International Sanctions
Our customers send parcels around the world every day. However, several countries and international organisations, including the United Kingdom and the European Union, impose certain restrictions, also known as sanctions, on what you can send to certain individuals, organisations or countries.
Sanctions can take many forms but are generally aimed at preventing certain goods, services, finance and knowledge being supplied to recipients.
It is your responsibility to check whether the item you wish to send breaks any sanctions rules. If you break the sanctions rules, we can deal with your parcels in several ways including disposing of them. You may also face investigation by the relevant authorities.
Where Can I Find Out More Information?
If you are sending from the United Kingdom, the UK Government's dedicated sanctions website provides useful information, including links to relevant information, published by the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU).
Countries That Are Subject To Sanctions
Over recent years these countries have included those listed below. However, the list changes and you should check a country's status before posting an item:
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Burma (Myanmar), China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Republic of Guinea (Conakry), Guinea- Bissau, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, North Korea, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe.
For countries subject to sanctions, there are specific restrictions in place on sending certain types of goods. These are often goods that can be used for military or dual use purposes. If you are sending items to any sanctioned country, you must make sure you can send the item.
Individuals and organisations that are subject to sanctions.
The UK Government maintains a list of individuals and organisations (for example, banks or utility companies or terrorist organisations) that are subject to sanctions, recognised by the UK (which includes sanctions originating from the EU and the UN).
It is generally prohibited to have dealings with these "designated" individuals and organisations, for example, sending money or goods to them. They are often individuals and organisations linked to, or based in, the countries mentioned above. However, they may be based anywhere in the world, including the UK. You should seek specialist advice if you wish to send items to a designated individual or organisation.
The list of designated individuals and organisations can be found here.
Please note that none of the above is intended as legal advice and is not be an exhaustive description of the sanctions rules that may apply to you, or the items you are posting.