24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
24×7 – 365 Days | [email protected] |
Sending a parcel from New Zealand to India is often a challenging and time-consuming process, but it should be straightforward and easy. Whether you’re sending gifts to family, returning home with personal goods, or running a small business that exports to India, understanding the courier process ensures your parcel arrives safely, on time, and without unexpected costs.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of sending a courier from New Zealand to India—from getting a quote to final delivery at your recipient’s doorstep. You’ll learn about pricing factors, customs requirements, prohibited items, packing guidelines, and delivery timelines, so you can ship with peace of mind.
Choosing the right courier service to send parcels from New Zealand to India makes all the difference between a smooth delivery and a worst experience. When you work with a trusted, India-specialised courier provider, you benefit from:
Reliable delivery networks that ensure your parcel reaches even remote towns and cities across India, from metro hubs like Mumbai and Delhi to smaller destinations in regional areas.
Expert customs handling that navigates New Zealand export regulations and Indian import rules, reducing the risk of delays, rejections, or unexpected fees.
Transparent pricing with no hidden charges, so you know exactly what you’re paying upfront—including freight, customs duties, and any additional service fees.
Real-time tracking that keeps you informed at every stage, from pickup in New Zealand to final delivery in India, giving you and your recipient peace of mind.
Secure packaging advice customized to international shipping standards, ensuring fragile items, electronics, documents, and gifts arrive intact.
Responsive customer support that answers your questions promptly, helps with documentation, and resolves any issues quickly and professionally.
Flexible service options, including express delivery for urgent shipments and economy services for cost-conscious senders, let you choose the right balance of speed and affordability.
A trusted courier company takes the guesswork out of international shipping, handling the complex logistics so you can focus on what matters—staying connected with loved ones or growing your business.
Couriers To India is a specialist courier service dedicated exclusively to shipments between New Zealand and India. With 12+ years of experience in this industry, we understand the unique challenges, customs requirements, and delivery expectations that come with cross-border shipping.
Unlike general international couriers, we focus solely on the New Zealand to India route. This specialisation means we’ve built strong partnerships with customs brokers, freight networks, and last-mile delivery providers throughout India.
We know the documentation requirements inside out, understand regional delivery nuances, and can navigate Indian customs regulations efficiently.
Our team is familiar with common questions from the Indian migrants in New Zealand—whether you’re sending Diwali gifts, wedding parcels, or personal effects for family back home. We’ve handled thousands of shipments to every major Indian city, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, and Ahmedabad, as well as smaller towns and rural areas.
Couriers to India offer both express and economy courier services to suit your timeline and budget. Express shipments reach major Indian cities within 3–5 business days, while economy options provide a cost-effective solution with delivery in 7–12 business days.
Our pricing is transparent and competitive. You’ll receive an instant online quote with no hidden fees, and our volumetric weight calculations are clearly explained. We also offer flexible payment options and can accommodate both one-off shipments and regular business accounts.
Customs clearance is often the most stressful part of international shipping. Our experienced team handles all customs documentation and liaises with Indian customs authorities on your behalf. We’ll guide you through the required paperwork, calculate applicable duties and taxes, and keep you updated if any additional information is needed.
You’ll have access to dedicated customer support via phone, email, and chat. Whether you need help completing your commercial invoice, understanding India’s import restrictions, or tracking down a delayed parcel, our team responds promptly with clear, helpful answers.
We also provide doorstep pickup across New Zealand—from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin, and beyond—making the entire shipping process convenient and stress-free.
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Understanding how courier costs are calculated helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. International shipping prices depend on several factors, with weight and dimensions being the primary cost drivers.
Courier companies calculate shipping charges based on whichever is greater: the actual weight of your parcel or its volumetric (dimensional) weight. This prevents large, lightweight parcels from taking up valuable cargo space without appropriate charges.
Actual weight is simply what your parcel weighs on a scale, measured in kilograms.
Volumetric weight accounts for the space your parcel occupies. Even if your box is light, if it’s bulky, you’ll be charged based on volumetric weight.
Airlines and freight carriers have limited space, so they need to balance weight and volume efficiently. A large box filled with pillows might weigh only 2kg, but it takes up as much space as a 10kg box of books. Volumetric pricing ensures fair charges based on space used.
