Mailing A Parcel: Austria To Ghana Guide

If you're looking to mail a parcel from Austria to Ghana, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, you'll need to be aware of the restrictions and prohibitions for both countries. For instance, certain books and printed matter prohibited by Austrian courts, foreign lottery tickets, and live plants and animals are among the items that cannot be sent from Austria. Meanwhile, Ghana prohibits the import of seeds, knives, stamps, and certain soaps. You will also need to fill out the necessary customs paperwork and potentially pay customs duties for your shipment. It is also important to ensure that your parcel is properly packaged and labelled, with the correct and complete recipient information, to avoid any delivery issues.

Prohibited items

When sending a parcel from Austria to Ghana, it is important to be aware of prohibited and restricted items. Prohibited items are forbidden and must not be sent, while restricted items are allowed under certain conditions. These restrictions and prohibitions vary from country to country and can sometimes apply to items that may seem ordinary, so it is crucial to carefully check the criteria.

• Psychotropic substances
• Pornographic materials
• Improperly packaged liquids
• Coins, banknotes, and other valuable articles
• Live animals and improperly processed fish and meat products
• Meat and edible meat offal
• Fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates
• Dairy produce, birds' eggs, and natural honey
• Live trees, other plants, bulbs, roots, cut flowers, and ornamental foliage
• Edible vegetables, roots, and tubers
• Edible fruit and nuts, citrus fruit or melon peel
• Coffee, tea, maté, and spices
• Oil seeds, oleaginous fruits, grains, seeds, industrial or medicinal plants, straw, and fodder
• Vegetable plaiting materials and other vegetable products
• Animal or vegetable fats, oils, and their derivatives
• Prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits, vinegar, tobacco, and manufactured tobacco substitutes
• Preparations of meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates
• Beverages, spirits, and vinegar
• Tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes
• Mineral fuels, mineral oils, bituminous substances, and mineral waxes
• Products of the chemical or allied industries
• Inorganic chemicals and compounds of precious metals, rare-earth metals, radioactive elements, or isotopes
• Pharmaceutical products
• Tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins, dyes, pigments, paints, varnishes, putty, inks, and dental preparations with a plaster base
• Explosives, pyrotechnic products, matches, pyrophoric alloys, and certain combustible preparations
• Photographic or cinematographic products
• Miscellaneous chemical products
• Plastics and rubber
• Pulp of wood or other fibrous cellulose material, waste and scrap paper, paper, and paperboard
• Textiles and textile articles
• Articles of apparel and clothing accessories that are not knitted or crocheted
• Natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metals clad with precious metal, imitation jewellery, and coins
• Base metals and articles of base metal
• Arms and ammunition, and their parts and accessories
• Toys, games, and sports equipment, and their parts and accessories

Additionally, certain books and printed materials are prohibited in Austria if they are banned by court order. Foreign lottery tickets and related publicity materials are also prohibited. Live plants and animals are prohibited from being sent from Austria, and articles made of precious metals (gold, silver, or platinum) must meet Austrian regulations for fineness. Austrian coins and gold coins require permission from the Austrian National Bank.

It is important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and specific restrictions and changes can be enforced at short notice. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the destination country's trade, postal, and customs authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Customs forms and declarations

When mailing a parcel from Austria to Ghana, you will need to complete a customs declaration form. This is because Austria is in the EU, and Ghana is not, so customs forms are required. Customs forms are important as they allow customs officers to find out what is inside your package, check if any customs duty or tax needs to be applied, and decide whether your goods are allowed to enter Ghana.

The following customs forms are required for non-EU countries:

• CN 23 customs declaration
• CP 71 parcel card (three carbon copy)
• Commercial invoice or pro forma invoice in two copies or value declaration on CN 23
• Export declaration and printout of export accompanying document with MRN

You can save time by completing the customs form online in advance. You will need to provide detailed information about the contents of your parcel in English, including a description of the goods, the value and quantity of each item, and the purpose of the shipment (e.g. gift, personal belongings, item sold, etc.).

A 'good' description is specific and concise, indicating exactly what the item is and what it is made from. For example, a good description of a shirt would be "Men's dress shirt, made from 50% cotton and 50% polyester". An insufficient description would simply be "shirt".

Once you have completed the form, print and attach the customs documents to the outside of the package in a clear plastic wallet or envelope marked 'Customs'.

It is also important to be aware of prohibited and restricted items when sending a parcel to Ghana. Prohibited items include:

• Psychotropic substances
• Pornographic materials
• Liquids not packaged properly
• Coins, banknotes, and other valuable articles
• Live animals and improperly processed fish and meat products
• Dairy produce
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco
• Pharmaceutical products
• Explosives
• Plastics
• Textiles
• Electrical equipment

Restricted items include:

• Live animals
• Meat and edible meat offal
• Dairy produce
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco
• Pharmaceutical products
• Explosives
• Plastics
• Textiles
• Electrical equipment

Packaging guidelines

When mailing a parcel from Austria to Ghana, it is important to follow the correct packaging guidelines to ensure your item arrives safely and securely. Here are some detailed instructions to follow:

