To send parcels from the UK to Spain is rather simple when you know the steps involved. If you are shipping a personal gift, business goods, or larger packages, packing properly and adhering to shipping regulations will give you assurances that your parcel will reach its destination safely and on time.
This guide takes you through the most important steps, from selecting a courier service to customs regulations.
Choosing a Courier Service.
The first step in sending a parcel to Spain is to choose a reliable courier. There are many logistics companies which offer their services worldwide, but each of them has their own delivery times, prices, and services.
The delivery time for standard shipping is usually between 3-7 business days, but the package can be delivered by express courier in only 1-2 days. Be sure to look for more than one courier to pick the most suitable according to your needs and budget. Choosing a courier that offers tracking services is favorable as it will allow you to keep track of your parcel.
Preparing Your Parcel for Shipping.
Sturdy packaging plays a significant role in reducing the risk of breakage during the transportation phase. Ensure that the item fits precisely in the box/package or use suitable cushioning material, such as bubble wrap or foam to help minimize movement. A package should have the flap sealed and the tape applied both around the sides and corners to reinforce the assembly before proceeding with labeling. Parcel your item and mark it with your and the receiver’s contact information, full names, and addresses. Proper packaging will help to reduce the likelihood of damage and ensure your delivery reaches its destination.
Customs Documentation and Fees.
In light of the fact that the UK has left the EU, parcels that are delivered from the UK to Spain must have the necessary shipping documentation. In general, you may be required to fill in a declaration form that contains information pertaining to the type, value, and the intended use of the parcel (e.g. “gift” or “merchandise”). Besides this, the customer might be requested to levy VAT and customs taxes if the parcel contains a value greater than €150. It is prudent to keep the customer aware of any potential import charges in case of a surprise on delivery.
Sending or receiving multiple parcels to Spain may become repetitive, so you might want to employ a UK to Spain parcel forwarding service. These services are optimal for organizations that send multiple or bulk shipments, as they cover every step of the process and make customs compliance and documentation much easier and faster.
Calculating Shipping Costs.
Shipping expenses are based on factors such as package weight, size, and destination. Most couriers provide online calculators that compute the costs according to the given data. Besides the basic shipping cost, the recipient will also be required to pay customs duty and VAT. For high-value parcels, insurance may be an additional option to choose from, as many carriers offer it as an extra service.
Tracking and Delivery.
Most of the time couriers provide a tracking number which enables you to keep a eye on your parcel as it travels to its destination. Tracking not only helps you and the recipient to know when the package is likely to come but also to deal with possible snags. Make sure you have shared the tracking information with the recipient to keep them up to date on the parcel’s status.
Managing Potential Delays.
Shipping from the UK to Spain is usually a smooth process, however there can sometimes be delays. Customs clearance of valuable items especially can be a major cause of increased delivery times. Public holidays both in one of the countries and during the peak season such as the Christmas season will influence the transit times. You can practically eliminate the likelihood of delays by using express services if you’re dispatching goods with time deadlines.
Restricted and Prohibited Items.
Spain bars the importation of certain goods such as fresh foods, dangerous materials, and specific animal products.
Be sure to check with your courier company before sending your items if your items are banned or not to avoid any complications.
Usually every courier displays a banned/restricted items list on their website. It’s important to check this to avoid any breaches of international shipping rules.
Final Tips for a Smooth Shipping Experience.
Sending parcels can occasionally become a problem for people transferring their consignments from the UK to Spain if the procedures are not followed. Opting for a dependable courier, secure packaging, and using appropriate labeling are the main factors that can contribute towards a smooth parcel delivery. Don’t forget to be careful with the customs documentation and import fees in order to help the recipient avoid unwanted procedures or costs.
