The lowdown on sending parcels to Denmark

With more than 150,000 British tourists crossing its borders every year, Denmark's status as a holiday hotspot might come as a bit of a surprise to some. It actually makes a lot of sense when you think about it, though. Not only is the Nordic country full of cultural gems, its capital, Copenhagen, is less than 600 miles from London - and the cheap flights on offer make it seem even closer.

This proximity also makes Denmark a popular destination for UK citizens in search of a more permanent change of scenery. It's understandable, then, that people may want to send parcels there. For those who do, it's worth considering the following first.

An EU member

After founding the European Free Trade Association with the UK in 1960, Denmark went on to join the European Economic Community (EEC) just 13 years later. This soon evolved into what we now know as the European Union - or the EU.

Denmark's affiliation with the EU means there are no unfamiliar restrictions affecting trade from other member countries. What's more, senders aren't even required to provide full customs documentation, meaning most packages pass through to their recipients without any fuss. That's not to say the usual rules shouldn't be considered, though.

Prohibited items

As is the case with most other EU countries, Denmark does not welcome firearms across its borders. Other weapons, such as knives, swords and daggers, are also - understandably - prohibited. These obvious items are accompanied by live plants and animals, as well as radioactive materials.

Some of the more interesting items people should refrain from sending to Denmark include ignition lighters and, rather oddly, playing cards. Finely cut tobacco is also forbidden when attached to cigarette paper.

Medicines can be sent to the country, but only if their total value falls below 100 Danish kroner. The items must also be recognisable by Danish laboratories and pharmacists.

Final thoughts

While the UK is relatively close to Denmark, senders should still take a couple of precautions to ensure their parcels arrive safely and with minimal hassle. Firstly, as well as the address being written clearly on the front, the destination country should be added at the end, in capital letters and in the language of the sending country.

At risk of stating the obvious, the item should also be packaged thoroughly with robust yet light materials. Be sure to use enough tape to reinforce any possible weak points too.