Mail from uk to us

Sending mail from the UK to the US! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Choosing the Right Service

  1. Royal Mail: The UK's postal service offers various services for sending mail to the US, including:
    • Standard Airmail: 10-20 working days, £1.35-£2.35 (approx. $1.70-$3.10 USD)
    • Airmail Signed For: 10-20 working days, £2.35-£4.35 (approx. $3.10-$5.60 USD)
    • Tracked & Signed: 5-10 working days, £4.35-£6.35 (approx. $5.60-$8.20 USD)
  2. Private Courier Services: Companies like UPS, FedEx, and DHL offer faster and more reliable services, but at a higher cost:
    • UPS: 1-5 working days, £15-£30 (approx. $19-$39 USD)
    • FedEx: 1-5 working days, £15-£30 (approx. $19-$39 USD)
    • DHL: 1-5 working days, £10-£25 (approx. $13-$32 USD)

Preparing Your Mail

  1. Addressing: Make sure to use the correct address format for the US:
    • Recipient's Name
    • Street Address or PO Box
    • City
    • State (2-letter abbreviation, e.g., CA for California)
    • Zip Code (5-digit code, e.g., 94111)
  2. Weight and Size: Check the weight and size of your mail to ensure you're using the correct service. You can use Royal Mail's online calculator to estimate the weight and cost.
  3. Content: Be mindful of what you're sending, as some items may be restricted or prohibited by US customs. Check the Royal Mail website for guidance on sending items like food, plants, or liquids.

Additional Tips

  1. Tracking: If you choose a tracked service, you'll be able to monitor the progress of your mail online.
  2. Customs Forms: If you're sending items with a value over £39 (approx. $50 USD), you'll need to complete a customs form (CN23) and attach it to the outside of the package.
  3. Insurance: Consider purchasing insurance to protect against loss or damage. Royal Mail offers insurance up to £2,500 (approx. $3,200 USD).

By following these steps and tips, you should be able to send your mail from the UK to the US efficiently and effectively.