Australian Post International Shipping: A Comprehensive Guide

Share This Post

Australian Post, Australia’s esteemed national postal service, has established itself as a trusted and efficient conduit for international shipping. Its legacy of connecting continents and facilitating global commerce offers a robust platform for sending goods across international borders.

In an era where global trade and communication are paramount, Australian Post’s international shipping services are not just a convenience but a necessity. They offer a seamless gateway for Australians to access global markets, fostering international relationships and enabling the efficient exchange of goods worldwide.

This guide aims to comprehensively unpack the services offered by Australian Post, ensuring users can leverage its full potential for their international shipping requirements.

What is Australia Post?

Australia Post, commonly known as AusPost, is a government-owned corporation that serves as Australia’s primary postal operator. With a rich history dating back to 1809, it has evolved into a multifaceted organisation far beyond its traditional mail delivery services.

Today, Australia Post operates as a key player in the logistics and communication sectors, providing a wide array of services, including parcel delivery, express mail, freight forwarding, and digital solutions.

As a national postal operator of Australia, AusPost has a vast network that covers every corner of Australia, ensuring that even the most remote communities stay connected. As per the 2023 Australia Post Annual Report, Australia Post boasts a network of 4,271 Post Offices, with 2,507 of these situated in rural and remote areas, ensuring even the most isolated communities remain connected. In the financial year 2023 alone, Australia Post delivered over 2.5 billion items nationwide and welcomed more than 202 million visits to its Post Office network, underscoring its integral role in the daily lives of Australians.

Such staggering numbers clearly illustrate the pivotal role of Australia Post in the Australian market. Its extensive network and the sheer volume of deliveries showcase its operational capacity and deep-rooted significance in the fabric of Australian society. This robust infrastructure and widespread reach form the backbone of Australia Post’s international shipping services, enabling it to seamlessly connect Australia with the rest of the world.

What International Services Does Australian Post Provide?

Australian Post, renowned for its domestic postal services, offers a diverse range of international shipping options. These services are designed to cater to various needs, whether for personal or business purposes, ensuring that every parcel reaches its global destination efficiently and securely.

Here’s an overview of the key international services provided by the Australian Post:

International Courier

The International Courier service is Australia Post’s premium option for time-sensitive deliveries. It prioritises your urgent parcels, offering rapid transit times to select international destinations. This service is ideal for businesses and individuals who need to send critical documents or parcels that require expedited delivery.

International Express

The International Express is tailored for shipments that require fast delivery but are less urgent than those sent via International Courier. This service offers a balance of speed and cost, making it a popular choice for businesses and individuals. It includes tracking and signature on delivery.

International Standard

The International Standard service is a cost-effective solution for non-urgent, trackable parcels. It’s suitable for those who are looking for a reliable service at a more economical price point. This option is popular among e-commerce businesses and individuals sending gifts or personal items internationally.

International Economy

The International Economy is the most budget-friendly option, ideal for less urgent shipments where cost savings are a priority. While the delivery times are longer, this service is perfect for sending items that are not time-sensitive, such as general correspondence or small parcels.

The International Economy service by Australia Post offers two distinct options catering to different needs: Economy Air and Economy Sea Mail.

Economy Air is suitable for sending lighter items globally without the added cost of expedited shipping, with transportation carried out via air. This option is ideal for non-urgent letters, documents, and small parcels up to 2kg.
Economy Sea Mail is tailored for heavier and bulkier items that do not require fast delivery. Utilising sea transportation offers a more cost-effective solution for sending large parcels internationally. This option is handy for shipments where cost considerations outweigh the need for speed.

Presented below is a comprehensive table that succinctly summarises and contrasts the various international shipping services offered by Australia Post, providing a clear comparison to help you choose the service that best meets your needs.

