Last reviewed: 2026-09-17
Pakistan Post International Parcels: Air and Surface Booking Guide
A plain guide to sending parcels abroad with Pakistan Post: choosing air or surface, filling in customs forms and booking at the GPO.
Pakistan Post sends parcels to Universal Postal Union (UPU) member countries. You can choose between Air Parcel and Surface Parcel. Every parcel sent abroad needs a customs form (a CN22 sticker for items under 2 kg, or a CN23 form for parcels over 2 kg). You book at the Foreign Post counter at a GPO.
Air Parcel vs Surface Parcel: Which to Choose
Pakistan Post offers two ways to send parcels abroad. The choice is between speed and cost:
Air parcels go by plane, so they are usually faster. They suit gifts, urgent samples and goods that need to arrive soon. Ask at the counter for the price.
Surface parcels go by land or sea. They usually take much longer but can cost less. They suit books, household items and other things that are not urgent.
Customs Forms: CN22 and CN23
Customs in the destination country can check every parcel. Wrong paperwork can mean your parcel is held or sent back. Fill in the right form before you go to the counter:
The CN22 is a small sticker that goes on the outside of the parcel. It is for items under 2 kg worth less than 300 SDR (Special Drawing Rights). Write what is inside, the weight and the value, and tick whether it is a gift, documents, a sample or a return.
The CN23 is a fuller customs form for parcels over 2 kg. Fill in each item, where it was made, the receiver’s phone number and the value. Put the finished form in a clear plastic pouch stuck to the front of the parcel.
How to Book at the GPO, Step by Step
Parcels going abroad are booked at General Post Offices (GPOs) and other large post offices with a Foreign Post counter:
Use a strong box. Wrap and tape your items well. Write the address clearly in English with a permanent marker.
Ask the counter whether they need to see the contents before you seal the parcel. It is safer to bring it open, with tape ready.
The clerk weighs the parcel, checks the weight limit for the country and checks your CN22 or CN23 form. They may ask for your CNIC.
Pay at the counter and get your booking receipt. It shows your 13-character tracking number (for example, CP123456789PK).
Items You Usually Cannot Send Abroad
We could not confirm Pakistan Post’s full list, so ask at the counter. Items like these are usually not allowed:
- Cash and coins
- Gold, precious stones and jewellery
- Loose lithium batteries and power banks
- Sprays, perfumes and liquids that can catch fire
- Food that can go off, without the right permits
- Medicines without the right approval
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about sending parcels abroad, air or surface, and customs.
How do I send a parcel abroad with Pakistan Post?
Pack your items in a strong box, fill in the right customs form (CN22 or CN23) and take the parcel to the Foreign Post counter at a General Post Office (GPO). Staff weigh it and tell you the price. Bring your CNIC in case it is needed.
What is the difference between air and surface parcels?
Pakistan Post accepts both. Air parcels go by plane and are usually faster. Surface parcels go by land or sea and usually take longer. Ask at the GPO for the price and time of each for your country.
When do I use a CN22 form instead of a CN23 form?
Use a CN22 sticker for items under 2 kg, or worth under 300 SDR. Parcels over 2 kg need a full CN23 form, placed in a clear plastic pouch stuck to the parcel.
What is the heaviest parcel I can send abroad?
It depends on the country you are sending to. Ask at the GPO Foreign Post counter for the limit for your destination.
Can I track a parcel sent abroad?
Registered items and parcels sent abroad usually get a 13-character tracking code, such as one starting with CP or EE. You can check it on the Pakistan Post tracking website and on the postal website of the destination country.