The speed you choose significantly impacts cost:
Express courier services offer the fastest delivery, typically 3–5 business days to major Indian cities. These shipments are prioritised through customs and transported on direct or faster flight routes. Express is ideal for urgent documents, time-sensitive gifts, or business shipments where speed justifies the premium cost.
Economy courier services provide a more affordable option with delivery in 7–12 business days. Your parcel still travels by air but may take a less direct route or wait for consolidation with other shipments. Economy is perfect for non-urgent personal items, gifts sent well ahead of occasions, or bulk shipments where cost savings matter more than speed.
Air freight options are available for larger shipments, multiple boxes, or commercial cargo. These are priced differently and may require additional handling and documentation.
Beyond base freight charges, several other costs may apply:
Customs duties and taxes are levied by Indian customs based on the declared value and type of goods. Most personal items under a certain value threshold may qualify for duty exemptions, but commercial goods and high-value items typically attract GST and customs duty. Your courier company will provide estimates, and the recipient may need to pay these charges before delivery.
Insurance is optional but highly recommended for valuable or fragile items. Insurance protects against loss, damage, or theft during transit. Costs are typically calculated as a small percentage of the declared item value.
Fuel surcharges may apply depending on global fuel prices and airline policies. These are usually included in your quote.
Remote area delivery fees apply if your recipient lives outside major metro areas. Delivery to rural towns or hard-to-reach locations may incur an additional charge.
Customs clearance fees cover the administrative work involved in processing your shipment through Indian customs, including documentation, broker fees, and compliance checks.
Volumetric weight is calculated using this formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 5000
Example:
You’re sending a box that measures 50cm × 40cm × 30cm, and it weighs 8kg.
In this example, even though your parcel only weighs 8kg, you’ll be charged based on 12kg because of its size.
To reduce costs, use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items, and avoid excessive packaging or empty space inside the box.
[Calculate Your Shipping Cost]
Sending a parcel internationally involves several important steps. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your shipment is processed smoothly and arrives safely.
Before you send anything, get an accurate price estimate using an online quote calculator. This helps you compare service options and budget appropriately.
Information Needed (Weight, Dimensions, Contents)
To generate a quote, you’ll need to provide:
The quote tool will calculate both actual and volumetric weight and show you available service options with delivery timeframes and costs. You can adjust service type (express vs economy) to see what the difference is and how it affects pricing.
Make sure your measurements are accurate. Incorrect dimensions can lead to billing adjustments later if the courier company re-measures your parcel.
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Not everything can be sent internationally. Both New Zealand and India have strict rules about what can cross borders. Sending prohibited items can result in your parcel being seized, returned, or destroyed, and you may face fines.
New Zealand Export Restrictions
New Zealand Customs regulates what can leave the country. Generally prohibited items include:
Always check with New Zealand Customs or your courier provider if you’re unsure whether your item can be exported.
India Import Restrictions (Customs + DGFT Rules)
Indian customs and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) maintain a comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted imports. Commonly prohibited items include:
Restricted items that may require special permits or approvals include:
If you’re sending gifts or personal items, most clothing, books, handicrafts, toys, and household goods are generally allowed. Always declare contents accurately and honestly.
Proper documentation is essential for customs clearance. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the most common cause of shipping delays.
Commercial Invoice / Pro Forma Invoice
Every international shipment needs a detailed invoice that describes the contents and their value. Even if you’re sending a gift, you must complete this document.
Your invoice should include:
For non-commercial shipments, mark the invoice “For Customs Purposes Only” or “Pro Forma Invoice.”
Be honest about item values. Undervaluing goods to avoid customs duties is illegal and can result in fines, confiscation, and future shipping bans.
KYC for India Delivery
India requires Know Your Customer (KYC) documentation for all imports. Your recipient in India will need to provide:
In some cases, especially for high-value or commercial shipments, additional documents like Import Export Code (IEC), GST registration, or business registration may be required.
Your courier company will usually collect these documents from the recipient once the shipment reaches India, but gathering them in advance speeds up clearance.
Good packaging protects your items during transit and reduces the risk of damage. International moving passes through multiple hands, travels on trucks and planes, and may experience temperature and pressure changes.
Packaging Guidelines for Fragile, Electronics & High-Value Items
Use a sturdy box: Choose a new, strong corrugated cardboard box appropriate for the weight of your items. Avoid used boxes that are worn, torn, or previously damaged.