Service	Ideal for	Delivery Timeframe	Weight Limitations	Features	Custom Forms	Packaging Options	Prices Starting From
International Courier	Urgent letters, documents, parcels	2+ business days between major metro areas	Up to 500g for letters, 20kg for parcels	Tracking, SMS/email notifications, Signature on Delivery	CN23 customs form	Use your own packaging or Courier satchels	$95.35
International Express	Urgent letters, documents, parcels	Varies, with priority handling	Up to 500g for letters and documents, 20kg for parcels	Tracking, SMS/email notifications, Signature on Delivery	CN23 customs form, Letter of indemnity for specific destinations (Belarus, Cuba, Iran, North Korea (DPR), Russia or Syria)	Express satchels, boxes, envelopes or use your own packaging	$28.05 for letters and documents, $30.35 for parcels
International Standard	Trackable, non-urgent parcels	Varies based on destination	Up to 20kg for parcels	Tracking with email notifications and SMS	CN23 customs form	Standard satchels or boxes, or use your own packaging	$15.35
International Economy Air	Non-urgent, low-value parcels and letters, printed material with no commercial value and postcard or greeting card	Extended delivery times, varies by destination	Up to 500g for letters and documents, 50g for postcards and greeting cards and 2kg for parcels	Option for Signature on Delivery and Extra Cover	CN22 or CN23 customs form	Economy Air envelopes or use your own packaging	$2.70 for letters and documents, $9.75 for parcels, $3 for postcards and greeting cards
International Economy	Non-urgent, low-value parcels to selected countries	Extended delivery times, varies by destination	From 2 kg to 20 kg parcels only	Option for Signature on Delivery and Extra Cover	CN23 customs form	use your own packaging	$56.45

Each of these services is designed with specific shipping needs in mind, ensuring that customers can select the most appropriate option based on urgency, budget, and parcel size. With Australian Post’s extensive global network, customers can confidently send parcels to almost any destination worldwide.

Where Does Australia Post Deliver To?

Australia Post boasts an impressive global reach, delivering to more than 220 countries and territories around the world. This extensive network ensures that whether you’re sending a parcel to close neighbours in the Asia-Pacific region, across the continents to Europe and North America, or to more distant locations in Africa and South America, Australia Post has the capability to facilitate your delivery.

While Australia Post covers a broad spectrum of countries, it’s important to note that the availability of specific services like International Courier, Express, Standard, or Economy may vary depending on the destination. This is due to differing logistical capabilities and regulations in each country.

What are International Zones Made by Australia Post?

Australia Post categorises the world into different international zones, each zone representing a group of countries or regions. This zoning system helps determine the postage charges based on the destination’s geographical location and the associated delivery costs and speed.

Currently, there are five international zones.

Zone 1: New Zealand
Zone 2: Asia Pacific
Zone 3: US & Canada
Zone 4: UK & Europe
Zone 5: Rest of the World

Zone 1: New Zealand

This zone includes New Zealand only, reflecting the close proximity and strong postal connections between Australia and New Zealand.

Zone 2: Asia Pacific

This zone encompasses China, the Pacific Islands, and the rest of Asia. It represents a significant portion of Australia Post’s international shipping, covering a diverse and economically vibrant region.

The countries and regions included in Pacific Island are –

Countries and Regions
American Samoa	Bangladesh
Cambodia	Cook Islands
Fiji	French Polynesia
Guam	Kiribati
Laos	Macao
Marshall Islands	Micronesia
Nauru	New Caledonia
Niue	Nepal
Northern Mariana Islands	Pakistan
Palau	Papua New Guinea
Philippines	Pitcairn
Samoa	Solomon Islands
Sri Lanka	Timor Leste
Tokelau	Tonga
Tuvalu	Vanuatu
Wallis and Futuna

The countries and regions included in the rest of Asia are –

Countries and Regions
Hong Kong	India
Indonesia	Japan
Maldives	North Korea
Singapore	South Korea
Taiwan	Thailand
Vietnam

Zone 3: US & Canada

This zone includes the United States (including the United States Minor Outlying Islands) and Canada, covering the entire North American continent, a major destination for Australian international shipments.

Zone 4: UK & Europe

This zone includes the United Kingdom & Ireland, Major Europe, and the rest of the world (list-1). It represents the extensive reach of Australia Post across the European continent.

The below countries are included in Major Europe.

Countries
France	Germany
Italy	Netherlands
Norway	Spain
Sweden	Switzerland

The rest of the world list-1 includes the following countries and regions.

