Mailing Packages To Belize: A Step-By-Step Guide

Sending a package to Belize can be done through various postal services, including FedEx, UPS, and DHL Worldwide Express, or the national postal service of your country. It's important to be aware of the specific requirements and restrictions for mailing to Belize, such as customs forms and size and weight limitations. The cost of postage will depend on the weight and dimensions of your package, and it's recommended to use a kitchen food scale to measure weight accurately.

Addressing your package

When addressing your package to Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it reaches its destination without delay. Here are the key points to follow:

Firstly, ensure you include the correct address format. For Belize, this means including the city or town and district, the country name, and the words "Central America". It is important to write out "Central America" in full to avoid your mail ending up in California, USA. An example of a correctly formatted address would be: [Recipient Name], [Street Address], [City or Town], [District], Belize, Central America.

The return address typically goes in the upper left corner of the package and is optional. The recipient's address should be written clearly in the centre of the package. If you are sending a letter, the stamps go in the upper right corner, ideally all in one row, but the post office will accept your letter even if the stamps go onto a second or third line.

When addressing packages to Belize, it is also important to consider the weight and dimensions of your package. Packages that exceed certain size and weight limits may be subject to additional postage fees. For example, the maximum weight for a standard letter is 3.5 ounces, so if you are sending a package that exceeds this weight, you will need to use a larger envelope or box.

Additionally, certain items are prohibited or restricted from being sent to Belize. These include arms and ammunition, certain valuable articles such as coins, platinum, gold, silver, and jewellery, and some substances such as saccharine. Be sure to check the most up-to-date information from your chosen carrier before sending your package to avoid any issues.

Finally, it is worth noting that mail service in Belize is generally good, especially in major cities and towns. However, service to and from remote villages can be slower, sometimes taking several weeks for delivery.

Weighing and measuring your package

To mail a package to Belize, you'll need to correctly weigh and measure your package to ensure you apply the right amount of postage and that your package is accepted by your chosen delivery service.

First, you'll need a scale to weigh your package. A kitchen food scale is a good option for this. If you don't have one, you can purchase an inexpensive one from Amazon or Walmart. Round the weight of your package up to the nearest ounce. For example, if your package weighs 1.21 ounces, you will need postage for 2 ounces.

Next, you'll need to measure the dimensions of your package. The maximum length for packages sent to Belize is 42 inches, and the maximum length and girth combined is 79 inches. If you are using FedEx, the maximum dimensions are slightly different: 108 inches in length, or 130 inches in length and girth combined.

If you are sending your package via USPS, you will need to pay attention to the difference between letters, large envelopes (or 'flats'), and packages. Letters must be no bigger than 11.5" x 6+⅛". Large envelopes must be a minimum of 6-1/8" by 11-1/2", with a maximum size of 12" by 15", and a maximum thickness of 3/4". Packages have a maximum weight of 70 lbs, with a weight limit of 44 lbs for airmail packages.

If you are using FedEx, the weight limit is 150 lbs. If you are using your own packaging, dimensional weight may apply.

Once you have weighed and measured your package, you can calculate the correct postage to apply. For USPS, the number of stamps you'll need depends on the size and weight of your package. You can buy stamps at your local USPS post office, online, or at Walmart and Amazon.

Filling out customs forms

When shipping items from the US to Belize, you must fill out customs forms. The form you need depends on the USPS mail service you use and the total value of what you send. Packages mailed to Belize require expensive postage and must have customs forms attached.

If you are sending correspondence and business papers, you will need to fill out PS Form 2976, Customs - CN 22 (Old C 1) and Sender's Declaration (green label). Be sure to endorse the item clearly next to the mailing label as "BUSINESS PAPERS".

If you are sending merchandise samples without commercial value, you will need to fill out PS Form 2976, Customs - CN 22 (Old C 1) and Sender's Declaration (green label).

If you are sending merchandise and all articles subject to customs duty, you will need to fill out PS Form 2976-A, Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note CP 72, inside a PS Form 2976-E, Customs Declaration Envelope CP 91.

You can fill out a customs form online or at your local Post Office branch. If you fill out the form online, you can use the Click-N-Ship service to pay for postage and print an international shipping label and a customs form. If you fill out the form at the Post Office, you will need to fill out form PS 2976-R and present your package at the counter to have the clerk create your label.

It is important to note that packages sent to countries that follow European Union (EU) customs rules require more detailed content descriptions on the customs forms. If you don't provide enough detail, your package may be rejected, returned, or even destroyed by customs officials in the receiving country. For each item in your package, you must provide a specific description. For example, instead of just writing "electronics", you need to specify the type of electronics, such as "computer", "mobile phone", or "television". These detailed descriptions will help determine the "HS (Harmonized System) Tariff Code" or "HS Code", which is a 6-14 digit number used for customs, including calculating applicable duties and taxes.

Choosing a courier service

When choosing a courier service to mail a package to Belize, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to decide whether you require a standard or expedited service. Standard delivery options include the United States Postal Service (USPS), which offers affordable rates for sending letters and postcards to Belize. However, for packages, you may need to explore other options as USPS rates can be expensive.

If speed is a priority, FedEx, UPS, or DHL Worldwide Express offer faster, more time-definite services, although they are pricier. These companies have offices in Belize City and agents elsewhere in the country, ensuring a reliable delivery network. FedEx, for example, guarantees delivery within 1 to 3 business days to most locations with its International Priority® service.

Another factor to consider is the weight and dimensions of your package. Different courier services have varying weight and size limits, so it is essential to check these before selecting a service. For instance, FedEx allows packages of up to 68 kg (150 lbs) with unlimited weight for multiple-piece shipments to the same destination.

Additionally, it is worth considering the origin of your shipment. If you are sending a package from the United States, USPS offers a convenient option with its Global Forever Stamps, which cost $1.55 each for letters to Belize. However, if you are shipping from elsewhere, you may need to compare international rates from different courier services to find the most cost-effective option.

Lastly, it is important to be mindful of any customs requirements when choosing a courier service. Packages sent to Belize typically require customs forms, so ensure that your chosen courier provides clear instructions and guidance on completing the necessary documentation to avoid any delays or complications.

Buying postage

When it comes to buying postage for a package to Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to note that packages sent to Belize tend to require expensive postage and must have customs forms attached.

If you're looking for a fast and reliable service, FedEx offers international shipping to over 220 destinations worldwide, including Belize. They provide a range of delivery options, including priority and economy services, with a delivery time of 1 to 3 business days for most locations. However, keep in mind that using private courier services like FedEx can be more costly than regular mail services.

For a more economical option, you can use the Belize Postal Service, which offers good mail service within the country, except to and from remote villages. The main post office is located in Belize City, and there are smaller post offices in all towns and some villages. To send a letter from the USA to Belize, you can use Global Forever Stamps, which cost $1.55 each, or regular domestic forever stamps that add up to $1.55. Extra postage is required for letters weighing more than 1 ounce.

When addressing your package, make sure to include the city or town, district, country name, and "Central America" to ensure your mail reaches Belize and not California, USA.

You can purchase postage stamps at your local USPS post office, online at USPS.com, or from retailers like Walmart and Amazon. However, keep in mind that stamps from Amazon tend to be more expensive than buying them directly from the USPS.

Frequently asked questions