Shipping prescription drugs in Europe and internationally
Are you living abroad and are not sure if you can ship prescription drugs or other types of pharmaceutical products in Europe? Keep reading and learn more about regulations on shipping prescription drugs and medicines via courier and find out our tips on how to safely ship over-the-counter drugs domestically or internationally.
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BEFORE SHIPPING
Shipping prescription drugs internationally
When ordering the shipping of pills and medicines or an EpiPen abroad via courier services, there is some information that you may have to provide us with:
- The type of drugs and the amount you want to send.
- Specify if they require a prescription and if they contain substances that cause addiction.
- Check if the drugs you want to send or the substances they are based on are approved in the country of delivery.
HOW TO SHIP
Shipping prescription drugs with courier services
Transportation solutions to consider depending on the size and time-sensitivity of your shipment:
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*Please have in mind that some courier companies may prescription drugs in the list of prohibited items. For any clarifications, please contact our team of specialists via chat.
HOW TO PACK
Packing guide for shipping prescription drugs
How to ship pills or an EpiPen abroad? If you decided to ship prescription drugs to someone for personal use, remember to pack them properly in order to avoid damages.
- Start by wrapping them in bubble wrap. Cover the whole original package and secure the wrap with tape. You can also place the box in a plastic or ziplock bag.
- Put the wrapped items in the box. Place the medication in the box and surround it with cushioning materials or other items that you wish to ship (such as clothes).
- Seal the box and label it, if needed.
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FAQs on shipping prescription drugs
Can I ship prescription drugs with every courier company?
It is important to note that not all courier companies will ship prescription drugs internationally. For example, DHL, UPS and TNT will not ship packages that have prescription drugs within the content. Each courier has specific rules and requirements for different shipments, so we recommend checking this further with the designated courier for your route. Alternatively, you can reach us by chat, phone or email before shipping to discuss your options further.
Can you ship prescription drugs in the EU and internationally via courier?
There may be some restrictions regarding shipping prescription drugs in certain countries, however, many people send them regularly. We recommend checking the local rules regarding your exact case both in the pick-up and the destination country. Keep in mind that as a sender, you are responsible for any extra costs incurred due to shipping medicine.
Can I ship medicines via courier in the US?
In the US, only FDA approved vendors and distributors with valid licenses can ship and transport prescription drugs. Authorised persons, like doctors, can ship prescription drugs and some patients can choose to have their prescribed medicines shipped by courier. However, please check the regulations for every state and be aware that certain products can be subjected to special limitations.
Can I ship over-the-counter medicine via courier?
Shipping over the counter medicines by mail or courier is not illegal and, therefore, many people decide to ship this type of pills and medicines over the post every day. However, due to their delicate nature, many couriers decide to include these goods in the list of restricted items to ship.
Can I travel abroad carrying prescription medicine?
You can travel with prescription drugs within the EU if you have a prescription signed by a doctor from an EU country. If the drug is not available in the country you are travelling to, you can ask your doctor for a cross-border prescription.
How to safely protect prescription drugs for transport?
When preparing pills and other prescription drugs for transport, do it in an environment protected from bacteria. Your package will be transported together with other parcels, containing all sorts of goods. And, simple vans or truck used for transporting standard packages are not equipped for items that need special conditions. Check if the medicines need some special transport conditions before shipping.
Check your route and start your order
Take into consideration these guidelines when shipping prescription drugs. Nevertheless, please consider that following them does not guarantee that the courier company will transport your package without restriction. In case you decide to ship medicines, Eurosender will not be held responsible for any damages caused by the transportation of your shipment.