Countries and Regions
Albania	Austria
Belgium	Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil	Bulgaria
Cyprus	Czech Republic
Denmark	Estonia
Finland	Greece
Hungary	Iceland
Kosovo	Malta
Montenegro	Myanmar (Burma)
North Macedonia	Poland
Portugal	Romania
Russian Federation	Serbia
Slovakia	South Africa
Turkey	Ukraine

Zone 5: Rest of the World

Encompassing countries that do not fall into the previous zones, this category ensures that Australia Post’s services extend to virtually every corner of the globe.

Here is a list of counties included in Zone 5.

Counties
Afghanistan	Algeria
Angola	Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda	Argentina
Armenia	Aruba
Ascension and Tristan da Cunha	Azerbaijan
Bahamas	Bahrain
Barbados	Belarus
Belize	Benin
Bermuda	Bhutan
Bolivia	Burkina Faso
Burundi	Cameroon
Cape Verde	Cayman Islands
Central African Republic	Chad
Chile	Colombia
Comoros	Congo (Democratic Republic)
Congo (Republic)	Costa Rica
Cote d’Ivoire	Croatia
Cuba	Curacao
Djibouti	Dominica
Dominican Republic	Ecuador
Egypt	Eswatini
Ethiopia	Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Faroe Islands	French Guiana
Gabon	Gambia
Georgia	Ghana
Gibraltar	Greenland
Grenada	Guadeloupe
Guatemala	Guinea
Guinea-Bissau	Guyana
Guyana	Holy See
Honduras	Iran
Israel	Jamaica
Jordan	Kazakhstan
Kenya	Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan	Latvia
Lebanon	Lesotho
Liberia	Libya
Liechtenstein	Lithuania
Luxembourg	Madagascar
Malawi	Malaysia
Mali	Martinique
Mauritania	Mauritius
Mexico	Moldova
Mongolia	Montserrat
Morocco	Mozambique
Namibia	Nicaragua
Niger	Nigeria
Oman	Panama
Paraguay	Peru
Puerto Rico	Qatar
Reunion	Rwanda
Saint Helena	Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia	Saint Martin (French part)
Saint Pierre and Miquelon	Saint Vincent and Grenadines
Sao Tome and Principe	Saudi Arabia
Senegal	Seychelles
Sierra Leone	Somalia
Sudan	Suriname
Syria	Tajikistan
Tanzania	Togo
Trinidad and Tobago	Tunisia
Turkmenistan	Turks and Caicos Island
Uganda	United Arab Emirates
Uruguay	Uzbekistan
Venezuela	Virgin Islands (British)
Virgin Islands (US)	Yemen
Zambia	Zimbabwe

How Long Does Australia Post Take to Deliver Packages?

The delivery time for international packages sent through Australia Post varies based on several key factors. These timeframes are not fixed and can be influenced by the destination, shipping service, and external variables such as customs processes.

Factors Influencing Delivery Timeframes

Service Type: Australia Post offers different international shipping services, each with its own delivery speed. For instance, the International Courier is the fastest option, while the International Economy is more budget-friendly but takes longer.
Destination Country: The distance and logistics infrastructure of the destination country play a significant role. Deliveries to nearby countries like New Zealand are generally quicker than those to more distant locations.
Customs Processing: The time it takes for a package to clear customs can vary greatly and is not within Australia Post’s control. This can add to the delivery time, especially in countries with stringent customs procedures.
Local Delivery Standards: Local postal services take over the final delivery once the package reaches the destination country. Their efficiency can impact the total delivery time.
Operational Factors: Factors such as public holidays, weekends, and operational workflows both in Australia and the destination country can influence transit times.
Global Events: Circumstances like pandemics, natural disasters, or political unrest can cause unforeseen delays. These events can disrupt standard shipping routes and schedules, leading to longer delivery times that are often unpredictable.

Australia Post Estimated Delivery Times

Australia Post services various international destinations, each with its own estimated delivery timeframe. Below is a table highlighting some of the most popular destinations, providing a snapshot of the expected delivery times for these locations.

