Sending Packages To Belarus: What You Need To Know

Sending a package to Belarus can be a complex process due to the country's unique rules, costs, regulations, and recent sanctions. It's important to be aware of prohibited and restricted items, which include narcotics, firearms, explosives, counterfeit products, explicit adult content, and hazardous materials. Belarus also has specific customs procedures and import duties that can impact the cost and timing of your shipment. To ensure a smooth and efficient shipping experience, it's recommended to use a reputable courier service with experience in shipping to Belarus, such as TSM, which offers competitive rates, fast transit times, and expertise in customs regulations.

Shipping rates to Belarus

When shipping to Belarus, it's important to consider the various factors that can influence the cost. These include the weight and dimensions of the package, the courier service chosen, and any additional services required. Generally, heavier and larger packages tend to be more expensive to ship.

Different courier services offer a range of shipping rates and delivery times. For example, UPS offers Worldwide Express, Worldwide Express Saver, and Worldwide Expedited services, with delivery times ranging from 2-5 days, 4-8 days, and 4-8 days, respectively. USPS provides First-Class Package International Service with an estimated delivery time of 10-15 days. FedEx offers International Priority® Express, delivering packages by midday in 1-3 business days to selected destinations worldwide.

It's worth noting that express delivery services like DHL, UPS, and TNT operate in Belarus but may have limited services. The cost of shipping can also be affected by the inclusion of supplementary services, such as insurance coverage and parcel tracking. To obtain a precise cost estimation, it is recommended to visit the official websites of courier providers and input comprehensive package information, including origin, destination, weight, dimensions, and desired supplementary services.

Additionally, when shipping to Belarus, it is important to be aware of the country's import regulations and prohibited items. Belarus has specific requirements for customs documentation, and certain goods may be subject to additional taxes and duties upon arrival.

Documents required for shipping to Belarus

When shipping a parcel to Belarus, you will need to provide several important documents to ensure a smooth and compliant process. Here is a detailed list of the necessary documentation:

Commercial Invoice:

This document outlines the contents, quantities, values, charges, and other relevant data pertaining to the shipment. It is crucial for customs clearance and duties assessment. Be sure to include multiple copies, both inside and attached to the parcel.

Contract of Sale:

This document validates the relationship between the sender and receiver and serves as evidence of the legitimacy of the transaction. Include at least two copies of the contract to support the customs clearance process.

Certificate of Origin (CO):

The Certificate of Origin specifies the country where the goods were manufactured or produced. Ensure that it complies with Belarusian import regulations, and obtain it from an authorized body.

Single Administrative Document (SAD):

The SAD is a comprehensive document that includes all the key transport, item, value, and duty details required for customs clearance. It is mandatory for all commercial shipments to Belarus exceeding 1,000 EUR in value. Engaging a qualified Belarus import broker is advisable to ensure the proper issuance of this document.

By providing these four types of documents accurately and in their entirety, you will be able to demonstrate the legitimacy of the shipped contents to the customs authorities in Belarus. This will facilitate the smooth clearance and entry of your goods into the country, helping to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

Belarus customs fees and import tax

When sending a package to Belarus, it's important to be aware of the country's customs regulations and fees. Here is some information about customs fees and import tax in Belarus:

Customs Declarations

All travellers entering or leaving Belarus must complete a customs and goods declaration form, which is typically available on the plane or at the airport. This form is used to declare the value and nature of the goods being brought into the country.

Duty-Free Limits

Belarus has specific duty-free limits for different means of transportation. As of April 1, 2024, for travellers arriving by air, the duty-free limits are goods worth up to €10,000 and weighing no more than 50 kg. For those travelling by non-air means or on foot, the limits are €500 for the value and 25 kg for the weight of the goods.

Customs Duties and Import Tax

Any items exceeding the duty-free limits are subject to customs duties and import tax. The amount of tax and duty payable depends on the type of goods and their value. For postal items exceeding the duty-free limits, the recipient will incur customs duties and taxes at the greater of either 15% of the value of the goods or at least €2 per 1 kg of the total weight of the item.

