Sending letters and documents overseas by courier

It’s easy to send a letter or document overseas by courier. For fast and efficient worldwide delivery of an important letter or document, International Express Courier and International Courier are ideal. Use our handy Rate Finder to select the best service for your needs and take a look at the sending tips below.

How to package your letter or document

You can order an International Courier bag:

  • Online - the easiest and most efficient way to order.
  • By calling our Product Ordering Centre on 0800 501 701.

If your item is ready to send now, take it to your local NZ Post store or a selected New Zealand Post retail outlet (excluding stamp resellers).

How to send your letter or document

Addressing your item

Make sure your item gets to its international destination by having the address printed clearly, and the destination address completed entirely in English (if you wish, write the destination address in the language of the destination country elsewhere on the letter or document). Be sure to include all relevant information - suburb, town or city, state, country and postcode/zip code - to ensure your item gets to the right place at the right time. Make sure you include the correct consignment note and Customs documentation.

When will your letter or document get there?

Items sent by International Express Courier have a target delivery time of 1-5 working days* and those sent by International Courier have a target delivery time of 2-6 working days*. Our Tracking system gives you added visibility by tracking key events from pick up or lodgement of an item in New Zealand to arrival at its destination. A signature is also collected on delivery.

What can’t I send?

Many items are prohibited to send overseas, and while they may at first appear harmless, under certain circumstances they can become dangerous.

Air pressure or temperature changes can affect goods and cause Prohibited items to leak, ignite or explode. If you send a Prohibited item, you’ll be liable for any damage or costs caused by the item. And remember, not all Prohibited items are obvious - coins, currency or precious metals for instance are all prohibited.

Many international destinations have extra restrictions on items. If you are unsure about any item, please contact our Customer Care Centre, ask at your local NZ Post store, at selected New Zealand Post retail outlets (excluding stamp resellers), or check out our list of Prohibited and restricted items.

Need extra assistance?

If you need any further help, contact our Customer Care Centre, visit your local PostShop or a selected New Zealand Post retail outlet (excluding stamp resellers).

*You can expect that items will usually arrive at their destination within the timeframe specified for each service. Because New Zealand Post does not directly control all parts of the delivery chain, we cannot guarantee that your item will always reach its destination within the target delivery times. Delivery to areas outside major cities, or where your item is dutiable or held in Customs, may take longer.