Shipping Internationally from Belgium: What You Need to Know
Belgium's central location in Europe makes it an excellent hub for international shipping. Whether you're sending a personal gift or fulfilling an e-commerce order abroad, this guide covers everything you need to know about international parcel delivery from Belgium.
Choosing the Right International Service
bpost offers several international shipping products, and the right choice depends on your priorities:
| Service | Best For | Tracking | Typical Delivery (EU) |
|---|---|---|---|
| bpack World Easy | Non-urgent, economy shipping | Basic | 5–10 business days |
| bpack World Business | Reliable tracked shipping | Full tracking | 3–7 business days |
| bpack Europe Business | EU destinations | Full tracking | 2–5 business days |
| EMS (Express Mail Service) | Urgent international parcels | Full tracking | 2–4 business days |
Customs Requirements: What You Must Declare
When shipping outside the European Union, customs documentation is mandatory. Here's what you need:
CN22 Form
Required for packets and small parcels up to 2 kg sent outside the EU. This is a simplified customs declaration that includes:
- Description of contents (be specific — "gift" alone is not sufficient)
- Quantity and weight of items
- Declared value in euros
- Whether the item is a gift, commercial sample, or merchandise
CN23 Form
Required for parcels over 2 kg or any parcel with a declared value above a certain threshold. This is a more detailed declaration and must be attached to the outside of the parcel in a transparent pouch.
Important: Inaccurate or incomplete customs declarations can lead to delays, fines, or confiscation of your parcel. Always declare the full contents accurately.
Shipping Within the EU: No Customs Required
For EU destinations (France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, etc.), no customs forms are needed. However, you still need to ensure the address is clearly written, postage is correct, and fragile items are appropriately packed.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Certain items cannot be shipped internationally regardless of destination. Common prohibited items include:
- Dangerous goods and hazardous materials
- Lithium batteries (restrictions apply)
- Cash and negotiable instruments
- Illegal substances
- Counterfeit goods
- Certain food products and plants (varies by country)
Always check both Belgian export regulations and the destination country's import rules before shipping.
Delivery Timeframes: What to Expect
International delivery times vary depending on the destination, chosen service, and customs clearance:
- Western Europe: 2–5 business days (standard tracked)
- Eastern Europe: 4–8 business days
- North America: 5–10 business days
- Asia Pacific: 7–14 business days
- Africa & South America: 10–21 business days
These are estimates. Customs processing at the destination can add additional days, especially during peak periods (Christmas, Golden Week, etc.).
Tips for Smooth International Shipping
- Insure valuable parcels — international claims processes can be complex but insurance provides protection.
- Use full, accurate addresses including postal/ZIP codes and the country name in English.
- Print labels clearly — handwritten addresses can be misread by automated sorting systems abroad.
- Check public holidays at the destination — they affect delivery timelines.
- Keep copies of all customs declarations in case of a dispute.