Battery rules matter most
The single biggest rule for electronics is lithium batteries. A device with its battery installed may be accepted under specific air-transport and carrier conditions; this is not automatic. Loose batteries, power banks, damaged batteries and recalled devices face stricter restrictions. Tell us the model, battery condition and whether any spare battery is included.
Sending a device to the United States? Use our USA electronics and battery checklist for the destination-specific customs and carrier questions.
Pack devices well — original box or bubble wrap, snug in the carton — because couriers charge on volumetric weight, and a well-packed small box is cheaper and safer than a loose big one.
Customs duty on electronics
Most countries may charge import duty and tax on electronics. The amount depends on the product, origin, value and destination. Declare the real value honestly — under-declaring risks penalties and delays. For India, use our phones and electronics customs checklist; for other destinations, check the relevant duty guide.
For a genuine gift, some countries allow a small duty-free threshold; for anything commercial there is usually no allowance. If you are shipping devices for a business, a corporate account handles the paperwork and can lower the landed cost.