How to Send a Parcel from London to the USA: A Complete Guide
A Complete Guide
Sending a parcel from London to the USA is straightforward when you know the steps. Whether you are sending a gift to family, returning an online purchase, or shipping business documents, this guide walks you through everything from packing your item correctly to choosing the right carrier and completing customs forms
Choose the Right Carrier
The three main carriers for shipping from London to the USA are DHL, FedEx, and UPS. Each offers different delivery speeds and price points depending on the size and weight of your parcel.
As an authorised drop-off point for all three, our Kentish Town shipping store can compare live rates for you on the spot and recommend the fastest or most affordable option for your specific parcel. Generally speaking, delivery to the USA takes between 2 and 5 working days with an express service, or 5 to 10 days with an economy option.
Pack Your Parcel Properly
Good packaging protects your item and prevents delays at customs. Follow these steps:
- Use a strong, double-walled cardboard box avoid reusing old or damaged boxes
- Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap with at least 5cm of cushioning on all sides
- Fill any empty space inside the box with packing paper or foam to stop movement
- Seal all edges firmly with strong packing tape — at least two strips across every seam
- Write the recipient's full address clearly on the outside, including their ZIP code and "USA"
If you need packing materials, our North London packaging store stocks boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and foam in all sizes.
Complete Your Customs Declaration
Every parcel sent from the UK to the USA requires a customs declaration form. This is not optional missing or incomplete customs forms are the most common cause of delays and returned parcels.
You will need to declare:
- A full description of the contents (be specific "gift" is not enough; write "one cotton shirt, size M")
- The value of each item in GBP
- Whether the parcel is a gift, commercial sample, or sold goods
- Your full name and return address in London
Our team at Postal & Courier Etc helps you complete customs documentation correctly so your parcel clears US customs without unnecessary delays.
Know What You Cannot Send to the USA
Certain items are prohibited or restricted when shipping to the United States. These include:
- Firearms, ammunition, and weapons of any kind
- Fresh food, fruits, vegetables, and meat products
- Soil and plant material without a phytosanitary certificate
- Counterfeit goods or items that infringe trademarks
- Lithium batteries shipped alone (not inside a device)
- Prescription medication without the correct documentation
If you are unsure whether your item can be shipped, bring it into the store and we will advise you before booking
Get a Quote and Book Your Shipment
Once your parcel is packed and your customs form is ready, the final step is booking your shipment. You can get a free quote online or visit us in store at 58 Chetwynd Road, Kentish Town, London NW5 1DJ.
We compare rates across DHL, FedEx, and UPS in real time so you always get the best price for your delivery timeline. We also offer full professional packing services if you would prefer us to pack your item securely before it goes
Visit Us in Kentish Town
We are open Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, and serve customers across North London including Hampstead, Highgate, Camden, and Islington. Whether you need to send one small parcel or arrange a regular shipping account for your business, our team is here to help.
Get a free shipping quote or call us on 020 7267 3131.
