend to be faster, often delivering packages in 3-5 days depending on the country.

9. Final Tips

• Check the Restrictions: Before mailing, verify the customs regulations for your destination country, as some items may require special permits or documentation.

• Use a Reliable Service: If you're sending high-value or important items, consider using a trusted courier service for insurance and reliable tracking.

• Keep Your Receipt: Always keep the receipt and tracking number for future reference.

Summary

• Choose Your Service: Thailand Post (EMS, Airmail, Surface Mail) or private couriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS.

• Fill Out Customs Forms: Declare the contents, value, and type of package (gift, personal items, etc.).

• Shipping Cost: Based on weight, destination, and service type.

• Prohibited Items: Check the restrictions for both Thailand and the destination country.

• Tracking: Get a tracking number to monitor your package's journey.