• Choose the right packaging material: Select a sturdy cardboard box or a padded envelope that is slightly larger than the items you are sending. This will allow for some extra space for cushioning material.
• Prepare the items: Make sure the items fit comfortably inside the box or envelope. If there is any extra space, add cushioning material such as crumpled paper, bubble wrap, or foam to protect your items and prevent them from shifting during transit.
• Determine the dimensions and weight: Before placing your order, know the exact dimensions (length, width, and height) and weight of your package. These factors will affect the postage rate and the suitable shipping service.
• Use quality materials: Only use high-quality packaging materials to minimise the risk of damage or loss during transit. Stationery and hardware stores usually provide suitable options for packaging materials.
• Indicate the value: If you are sending valuable items, you must indicate the insured value on the packaging. This is required for items such as cash, jewellery, precious metals, gems, etc.
• Address and labels: Ensure that the recipient's address is correct and clearly written on the parcel. Include the recipient's email address and mobile or landline number to help with delivery and customs clearance. Attach any necessary customs declaration forms and labels.
• Prohibited and restricted items: Be aware of the prohibited and restricted items that cannot be sent to Ghana. These include live animals, certain food products, liquids not packaged properly, and others. Refer to the Ghana Post Office website or the Universal Postal Union for detailed lists.
• Customs paperwork: Most items sent to Ghana require customs paperwork. Visit the Ghanaian customs website for specific advice and the latest rules.
• Drop-off or collection: Depending on the courier service you choose, you may need to drop off your parcel at a designated location or have it collected from your address.
• Tracking: Opt for a shipping service that offers tracking to monitor the location of your parcel during transit.

Delivery times

When sending a parcel from Austria to Ghana, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure timely delivery. Here are some important factors that can affect delivery times:

Delivery Services:

The choice of delivery service plays a crucial role in determining how long it will take for your parcel to reach Ghana. Different courier companies offer various service options, including standard, economy, and priority delivery. Each service has its own estimated delivery timeframe, which can range from a few days to several weeks. It is important to research the delivery options available from Austria to Ghana and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Customs Clearance:

Customs clearance can significantly impact delivery times when sending parcels internationally. Both the exporting country (Austria) and the importing country (Ghana) have their own customs regulations and procedures. It is important to properly declare the contents of your parcel, fill out the necessary customs forms, and ensure that you are not sending any prohibited or restricted items. Failure to comply with customs requirements may result in delays or even the parcel being returned or confiscated.

Weight and Dimensions:

The weight and dimensions of your parcel can also affect delivery times. Courier companies often have weight and size restrictions for parcels being sent internationally. Heavier or larger parcels may take longer to process and transport, especially if they require special handling or additional security checks. Additionally, the cost of sending your parcel will likely be influenced by its weight and dimensions.

Collection and Drop-off Options:

The method you choose for collecting or dropping off your parcel can also impact delivery times. Some courier companies offer convenient options such as collecting the parcel from your home or business address, while others may require you to drop it off at a designated location, such as a post office or courier depot. The availability and convenience of these options may vary in Austria, so be sure to check with your chosen courier service provider.

Transit Times and Transport Method:

The time it takes for your parcel to reach Ghana will depend on the mode of transportation used and the distance travelled. Courier companies may use a combination of air, road, or sea transport to deliver parcels internationally. The estimated transit time will vary depending on the transport method and the number of connecting stops along the way.

Delivery Location in Ghana:

The final destination of your parcel within Ghana can also affect delivery times. Major cities like Accra may have faster delivery times compared to more remote or rural areas. Courier companies often provide estimated delivery times based on specific regions or postal codes within the country.

Public Holidays and Non-Working Days:

Both Austria and Ghana have public holidays and non-working days that can impact delivery times. It is important to be aware of these days, as courier services may be limited or suspended during these periods, resulting in potential delays.

Tracking Options:

Many courier companies offer parcel tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment. This can provide you with real-time updates on the expected delivery date and help you anticipate any potential delays.

In summary, sending a parcel from Austria to Ghana can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the factors mentioned above. It is important to carefully consider your delivery options, comply with customs regulations, and choose a reputable courier company that can provide reliable and timely service. By planning ahead and choosing the most suitable delivery service, you can ensure that your parcel reaches its destination in Ghana as efficiently as possible.

Courier services

There are several courier services that can help you send a parcel from Austria to Ghana. Here are some options:

• Dwarka Courier Service: This company offers an online parcel booking portal for sending parcels from Austria to Ghana. They provide free pickup and packaging services, proper documentation, secure transit, and an online tracking system. They also have a global presence and offer competitive prices.
• Royal Mail: Royal Mail provides international delivery services, including to Ghana. They offer different options such as International Signed, International Standard, and International Economy, with varying delivery times and weight limits. Make sure to check the prohibited and restricted items list for Ghana before sending your parcel.
• Parcelforce Worldwide: This courier service has experience and expertise in international deliveries, reaching over 99% of the world's population. They offer guidance on restrictions, customs charges, and drop-off options for each country. You can book online, by phone, or in person, and they provide door-to-door collection or drop-off options at depots and Post Office branches.

When choosing a courier service, consider factors such as cost, delivery time, weight and size limits, and the level of customer support provided. Additionally, always remember to review the prohibited and restricted items list for the destination country to avoid any issues during transit.

Frequently asked questions