For fragile items: Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper. Use at least 5–7cm of cushioning material on all sides of the box. Fill any space with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or air pillows to prevent items from shifting. Mark the box clearly with “FRAGILE” and “HANDLE WITH CARE” labels.
For electronics: Remove batteries if possible (lithium batteries have shipping restrictions). Wrap devices in anti-static bubble wrap and place them in their original packaging if available. Include manuals and accessories separately, well-protected. Add silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
For high-value items: Use discreet packaging without brand names or logos that indicate valuable contents. Consider double-boxing (placing one box inside a larger box with padding in between). Always purchase insurance.
For liquids and powders: Even if permitted, these items must be sealed in leak-proof containers, individually bagged, and packed with absorbent material. Many couriers restrict or prohibit liquids entirely, so check first.
For clothing and fabrics: Fold neatly, place in sealed plastic bags to protect from moisture, and pack tightly to minimize box size and reduce volumetric weight.
For documents: Use a rigid envelope or document box to prevent bending. Consider waterproof packaging.
Labelling Checklist
Proper labelling ensures your parcel reaches the right destination and is handled appropriately:
Use a waterproof marker or printed labels. Handwritten labels should be neat and legible. If the address is illegible, your parcel could be delayed or returned.
Once your parcel is packed and labelled, you need to hand it over to the courier company.
Doorstep Pickup
Most courier services offer free or low-cost pickup from your home or office anywhere in New Zealand. This is the most convenient option—simply book a pickup time online or by phone, and a courier driver will collect your parcel from your doorstep.
Pickup is available in all major cities, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin, Palmerston North, Napier, Rotorua, and New Plymouth, as well as many smaller towns.
When scheduling pickup:
If you’re not available during the pickup time, the driver may leave a note and attempt pickup another day, or you’ll need to drop off the parcel yourself.
Self-Drop Options
If you prefer, you can drop your parcel at a Courier’s office. This option is useful if you need to send your parcel immediately or outside standard pickup hours.
Check with your courier provider for drop-off locations near you. Some companies partner with retail stores, post offices, or logistics centres.
When dropping off:
Once your parcel is in transit, you can monitor its progress using the tracking number provided at booking or pickup.
Understanding Tracking Status
Typical tracking updates include:
Tracking updates may not be real-time. There can be gaps of several hours or even a day between scans, especially during international transit and customs processing.
Handling Delays / Customs Queries
If your tracking shows no movement for several days or displays a customs hold, don’t panic. Common reasons include:
If customs contacts you or your recipient for additional information, respond promptly with accurate details. Your courier company can liaise with customs on your behalf if issues arise.
[Track Your Parcel]
Every international shipment coming to india must pass through customs clearance. This is where officials verify that your parcel complies with import laws and assess any applicable duties and taxes.
Duties, Taxes & Assessments
Indian customs charges duties based on:
Customs Duty is calculated as a percentage of the item’s value (usually 10% to 40% depending on the category).
GST (Goods and Services Tax) is applied on top of the customs duty, typically at 18% or 28% depending on the item.
Example: You send a mobile phone worth NZD $600 to India.
Small gifts may qualify for duty exemptions under certain value thresholds, but rules change frequently. Your courier company or customs broker will calculate the exact charges and inform the recipient.
Duties are typically paid by the recipient before delivery, though some senders choose to pre-pay or include a duty allowance.
Required Recipient Documents
For customs clearance, the recipient must provide:
Your courier company will contact the recipient with instructions. Clearance usually takes 1–3 business days once all documents are submitted.
After customs clearance, your parcel enters the local delivery network in India.
Delivery Attempts
The courier partner will attempt delivery to the recipient’s address. Most companies make 2–3 delivery attempts if the recipient is unavailable.
The driver will:
If the recipient is not available, the driver leaves a note or sends an SMS with instructions to reschedule delivery or collect from the local depot.
Proof of Delivery (POD)
Once delivered, the recipient signs a delivery receipt. This Proof of Delivery (POD) is uploaded to the tracking system, confirming the shipment is complete.
You can request a copy of the POD from your courier company if needed for records or business purposes. The POD includes:
If there’s a dispute about delivery (recipient claims non-receipt), the POD serves as evidence.
Despite best efforts, sometimes things go wrong. Parcels can be damaged, lost, or delayed. This is where insurance and claims processes come into play.
