The lowdown on sending packages to Cyprus

Cyprus gained independence from the UK in 1961, but ties between the two countries remain strong to this day. As the largest island in the Mediterranean, it serves as a holiday hotspot to sun-seeking Brits. As well as the holidaymakers who occupy the popular coastal resorts throughout the summer months, around 50,000 people have left UK shores to set up home in Cyprus - most opting to live in the Paphos region.

With this in mind, it's understandable that Brits may want to send packages to family members or customers in Cyprus. Before they do, though, there are a number of things to consider.

Part of the EU

Cyprus' status as a member of the European Union (EU) makes it relatively easy for people to send items to and from the UK, as so many packages and letters cross its borders every year. The most obvious benefit here is that goods entering the country from the UK (or any other EU member nation) don't require official customs documentation.

Still, as is the case with any parcel being sent across international borders, it's important that the destination country's name is clearly printed, in capital letters, as the last line of the address on the front of the package. It should be written in the language of the sender's country.

Restrictions

Like most countries, Cyprus has certain rules and regulations governing the types of items that can be sent across its borders. In the interests of safety and security, these should always be respected.

Cyprus' prohibited list contains many of the same items that are found in other countries' restriction guides. The obvious examples here are:

• Live animals
• Firearms, ammunition and explosives
• Weapons
• Human remains

Illegal items and substances such as certain drugs and counterfeit currency are also present on the list, just as they are in the rest of the EU.

Specific items

Cyprus is particularly hot on counterfeit goods, and this covers everything from pirated media and fake electronics to replica clothing and perfumes. Further, the country has prohibited sending pornographic materials, both physical and digital.

Safely packaged

With just over 2,000 miles between the capitals of the UK and Cyprus - London and Nicosia respectively - parcels have a long way to travel before reaching their recipients. As such, senders should always ensure they protect their goods securely by using a sufficient amount of tape and padding. Addresses should also be written clearly and in the appropriate format to minimise the chances of confusion.

Given the close relationship enjoyed by the UK and Cyprus, sending mail between the countries tends to be a trouble-free process - just be sure to abide by the handful of rules that are in place and everything should go smoothly.