DHL does not accept or transport the following items due to safety, security, legal, or regulatory reasons:
– Livestock and endangered species
– Human remains
– Explosives and weapons
– Any items that may be deemed as Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
– Counterfeit goods
– Items that may infringe on intellectual property rights
– Alcohol and tobacco (unless in certain circumstances)
– Firearms, ammunition and weapons
– Perishable food items
– Any items determined by applicable laws and regulations as well as internal policies to be prohibited or restricted
Table of Contents
Does DHL check all packages?
No, DHL does not check all packages; however, they do check packages when required by law, when requested by a customer, or based on the contracted service level. For example, DHL Express may open and inspect any package or its contents without notice, if their security regulations or applicable laws require it.
They also have the right to refuse carriage, inspection, or delivery of any package or article they deem inappropriate or contend is not in adherence with their policies and/or service standards. If customers request an inspection of their packages prior to delivery, they must request the service and pay an additional fee for the labor and materials necessary to inspect the article.
However, note that some items are considered non-inspected, such as the standard Mailboxes, USPS envelopes, magazines, forwarded items, and items sent via USPS.
Does DHL investigate missing packages?
Yes, DHL does investigate missing packages. If your package hasn’t arrived within their estimated delivery date, they will investigate the issue. You can contact their Customer Service team and provide them with your tracking number, or if you don’t have a tracking number, provide them with as much information about your package as possible such as sender and destination addresses, item description and value.
They will then look into the issue and provide you with an update on the status of your package. If the item has been lost in transit, they may provide you with a replacement as part of their Money-Back Guarantee.
Do they check every package?
No, they do not check every package. Depending on the shipper and size of the package, the likelihood of a package being checked becomes higher. In general, the packages considered to be the most suspicious looking or those that are being sent from higher risk countries are the ones that are likely to be checked first.
Additionally, packages containing items such as medication, alcohol, or tobacco may be checked as well. Customs may also randomly select packages for inspection as part of their brand of security. If a package is suspected to have products that are prohibited to bring into certain countries then the package will be checked and possibly confiscated.
How does DHL clear customs?
DHL works closely with local customs agents to ensure that items passing through customs are cleared quickly and efficiently. DHL’s advanced customs clearance system minimizes paperwork by sharing shipment data with customs authorities in advance.
Upon shipment arrival, DHL posts necessary customs documentation and obtains duty, tax, and other necessary payments on behalf of the customer. Where necessary, DHL may contact the customer for additional information or documents.
Depending on freight origin, destination, and contents, DHL may treat shipments as exports or imports. Exports require the filing of export declarations with local customs while imports require an import declaration to be filed.
The whole process is generally transparent to the customer, with just a few steps required on their part. Once complete, DHL can manage the release and delivery of the imported goods on their behalf.
Are all packages Xrayed?
No, not all packages are Xrayed. There are a variety of factors that help determine which packages go through X-ray screenings and which packages do not. Generally, packages considered higher risk are more likely to be Xrayed.
This includes packages sent via international mail, packages that appear to be unusually heavy or thick, and parcels sent to certain restricted locations. Additionally, packages flagged by automated sorting machines as suspect may be subjected to further physical examination or Xray screening.
Ultimately, the exact criteria for Xray screening is determined by the country the package is being sent to and the type of mail service being used.
What happens if customs seizes an illegal package?
If customs seizes an illegal package, the contents of the package will be confiscated and the recipient may face penalties, such as fines or jail time. Depending on the nature of the package, the authorities may also investigate further to determine the source of the package and pursue criminal charges.
If the package is found to contain illegal drugs or counterfeit goods, the recipient is likely to face more serious consequences and increased penalties. Additionally, the recipient may not receive any compensation for the cost of the package or its contents.
Customs officers are required to report such violations to their respective agencies and provide additional information such as the name of the recipient and contact information, which may be used in further investigation.
Can you send frozen food internationally?
Yes, you can send frozen food internationally. Depending on the country you are sending to, you will need to do research on the specific regulations and guidelines that apply. Depending on the country, certain documentation and permits may be required before shipping.
It is also important to factor in the transit time and cost when shipping food internationally, as well as ensuring that the food can be safely stored and transported at the right temperature until it reaches its destination.
For example, it is important to prepare frozen food correctly and then package it in an insulated container such as a Styrofoam box that is packed with dry ice to maintain the necessary low temperature for the duration of the trip.
How do I ship a package with food?