Damage Claim Steps
If your recipient receives a damaged parcel:
If you purchased insurance, the claim is processed against the insured value. Without insurance, liability is typically limited to a small amount per kilogram.
Lost Parcel Claim Steps
If tracking shows no updates for an extended period, or the parcel is confirmed lost:
Always purchase insurance for valuable items. Standard carrier liability rarely covers the full value of goods.
[Get Help with Your Shipment]
Delivery time depends on the service level you choose and the destination city in India.
Express services deliver to major Indian metros in 3–5 business days.
Express is ideal for urgent documents, time-sensitive gifts, or business shipments where speed is critical. Parcels are prioritised at customs and transported on the fastest available flight routes.
Economy services deliver in 7–12 business days.
Economy services are cost-effective for non-urgent shipments. Parcels may wait for consolidation with other shipments and take less direct routing, but still travel by air.
Delivery times can be longer during peak periods:
Plan and book early if sending parcels for festivals, birthdays, or special occasions. For guaranteed arrival by a specific date, choose express services and add a buffer of a few extra days.
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Courier costs vary based on weight, dimensions, service type, and destination. Here’s a general guide to help you budget.
These are approximate cost ranges in NZD for economy and express services. Actual prices depend on your specific parcel dimensions and destination.
500g (documents, small items):
1kg (clothing, books, small gifts):
2kg (larger gifts, multiple items):
5kg (clothing bundle, electronics):
10kg (large parcel, multiple items):
20kg (bulk shipment, personal effects):
These prices typically include base freight and standard handling. Customs duties, insurance, remote area fees, and other charges are additional.
Factors that increase cost:
Factors that reduce cost:
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Understanding what’s allowed helps you avoid shipment rejections, delays, and fines.
Most personal and commercial items can be sent to India, including:
Always declare items honestly and accurately on your customs invoice.
These items cannot be sent to India under any circumstances:
Counterfeit currency — Fake money.
Some items can be sent but require special permits, licences, or approvals:
If you’re unsure whether your item is allowed, contact your courier company or check with Indian Customs before shipping.
[Speak to Our Team About Your Shipment]
Sending a parcel from New Zealand to India is straightforward when you follow the right steps and work with a trusted courier partner. From accurate documentation and proper packaging to choosing the right service level and understanding customs requirements, every detail matters in ensuring your shipment arrives safely and on time.
Whether you’re sending gifts to loved ones, shipping personal goods, or managing business exports, having a reliable courier service makes all the difference. With transparent pricing, real-time tracking, expert customs handling, and responsive customer support, you can send your parcel with confidence.
Ready to send your parcel? Get an instant, transparent quote in seconds. Simply enter your parcel details, destination, and preferred delivery speed to see accurate pricing with no hidden fees.
Our online quote tool shows you both express and economy options, compares delivery times, and calculates all costs upfront, including freight charges. You can book your shipment immediately or save your quote for later.
Have questions about customs, documentation, or what you can send? Our India-specialist courier team is here to help. We’ll answer your questions, guide you through the shipping process, and ensure your parcel is packed and documented correctly.
Whether you need advice on prohibited items, help calculating duties, or assistance with tracking, our friendly customer support team responds quickly with clear, helpful information.
Call us today or chat with our team online to get expert guidance tailored to your shipping needs.
Economy air freight is the most affordable option, taking 7–12 business days. Use compact packaging to reduce weight and avoid remote delivery areas for lower costs. For shipments over 30kg, sea freight is cheaper but takes 4–8 weeks. Always compare quotes before booking.
Food: You can send packaged, non-perishable items. Fresh food, dairy, meat, and homemade items are not allowed.
Medicines: Allowed in small quantities with a doctor’s prescription. Declare properly.
Electronics: Personal electronics can be sent. Lithium batteries require proper packing. Commercial shipments may need BIS certification. Check with your courier if unsure.
Customs duty (10%–40%) and GST (18%–28%) apply based on the item type and value. Gifts may get a lower duty. Charges are paid by the receiver after assessment. High-value electronics or jewellery attract higher duties.
Express: 3–5 business days to major cities; 1–2 extra days for smaller towns.
Economy: 7–12 business days; up to 14 days for remote locations.
Delays may occur during peak seasons or if extra documents are needed. Plan ahead for urgent parcels.