Please visit Australia Post’s International Delivery Times page for a comprehensive list of all destinations and their specific delivery estimates.

Note: The delivery times mentioned are general estimates and can be affected by factors such as customs processing, local postal service efficiency, operational factors, and global events. The information in the table below was taken from the Australia Post website in November 2023; therefore, it may change. It’s always advisable to check the latest information for the most accurate delivery estimates, especially during peak periods or special events.

Country	Courier Parcels & Letters	Express Parcels & Letters	Standard Parcels	Economy Parcels	Economy Air & International Post Registered Letters
Canada	2-4 business days	3-6 business days	6-9 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	15+ business days
China	3-5 business days	5-10 business days	8-15 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: Not available	20+ business days
Cuba	Not available	8-18 business days	12-25 business days	Air: 25+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	Air: 25+ business days Sea: 2-3 months
France	2-4 business days	6-10 business days	8-12 business days	Air: 20+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
Germany	2-5 business days	7-10 business days	8-12 business days	Air: 20+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
Hong Kong	2-3 business days	3-6 business days	5-9 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: Not available	15+ business days
India	4-6 business days	6-10 business days	7-11 business days	Air: 20+ business days Sea: Not available	20+ business days
Ireland	2-3 business days	6-9 business days	7-12 business days	Air: 20+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
Italy	2-4 business days	6-11 business days	9-15 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
Japan	2-4 business days	4-11 business days	6-13 business days	Not available	15+ business days
Malaysia	2-3 business days	4-6 business days	6-10 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: Not available	15+ business days
Netherlands	2-5 business days	8-12 business days	10-18 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
New Zealand	2-3 business days	2-5 business days	5-8 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: Not available	15+ business days
Philippines	2-4 business days	4-11 business days	10-18 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: Not available	25+ business days
Singapore	2-3 business days	3-6 business days	5-7 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: Not available	15+ business days
South Korea	2-4 business days	4-8 business days	8-13 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: Not available	20+ business days
Sri Lanka	2-4 business days	5-10 business days	8-12 business days	Not available	20+ business days
Switzerland	2-3 business days	7-11 business days	9-14 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: 2-3 months	20+ business days
Taiwan	2-3 business days	5-10 business days	8-13 business days	Air: 20+ business days Sea: Not available	15+ business days
Thailand	2-3 business days	4-8 business days	6-10 business days	Not available	15+ business days
United Kingdom	2-3 business days	4-6 business days	6-8 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	15+ business days
United Arab Emirates	2-3 business days	4-7 business days	6-12 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: 2-3 months	15+ business days
USA	2-4 business days	3-6 business days	6-9 business days	Air: 15+ business days Sea: 2-3 months	15+ business days
Vietnam	2-4 business days	4-10 business days	9-17 business days	Not available	20+ business days
Virgin Islands (British)	Not available	8-18 business days	15-25 business days	Air: Suspended Sea: 2-3 months	25+ business days
Virgin Islands, U.S.	Suspended	Not available	20-25 business days	Suspended	25+ business days

Types of Packaging Offered by Australia Post

Australia Post provides a diverse range of packaging options, categorised into three main types: Envelopes and Satchels, Boxes and Bags, and Custom Packaging. Each category is tailored to accommodate different shipping requirements, ensuring secure and efficient delivery of items.

Envelopes and Satchels

International Prepaid Satchels

International Prepaid Satchels are designed for shipping items weighing up to 2kg to specific countries, including Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA. These satchels, which are part of Australia Post’s flat rate packaging range, include the price of postage and are available in standard, express, and courier options. They come in small, medium, and large sizes, with tracking included, and are available in select retail stores.

Envelope

The Envelope range at Australia Post caters to various mailing needs, offering a wide selection of envelopes, including 11B, C5, C4, and DL sizes. These envelopes are ideal for sending letters and invoices, featuring peel-and-seal closures with window and plain face options. They are available in various pack sizes, though postage is not included in the purchase.

Boxes and Bags

Rigid Mailers

Rigid Mailers are perfect for shipping documents, discs, and photos. They offer additional protection with their 100% recyclable, heavy-duty card construction and glued edges. These mailers come in four sizes and feature a self-sealing flap-over lid.