Shipping food can be tricky if you want to make sure that it arrives in good condition. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind when shipping food:
1. Pack food carefully. Whether it’s candy, cake, or a frozen entrée, take care to put the food in a box that is cushioned with packing peanuts or other packing materials to secure it during transit.
Make sure that there is enough space inside the box and between items so that the food does not knock against other items.
2. Label appropriately. Place a label on the outside of the box that clearly states that food is inside. You should also make sure that the ingredients and any relevant allergies are listed on the packaging.
3. Choose a secure shipping method. Air shipping is generally the most secure way to transport food, as it can be monitored and kept at a cooler temperature than ground transport. If you are shipping something with multiple components or depending on temperature, consider using an insulated shipping box with an ice pack or coolant type product to keep the temperature consistent.
4. Choose a reliable carrier. Research carriers based on their delivery times, cost, and reliability. Choose a carrier that is experienced in transporting food and offers tracking capabilities.
5. Prepare items that are intended to be eaten immediately. If you are shipping food that is intended to be eaten immediately, make sure all of the components of the dish are tightly sealed and well-packaged.
If the food is perishable, it is best to ship it priority and arrange for delivery on a day when the package is likely to arrive at the final destination sooner rather than later.
Can I send food with send my bag?
Yes, you can send food with SendMyBag. As long as the food is within the maximum weight allowance for your shipment and it complies with SendMyBag’s terms and conditions related to sending food, you are free to send food.
You should keep in mind that freezing food is not accepted due to the risk of it thawing during transit and getting spoiled. Additionally, food should be well packaged in sealed containers to avoid the possibility of the food spilling and making a mess.
All food must also be clearly labeled and marked as edible food.
Do DHL packages go through customs?
Yes, all DHL packages go through customs. When a package is sent through DHL, it enters the country and passes through customs. Customs clearance is required in order to ensure that only packages with correct taxes and duty are allowed to enter the country.
The duty rates, documents required, and other pertinent information depend on what country the package is coming from, and what the contents of the package are. Once the package passes through customs, then DHL will proceed to deliver it to the specified recipient.
Do customs open DHL packages?
Yes, DHL packages are subject to customs inspection when they are shipped, just like any other international package. The customs department will open the package and inspect its contents, as well as collect any taxes or duties due.
If customs discovers any items prohibited by your country’s laws, they have the right to detain and seize them. Additionally, if the package is being sent to an individual, customs will check to make sure the items being sent comply with regulations.
Customs departments can also decide to keep a package for further inspection, causing potential delays. Finally, if you are the recipient of the package, you may need to present valid identification to the courier before they will hand over the package.
Will DHL deliver without paying customs?
No, DHL will not deliver any items without paying customs. Depending on the country, there may be different tariffs and duties that need to be paid in order for DHL to deliver the item. All customs fees must be paid in full before DHL will accept the item for shipping.
Additionally, some countries may place restrictions on what items can be imported. DHL cannot deliver any items that are subject to import restrictions in that country. It’s important to check with the local customs office before sending a package with DHL to make sure it can be delivered.
How much is DHL customs clearance?
The cost of customs clearance will vary depending on the type of shipment, the size and weight of the shipment, and other factors such as the country of origin and final destination. As such, it is not possible to provide an exact cost.
However, DHL states that customs related fees can include a customs clearance charge, duties and taxes. According to DHL’s website, if applicable, VAT, duties, recording fees and other applicable local tax and administrative fees should be collected from the receiver:
“Duties and taxes are set by the destination country. You are responsible for import obligations and any related charges. DHL obtains the customs clearance on the receiver’s behalf and the costs are billed to the receiver unless pre-paid by the Shipper.
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Generally speaking, DHL does not charge a fee for their customs clearance services, but instead charges for their services or passes along the costs relating to duties and taxes. As such, it is important to review all documentation related to the shipment and consult your local customs authority to ensure that you are aware of all associated fees.
Does DHL ask for customs payment before delivery?
No, DHL does not ask for customs payment before delivery. DHL’s standard policy is to pay the customs fees and taxes on behalf of its customers, as long as these charges are applicable in the country in which DHL operates.
This means that DHL will provide its customers with a Duty & Tax invoice along with their shipment when applicable. Customers can therefore choose to pay the customs fees and taxes on behalf of DHL or pay the amount directly to their local customs office upon delivery.
If they choose to pay the customs fees and taxes directly to their local customs office, they will need to follow their local guidelines regarding payment.