Additionally, certain types of goods may be subject to specific import customs duties, such as agricultural products and luxury goods. Belarus also has restrictions on the import of certain items, including alcoholic beverages, weapons, narcotics, and radioactive materials.

Customs Value Calculation

The customs value of a package is determined by the transaction value, which is the price paid or payable for the goods when sold for export to Belarus. This value includes costs such as packing, transportation, insurance, and any applicable royalties or licensing fees.

It's important to note that the information provided here may not be exhaustive, and it is recommended to consult official sources and local regulations for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding customs fees and import tax in Belarus.

Belarus shipping restrictions and prohibited items

When shipping to Belarus, it's crucial to be aware of the country's intricate regulations governing prohibited and restricted items. Non-compliance can lead to serious complications, including legal consequences.

Prohibited Items

The following goods are prohibited from being carried by travellers to Belarus:

• Radioactive and explosive substances
• Animals and plants without the appropriate health and veterinary certificates

Other prohibited items include:

• Narcotics
• Firearms
• Explosives
• Counterfeit products
• Explicit adult content
• Hazardous materials, such as toxic substances
• "Luxury goods" without a license and an Internal Transaction Number (ITN)
• Alcohol products, including ethyl alcohol and alcoholic beverages
• All weapons, arms, ammunition, and parts and accessories
• Articles of cultural value
• Currencies of Belarus and the Russian Federation
• Metalized yarn made with or of gold thread; ornamental trimming or woven fabric made with or of gold thread
• Opium and other substances containing narcotics
• Pathogenic or potentially pathogenic organisms
• Photographic and cinematographic films, undeveloped photographic plates, and photographic paper
• Precious stones in any form and condition; natural diamonds, except for jewellery
• Printed books, newspapers, pictures, and other products of the printing industry; manuscripts, typescripts, and plans containing information that may be harmful to the political and economic interests of the country and to the health and morality of its citizens
• Radioactive materials
• Substances harmful to the ozone layer
• Tobacco and tobacco products, including products containing tobacco or nicotine and those intended for inhalation by heating or other methods (without burning) and smoking mixtures of all kinds
• Unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones and copters, except aircraft used for entertainment without any recording equipment (including photo and video)
• Coins, bank notes, currency notes (paper money); securities of any kind payable to bearer; traveller’s checks, platinum, gold, and silver (manufactured or not); precious stones, jewellery, and other valuable articles are admitted only in insured Priority Mail International parcels

Restricted Items

The following items are considered restricted and may require special permits or documents:

• Alcohol
• Tobacco
• Plants
• Animal-derived products
• Drugs
• Antiques
• Precious metals
• Specific electronic devices

Belarus shipping tips and information

Shipping to Belarus requires careful attention to several key considerations. Familiarise yourself with the following to ensure a smooth and trouble-free experience:

• Payment methods: Get acquainted with popular payment methods in Belarus, such as credit cards and digital wallets, to ensure smooth financial transactions with your customers.
• Public holidays: Be mindful of Belarusian public holidays and plan your shipments accordingly to avoid potential delays.
• Courier services: Explore local courier services in Belarus and compare their reliability and cost-effectiveness to find the best fit for your shipping needs.
• Customs declarations and packaging: Ensure that your customs paperwork is meticulous and that your package content information is clear and secure. This will help expedite the customs clearance process and avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
• Shipping insurance: Consider shipping insurance, especially for valuable items, to provide added protection against potential loss or damage during transit.
• Import duties and taxes: Understand the import duties and taxes associated with your shipments to help with budget planning and compliance.
• Shipping options: Explore diverse shipping options, from standard to expedited services, and choose the one that aligns with your budget and delivery timelines.
• Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with your courier, customers, and recipients to enhance the overall shipping experience.
• Paperwork: Ensure that all necessary customs forms and invoices are included with your shipment to ensure compliance with Belarusian regulations.

Additionally, when shipping to Belarus, it's important to be aware of the country's restricted and prohibited items. Prohibited items include narcotics, firearms, explosives, counterfeit products, explicit adult content, and hazardous materials. On the other hand, restricted items such as alcohol, tobacco, plants, animal-derived products, drugs, antiques, precious metals, and specific electronic devices may require special permits or documentation.

Frequently asked questions