Mailing Tubes

For larger items like posters, plans, or prints, Mailing Tubes provide an ideal solution. Available in three sizes, these tubes are made from rigid fibreboard and protect contents from bending.

Padded Mailers

Padded Mailers offer extra protection with bubble cushioning, making them suitable for small, fragile items. They are lightweight, durable, water-resistant, and available in six sizes.

Recycled Padded Bags are an eco-friendly option, made from 100% recycled newspaper. Available in three sizes, these bags are ideal for shipping certificates or documents and feature a convenient tear strip.

Tough Bags

Tough Bags are designed for shipping non-fragile items anywhere in the world. These bags are available in six sizes and are made with a tough kraft outer layer, making them 100% recyclable.

Custom Packaging

Australia Post also offers Custom Packaging solutions, allowing businesses to create their own branded packaging. This service is ideal for enhancing brand recognition and customer experience, allowing businesses to design packaging that reflects their brand identity.

Australia Post Sizing and Packing Restrictions

When using Australia Post for shipping, it’s important to be aware of the sizing and packing restrictions in place. These guidelines are designed to ensure the safe and efficient handling of parcels, both in transit and during processing. Adhering to these restrictions ensures compliance with Australia Post’s requirements and helps avoid any potential delays or additional charges.

Letters and Documents

Small Letters and Postcards

Small letters and postcards are designed for sending printed material overseas with no commercial value. These include enveloped mail, letter sheets, and unenclosed postcards.

The specifications for a small letter are:

Maximum size: No larger than 130 mm x 240 mm.
Maximum thickness: No thicker than 5 mm.
Maximum weight: No heavier than 250g.
Shape: Must be rectangular.

Large Letters

Large letters are another option for sending printed material overseas without commercial value. They differ from small letters in size and weight.

A large letter is:

Maximum size: No larger than 260 mm x 360 mm.
Maximum thickness: No thicker than 20 mm.
Maximum weight: No heavier than 500g.
Shape: Rectangular and not classified as a small letter.

International Greeting Cards and Postcards

International greeting cards and postcards are specific to non-commercial printed material.

The criteria for a greeting card are:

Type: A card or postcard.
Maximum size: No larger than 260 mm x 360 mm.
Maximum thickness: No thicker than 5 mm.
Maximum weight: No heavier than 50g.
Additional requirements: Must be endorsed with ‘Card Only’ and sealed inside an envelope (for greeting cards).

Comparison Table for Letters and Documents

Type	Maximum Weight	Maximum Dimensions	Maximum Thickness
Small Letters	250g	130 mm x 240 mm	5 mm
Large Letters	500g	260 mm x 360 mm	20 mm
Greeting Cards	50g	260 mm x 360 mm	5 mm

Parcels

International Parcels

For international parcels, the charges are based on the actual weight. The maximum weight limit is 20kg, and the maximum girth is 140 cm. Notably, Australia Post international prepaid satchels or flat rate satchels do not require cubic measurements.

Maximum Dimensions for International Parcels

Maximum weight: 20 kg.
Maximum length: 105 cm.
Maximum girth: 140 cm.

How is Girth Calculated by Australia Post for International Parcels?

The formula for calculating the girth of an overseas parcel is (width + height) x 2. The longest side of the parcel is considered the length, and the two shortest sides are used to calculate the girth.

For example:

You have a parcel with dimensions of 15 cm (width), 80 cm (length), and 25 cm (height).

So, first, identify the length (longest side), which in this case is 80 cm. Then, use the width and height for the girth calculation: (15 cm + 25 cm) x 2. This results in 40 cm x 2 = 80 cm girth, which is within the girth limit.

Now, let’s take a parcel with dimensions of 40 cm (width), 100 cm (length), and 50 cm (height). The length (longest side) is 100 cm. The girth calculation in this case is: (40 cm + 50 cm) x 2 = 180 cm girth. This exceeds the maximum girth limit of 140 cm; therefore, the parcel would require special handling or incur additional charges.

