Can you send food items to other countries?

Question

I want to send peanut butter and stuff to my friend in Russia and I am wondering if this is possible.

If it is.. how much would it cost? Roughly...

Answer 1

Hi Carrots!

I think it's really cool that you are doing this!

The cost will depend on a few things; How you send the package...US Postal Service or a courier, weight, size, and in which way you will be sending it...air, sea, with insurance/without, labeled as Merchandise, Gift, declaration value, etc.

Generally when I send things over seas (usually records/vinyl) I label the customs form as a 'Gift'. This way the recipient might not be charged a ridiculous customs fee. This is how it works between most countries. I deal with people in the USA all the time, and it applies to them also. When labeling as a 'Gift', you must be sure not to place too high of a declaration value. Another thing...make sure there is no indication of a business or company logo on your package, because most countries will not accept a package labeled as a 'Gift' from a business or corporation into their mail system without imposing this customs fee on the recipient. Plain brown box/wrapper or a postal mailer box is the way to go.

A few of the links that others have supplied here are very helpful as well. Also, if you have the time you might want to research things a little further online, or by contacting your local post office or courier.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Answer 2

It depends on the food, and depends on the country.  There are different customs regulations for each country.  I can't imagine why you couldn't send peanut butter though:)   You definitely want to send food global priority, or it could take months!   A Global flat rate priority envelope (up to 4 lbs) costs $11.95 (you can fit alot in there, and use alot of tape).   A Global flat rate priority box costs $38.95 (I think it's up to 70 lbs).  For a 5-lb. Global priority box it's about $34, so the flat rate box is better....