Sending something special across the globe
Australia may be thousands of miles away, but that doesn’t mean sending a parcel there has to be complicated. Whether you’re posting a gift to family, fulfilling an order or sending something heartfelt, there are several postal and courier options to help you do it smoothly. The key question, of course, is how much will it cost?
Average cost to send a parcel to Australia
The price of sending a parcel to Australia from the UK depends on a few key things: weight, size, delivery speed and which courier you choose. Here's a rough guide to current pricing:
- Royal Mail International Standard (no tracking): from £6.50 for a letter or small parcel under 100g
- Royal Mail International Tracked: from £10.50 for small items under 100g
- 1kg parcel: around £18 to £25 depending on the service
- 2kg parcel: around £28 to £35
- Tracked courier services (like DPD, DHL, or ParcelForce): from £35 to £60, depending on speed and parcel size
Larger or heavier parcels will naturally cost more, especially if you're adding tracking or a faster delivery option.
Delivery speed and tracking
For standard services, delivery to Australia usually takes 7 to 10 working days, though delays can happen with customs or during busy periods. Tracked courier services like DHL Express or UPS can deliver in as little as 3 to 5 working days, but they do come at a higher cost.
Most parcel services now include end-to-end tracking, or at the very least confirmation upon delivery. If peace of mind is important, it’s worth choosing a tracked option—even if it costs a little more.
Things to consider before sending
Before you send your parcel, it’s good to check a few things:
- Packaging: Make sure your parcel is securely wrapped and labelled correctly.
- Prohibited items: Australia has strict rules on what can be imported. Items like food, plants, and certain cosmetics may be restricted or require additional paperwork.
- Customs declaration: Always fill in the correct customs form. You’ll be asked to declare what’s inside and its value—even if it’s a gift.
Summary
Sending a parcel to Australia from the UK can cost as little as £6.50 for light items, but most standard parcels will fall in the £18 to £35 range depending on weight and service. With the right courier, proper packaging and clear labelling, your parcel can travel halfway around the world safely and smoothly—arriving with a little bit of love tucked inside.