Understanding and adhering to these sizing and packing restrictions is essential for anyone using Australia Post for shipping, as it ensures that parcels are suitable for the postal system and helps avoid any potential issues during transit.

Australian Post International Shipping: Prohibited & Restricted Items

When shipping items internationally with Australia Post, understanding the specific guidelines regarding prohibited and restricted items is crucial. These regulations are in place to ensure safety and compliance with both Australian and international laws, and adherence to them is essential for a smooth shipping process.

Prohibited Items

Prohibited items are those that are not allowed to be sent under any circumstances. These include.

Dangerous Goods: Such as flammable liquids (nail polish, paint, perfume), flammable solids (safety matches, self-heating items), aerosols (butane cigarette lighters), explosives (flares, fireworks, ammunition), and corrosives (batteries).
Illegal Substances: Including all types of illegal drugs and narcotics.
Weapons: Firearms, ammunition, and other types of weapons.
Perishable Foods: Items that can spoil or decay, such as fresh produce and meats.
Live Animals: The shipment of live animals is strictly prohibited.
Counterfeit Goods: Items that infringe on intellectual property rights.

Restricted Items

Restricted items can be sent but are subject to specific conditions:

Lithium Batteries: Both lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries have strict regulations. For example, lithium-ion batteries must have a maximum watt-hour rating of 100Wh, and lithium-metal batteries must contain no more than two grams of lithium.
Alcohol and Tobacco: Subject to restrictions and duties in many countries.
Medications and Pharmaceuticals: Require appropriate documentation and adherence to regulations.
Cultural Artefacts and Antiquities: May need special permissions for export.

Country-Specific Restrictions

It’s vital to check the destination country’s customs regulations before shipping, as each country has its own set of import rules. While Australia Post provides a guide and resources, the sender is responsible for ensuring compliance with these regulations.

If you’re involved in shipping hazardous substances, such as chemicals, it’s crucial to adhere to GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) labelling requirements. To gain a deeper understanding of GHS labelling requirements and best practices, you might find the following guides from our collection particularly useful:

GHS Label Requirements: A comprehensive guide detailing the essential requirements for GHS labels, ensuring your shipments meet global safety standards.
GHS Signal Word: This guide explains the importance of signal words in GHS labelling, helping you effectively communicate the hazard level.
GHS Hazard Statements: Dive into the specifics of hazard statements, a critical component of GHS labels for conveying the nature and degree of hazard.
Hazard Signs: Learn about various hazard signs and their significance in the context of GHS and overall safety in shipping hazardous materials.

Australia Post Custom Forms Requirement

When sending items overseas with Australia Post, completing the appropriate customs declaration forms is essential. These forms are a key part of the international shipping process, ensuring that your items clear destination customs efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Completing Customs Forms

Online Declaration: You can get a head start by filling in the customs declaration online. After completing it, you’ll receive a confirmation QR code to show at the Post Office counter.
MyPost Business: This option is ideal if you know the weight of your parcel. Fill in the form, pay online, and print your postage label. You can then lodge your parcel in-store or in a Street Posting Box.
In-Store Completion: You can complete the declaration at the Post Office using your own mobile device. Alternatively, you can fill in a paper customs form in-store, but the staff will need to enter your details into an online form while you wait.

Types of Custom Forms Required

When sending items internationally with Australia Post, the type of customs form required varies depending on the delivery service used. Here’s a breakdown of the forms needed for different services:

For Parcels

Here’s a table outlining the types of customs forms required for different parcel delivery services with Australia Post:

Delivery Service	Forms to Complete
International Courier	CN23 customs form
International Express	CN23 customs form
International Standard	CN23 customs form
International Economy Air (<2 kg)	CN22 or CN23 customs form
International Economy Sea (2-20 kg)	CN23 customs form

For Letters or Documents

For sending letters or documents internationally, the requirements for customs forms are as follows:

Delivery Service	Forms to Complete
International Courier	CN23 customs form
International Express	CN23 customs form
International Post Registered	None
International Economy Air (including stamped mail)	None

Key Elements of the Customs Declaration

Description of Goods: Providing a detailed and accurate description of the goods being shipped.
Export Declarations: Necessary for certain types of goods and destinations.
HS Tariff Numbers: These numbers classify goods for customs and may be required for certain shipments.

