Sending a package from the USA to Sri Lanka is simpler than you think. Sri Lanka is well-connected globally, with international courier services such as FedEx, UPS, USPS, etc., providing service to major destinations like Colombo, Kotte, Galle, and more.
Whether you are sending small electronics, clothes, paper, or personal items, the main thing is to pick the right courier, know about the customs demands, and also organize the package properly. But Shipixy makes all of that easy, from getting a quote instantly to tracking your shipment from door to door. This guide covers everything you need to know before sending your parcel to Sri Lanka.
Best Couriers to Ship to Sri Lanka
There are a number of reliable international couriers that provide services from the USA to Sri Lanka. Each of them will have its own pros and cons as per your budget, package size, and the timely requirement of delivery. Let's take a look at the 3 most popular choices.
UPS Shipping to Sri Lanka
For business shipments and larger items, UPS Worldwide Expedited and UPS Worldwide Saver are great choices. UPS customs brokerage is done directly, reducing the risk of clearance delays. The delivery time is 3-7 business days, and packages up to 150 lbs are accepted.
USPS Shipping to Sri Lanka
USPS is the cheapest for smaller items. Priority Mail International delivers in 6 to 10 business days; Priority Mail Express International in 3 to 5 business days. The speed of the last mile depends on the destination city as USPS passes to Sri Lanka Post for final mile delivery.
FedEx Shipping to Sri Lanka
FedEx International Priority ships within 3-6 business days. FedEx International Economy is slower with a delivery time of 10 to 20 business days, but inexpensive. FedEx offers excellent tracking for customers' clearance. It is ideal for time-critical or valuable items.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship to Sri Lanka?
Specific package costs vary based on package weight, size, and delivery time. Economy postal rates are around $11 for small packages less than 0.5 kg. There are mid-size packages of 4.5kg or so, which cost $50-$95, depending on the courier.
For larger quantities of 20kg or more, shipment costs range from $220 to $560 for express options. To reduce expenses, select a slower delivery option, bundle several items in a single box, or order from Shipixy using our shipping calculator and get shipping discounts automatically.
How Long Does It Take to Deliver a Parcel to Sri Lanka?
FedEx International Priority and Express services have a 3-6 business day delivery time. Priority Mail International takes 6-10 business days on average. Economy postal service options usually take 14-25 business days.
These timelines are for transit only, if documents are missing, it can take 2-4 additional days to clear customs. Couriers that have customs brokerage services, such as FedEx or UPS, will generally provide quicker overall delivery times.
Sri Lanka Customs and Regulations
Sri Lanka has no de minimis exemption. However, duties and taxes apply to all incoming packages regardless of value. The standard VAT rate is 15% on the customs value of declared goods, shipping value, and insurance value. You'll need to attach an exact statement for each item, its value, quantity, and purpose, in addition to proof of purchase and complete contact details of the recipient.
Sri Lanka imposes extra import restrictions on food, cosmetics, plants, animals, animal products, foreign currency, bottled water, ceramic products, and coconut products. To prevent border delays, providing the accurate value and a clear item description is best.
What Items Cannot Be Shipped to Sri Lanka?
- Alcohol and tobacco, including e-cigarettes
- Firearms, ammunition, and replicas of weapons
- Explosives, fireworks, gunpowder
- Prescription medications and non-FDA-approved medical devices
- Unlicensed drugs and controlled substances
- Live or dead animals and insects
- Food and farm products that can spoil quickly
- Plants, seeds, and untreated wood
- Radioactive, toxic, and poisonous materials
- Any material that may contain infectious material or laboratory specimens
- Any items containing gasoline, diesel, or fuel
- Pesticides, herbicides, fungicides
- Foreign Currency and fake goods
- Body armor, police, and military equipment
- Stun guns, tear gas, and pepper spray
- Hoverboards and damaged batteries
- Ivory, coral, and threatened species products.
- Lottery tickets
If in any doubt, please refer to the Sri Lanka customs website or reach out to Shipixy support team before placing a booking.
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