Questions
Questions and answers
Here are the questions that come up most often for people shipping cargo for the first time or waiting for a parcel from far away. The answers are short; you will find details in the sections of the guide linked at the bottom of the page.
If the answer is neither in the carrier's rules nor here, ask in writing — and keep the reply.
About this guide
Is this the same cargo delivery company that used to be here?
No. The company's former website on this domain no longer exists, and this guide has nothing to do with it. The name simply came with the domain.
Can I ship cargo through you?
No. We do not transport anything, accept orders or pass them on to carriers. The guide only explains how shipping works.
Do you help with customs clearance?
No, we are not a customs broker and do not advise on specific declarations. General information about Russian customs clearance is on the archived page of this section (in Russian); other countries have their own customs authorities and rules.
Where does the information in this guide come from?
From international rules and publicly available documents, which are listed in the sources on every page. Always check the specific terms with your carrier.
Sending
How do I know which shipping method suits me?
Weigh up the weight and size of the cargo, urgency, fragility and distance. The methods are described in the Methods section, and compared in Reviews.
Do I need a packing list for a domestic shipment?
It is not always required, but it is very useful: a packing list helps on delivery and with a claim for missing items. For valuable cargo it is better to make one.
Is it worth insuring inexpensive cargo?
Decide based on how much you would mind losing the item and what is at stake. Find out the limits of the carrier's liability without insurance — sometimes that is enough.
Can I ship a laptop or a phone?
Usually yes, but because of the built-in lithium battery, carriers have special rules, especially for air transport. Check the terms in advance.
Receiving and customs
What should I check on delivery?
The number of pieces, the condition of the packaging and seals and, if in doubt, the contents. All of this is done before you sign the delivery documents.
What if the carrier will not let me open the box before signing?
Note on the delivery document that the contents have not been checked, and photograph the packaging. This will help if damage is discovered later.
How much can be brought into Russia duty-free?
Russia sets duty-free allowances for goods for personal use, and they change from time to time. The current values are published by the Federal Customs Service of Russia, so check them there as of the import date. Other countries have their own customs authorities and allowances.
What governs customs clearance in Russia?
The Customs Code of the Eurasian Economic Union and the documents adopted under it. Practical information for individuals is published by the Federal Customs Service of Russia.
Read next
- Safety
Dangerous goods, items you cannot ship, heavy pieces and safe loading.
- Choosing
How to choose a carrier and what to ask before shipping, so you do not end up arguing about transit times, liability and documents.
- Customs (in Russian)
An archived address from the former website: what a recipient should know about Russian customs clearance in general terms.
Sources
- Customs Code of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)
- Federal Customs Service of Russia — information for individuals
- ICAO — Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
- IATA — Dangerous Goods Regulations
This information is based on the documents in force on the date of publication. International rules, carrier terms and customs requirements are updated regularly, so before you ship, check the current texts and the terms of whoever will be carrying your cargo.