Imagine your best friend has moved to Lyon for work… and while cleaning, you find her favorite book forgotten on your shelf. Or maybe you run an online store, and for the first time, a French customer has trusted you to deliver their order. Now what?
Sending a parcel to France from Spain is much easier than it seems, but there are some key points worth knowing to make sure everything goes smoothly the first time. In this guide, we explain step by step how to do it, how much it costs, how long it takes, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What to keep in mind before sending a parcel to France
Although France is part of the European Union (EU), meaning there are no customs checks or especially complex procedures, it’s important not to be complacent.
Before preparing your shipment:
- Check that your items are allowed. Some items are restricted, such as aerosols, loose lithium batteries, flammable liquids, perfumes, or certain perishable foods.
- Pack your parcel properly. Use a sturdy box with enough cushioning (paper, bubble wrap, foam) to protect the contents. Avoid empty spaces or excessive weight.
- Label your parcel clearly. Include the recipient’s full name, complete address (including postal code and country), and, if possible, a contact phone number.
Options and methods for sending a parcel to France
There are several ways to send an international shipment. It all depends on your budget, urgency, and the type of service you prefer.
- Private courier companies with pick-up points or lockers: Ideal if you want speed, detailed tracking, and options like weekend delivery or specific time slots. They are also very useful when the recipient is not usually at home. In France, for example, Parcel Shops or convenience points are widespread.
- National postal services: Offer competitive rates and standard or express services.
How much does it cost to send a parcel to France?
The price of sending a parcel to France varies depending on several factors:
- Weight and size of the parcel
- Origin and destination city
- Type of service (urgent, standard, home pick-up, delivery to a point)
- Extra services (insurance, proof of receipt, signature on delivery, etc.)
Indicative examples:
- 2 kg parcel: from €8 to €15
- 10 kg parcel: from €20 to €35
- 20 kg parcel: from €35 to €50
How long does it take for a parcel to arrive from Spain to France?
France is a nearby destination, so delivery times are generally quite fast. In general:
- Standard service: 2 to 5 business days
- Express or urgent service: 24 to 48 hours
Delivery times depend on the destination area. Major cities like Paris, Marseille, or Lyon usually receive parcels sooner than rural areas or more remote towns. Other factors include the time of year (Christmas, sales, etc.) or possible logistical issues.
Tips for sending a parcel to France cheaply
If your priority is to save on shipping without compromising quality, take note of these tips:
- Compare prices: Use online tools to check different rates and services.
- Adjust size and weight: A more compact parcel can save you several euros.
- Plan ahead: Avoid urgent services if they’re not necessary.
- Deliver to a pick-up point: Often cheaper than home collection.
- Reuse materials: Clean, sturdy boxes from previous shipments can work perfectly.
How to track a parcel sent to France
One of the main advantages of using professional services is that you can track your shipment at all times. Usually, you will receive a tracking code that you can enter on the logistics provider’s website.
What this code allows you to do:
- See the current status of your parcel
- Check estimated delivery dates
- Receive alerts if there’s a problem or change
- Know if there were failed delivery attempts
Some companies even offer apps or notifications via WhatsApp or email. It’s a very convenient way to make sure everything is going smoothly.
Why consider GLS for your shipments to France
GLS deserves a special mention, especially if you’re looking for a balance of speed, reliability, and convenience.
GLS is widely used for shipments within Europe, and France is one of its key destinations. Its advantages include:
- Fast delivery: 2 to 4 business days for most French destinations
- Extensive network of pick-up points: Parcel Shops or lockers throughout France, allowing you to drop off or pick up parcels without worrying about being home.
- Detailed real-time tracking, even in the destination country’s language
Additionally, they offer extra services such as easy returns, extended insurance, or home pick-up. They are worth considering if you ship frequently or want a complete service.