Wednesday 22 August, 2007

Australia Post is reminding people wishing to send Christmas presents to family and friends overseas not to miss the boat, with final deadlines fast approaching for postage via sea mail.

Sea mail offers substantial savings for customers, but Australia Post spokesperson Don Elgin said people need to plan ahead to take advantage of its prices.

“If you intend to send Christmas presents to friends and family overseas, you’ll need to post them soon, to beat the approaching deadlines and take advantage of the cheaper postage cost of sea mail,” Don said.

The sea mail closing date for gifts being sent to the United Kingdom is 28 September, while most of mainland Europe is 5 October. Parcels to the USA being sent via sea mail should be posted before 12 October. There is no sea mail service to Asia Pacific countries.

“Sea mail parcels set sail from Sydney, so allow extra time when sending parcels from interstate or outside the metropolitan area,” said Don.

Customers should remember that there are certain dangerous and prohibited items that must not be sent through the mail. Staff at Australia Post outlets can advise customers on restrictions for dangerous goods and give tips on the most secure packaging.

To expedite delivery, customers should always address items clearly, complete the appropriate customs forms and include a return address. Identification is required when lodging sea mail items weighing over 500g.

To find out more about your international service options, enquire at your local Post outlet or call the Customer Contact Centre on 13 13 18.

A full list of pre-Christmas closing dates for sea mail is available at Australia Post outlets and online (pdf, 149.1kb).

For further information, please contact:

Australia Post – Corporate Public Affairs (03) 9204 5362

• Ten Handy Hints for using seamail