Australia Post International Shipping Rates

When it comes to international shipping with Australia Post, the shipping rates are primarily determined based on the services chosen, the weight of the Item and the international zone to which it is being sent.

Below are tables that illustrate the international shipping costs as determined by Australia Post. These tables offer a snapshot of the rates, giving a general idea of the costs of shipping to various international destinations.

Please note that these rates are subject to change, and it’s always advisable to check the most current rates on the Australia Post website. You can use the Australia Post Postage Calculator to calculate postage and delivery times. This tool provides up-to-date information and helps in estimating the cost of your international shipment accurately.

Australia Post International Shipping Cost For Letters and Documents

Economy Air Letters

Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
Small Letters	$2.70	$3.10	$3.70	$3.90	$4.30
Large Letters	$9.30	$10.60	$12.90	$13.60	$15.00
Greeting Cards	$3.00	$3.00	$3.00	$3.00	$3.00

Express – Prepaid Envelopes

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
Medium (C4) 229 mm x 324 mm	250g	$28.05	$31.20	$33.30	$37.70	$42.50
Large (B4+) 390 mm x 290 mm	500g	$30.35	$33.75	$36.00	$40.75	$45.95

Economy – Prepaid Air Mail envelopes – All Zones

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight	Maximum Thickness	Charge per Article ($)	Charge per Pack of 10 – Single Pack ($)	Charge per Pack of 10 – 5+ Packs ($)	Total Minimum Charge when Purchasing 5 Packs of 10 ($)
DL (110 mm x 220 mm )	50g	5 mm	$4.05	$38.40	$36.46	$182.30
C4 (324 mm x 229 mm )	250g	20 mm	$11.15	$105.95	$100.35	$501.75

Registered – Prepaid envelopes – All Zones

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight (500g)	Charge per Item ($)	Charge per Pack of 10 – Single Pack ($)	Charge per Pack of 10 – 5+ Packs ($)	Total Minimum Charge when Purchasing 5 Packs of 10 ($)
Total Minimum Charge when Purchasing 5 Packs of 10 ($)	500g	$19.50	$185.25	$175.50	$877.50
250 mm x 353 mm – B4	500g	$30.30	$287.85	$272.70	$1,363.50

Australia Post International Shipping Cost For Parcels

Standard Parcel Prices by Weight

Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
250 g	$15.35	$18.75	$21.00	$25.75	$30.95
500 g	$18.50	$24.45	$27.25	$32.25	$39.35
1 kg	$24.85	$35.90	$39.75	$45.25	$56.15
1.5 kg	$31.20	$47.35	$52.30	$58.25	$72.95
2 kg	$37.55	$58.80	$64.85	$71.25	$89.75
Every Additional 0.5 kg (20 kg Max)	$37.55 + $4.35/0.5 kg	$58.80 + $6.20/0.5 kg	$64.85 + $7.30/0.5 kg	$71.25 +$8.10/0.5 kg	$89.75 +$10.85/0.5 kg
Economy Air Parcel Service (2 kg limit)	$2.50 cheaper at each Standard Parcel price point up to 2kg
Express Parcel Service	Add $15 at each Standard Parcel price point
Courier Parcel Service	Add $80 at each Standard Parcel price point

Economy Air Parcels – Lightweight Untracked

Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
50g	$9.75	$11.15	$13.55	$14.30	$15.75

Prepaid Standard

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4† (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
Small Satchel (250 mm x 353 mm)	500 g	$18.50	$24.45	$27.25	$32.25	$39.35
Medium Satchel (265 mm x 379 mm)	1 kg	$24.85	$35.90	$39.75	$45.25	$56.15
Large Satchel (250 mm x 405 mm)	2 kg	$37.55	$58.80	$64.85	$71.25	$89.75
Box (310 mm x 225 mm x 102 mm)	5 kg	$63.65	$95.90	$108.65	$119.85	$154.85

Prepaid Express

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
Small Satchel (250 mm x 353 mm)	500 g	$33.50	$39.45	$42.25	$47.25	$54.35
Medium Satchel (265 mm x 379 mm)	1 kg	$39.85	$50.90	$54.75	$60.25	$71.15
Large Satchel (250 mm x 405 mm)	2 kg	$52.55	$73.80	$79.85	$86.25	$104.75
Box (310 mm x225 mm x 102 mm)	5 kg	$78.65	$110.90	$123.65	$134.85	$169.85

Prepaid Courier

Size (mm)	Maximum Weight	Zone 1 (New Zealand)	Zone 2 (Asia Pacific)	Zone 3 (US & Canada)	Zone 4 (UK & Europe)	Zone 5 (Rest of World)
Small Satchel (250 mm x 353 mm)	500 g	$98.50	$104.45	$107.25	$112.25	$119.35
Medium Satchel (265 mm x 379 mm)	1 kg	$104.85	$115.90	$119.75	$125.25	$136.15

Australia Post Pick-up and Drop-off Points

Australia Post provides various convenient pick-up and drop-off options to accommodate the diverse needs of its customers. Beyond the traditional Post Office branches, they offer an innovative service called MyPost. This service enables customers to create a free account for managing their parcel collection and delivery preferences with greater flexibility and convenience.

Post Office Options

Customers can pick up and drop off their parcels at any of the 3,600 Post Offices located across the nation. Australia Post enhances this service with its Parcel Collect option, which is accessible through the MyPost account. This feature allows customers to select a Post Office as their designated Parcel Collect location, offering flexible pick-up times and streamlined service.

Customers are notified via email and SMS when a parcel is ready for collection, ensuring they never miss a delivery. This service is particularly useful for shipments sent through Australia Post or StarTrack, providing a reliable and accessible option for parcel collection.

PO Box Services

Australia Post offers PO Box services for those seeking a more permanent solution. Setting up a PO Box incurs a $20 initial fee, followed by annual charges that vary depending on the box size.

A PO Box application can be made online through MyPost or directly at a Post Office. One of the key advantages of a PO Box is its accessibility; customers can collect their letters and parcels at any time, with the added security of up to 30 days of storage.

Additionally, opting for a PO Box enhances privacy by keeping your home address confidential. Email notifications for deliveries to the PO Box add another layer of convenience, ensuring customers are promptly informed about their incoming mail and parcels.

24/7 Parcel Locker Service

For those needing to send or collect parcels outside regular business hours, Australia Post’s 24/7 Parcel Locker service is an ideal solution. These lockers are strategically located in over 1,000 locations nationwide, including easily accessible spots like railway stations, petrol stations, 7-Eleven stores, and Woolworths stores.

By registering with MyPost and adding a Parcel Locker as an alternative address, customers gain the flexibility to send prepaid parcels weighing up to 16 kg at their convenience. The Parcel Locker service is user-friendly and offers a practical option for busy individuals who require after-hours postal services.

The Bottom Line

In this comprehensive guide to Australian Post International Shipping, we’ve explored the key facets of utilising this robust service for global connections. From understanding the varied shipping options and rates to the intricacies of customs forms and the importance of adhering to packaging and item restrictions, this guide is a valuable resource for anyone looking to utilise Australian Post for international deliveries.

Whether you’re a business expanding globally or an individual sending personal items across borders, Australian Post’s reliable services ensure a seamless shipping experience.

For further insights into shipping and mailing, explore these informative articles at the Triton Store:

What is a Shipping Label?: Get a comprehensive overview of what constitutes a shipping label.
What are Return Labels?: Gain insights into the world of return labels.
What is a Prepaid Shipping Label?: Understand the convenience and efficiency of prepaid shipping labels.
How to Make Shipping Labels?: Learn the process of creating effective shipping labels.
How to Print Shipping Labels?: Discover tips and techniques for printing shipping labels.

Latest Articles

Barcodes

Learning Centres

ALL ARTICLES

BARCODE LEARNING CENTRE

PRINTER LEARNING CENTRE

SCANNER LEARNING CENTRE

WEIGHING & LABELLING

LABELLING & COMPLIANCE