The Cheapest Way to Ship a Package to Italy in 2026

Italy is a popular European shipping destination — from fashion and food to family care packages. While the Italian postal system has improved significantly, customs processing can still be slower than in Northern Europe.

Rate Comparison: US to Italy

Rates from New York to Rome.

Best Options

Small Items (Under 4 lbs)

USPS First-Class Package International at $16–$25. Note: delivery to Italy via First-Class can take 2–4 weeks, longer than to Northern European countries.

Medium (4–15 lbs)

USPS Flat Rate Boxes are best value. Medium Flat Rate at ~$60 holds up to 20 lbs.

For faster delivery, compare UPS/FedEx through atoship.

Heavy (15+ lbs)

UPS or FedEx commercial rates through atoship.

Italian Customs & VAT

VAT (IVA)

Italy charges 22% VAT (IVA) on most imported goods:

• Standard rate: 22%
• Reduced: 10% (food, hotels), 5% (medical), 4% (basic necessities)

Like all EU countries, there's no VAT-free threshold — all imports are taxed.

Customs Duties

• Apply above €150 in declared value
• Typical rates: 5–12% depending on category

Italian Customs Reputation

Italy's customs processing can be unpredictable:

• Northern Italy (Milan, Turin): Generally faster, 3–5 days
• Central/Southern Italy (Rome, Naples): Can take 1–2 weeks
• Packages may be held for detailed inspection
• Recipients may need to visit the customs office with ID to collect taxed packages

Tips for Faster Italian Customs

Use UPS or FedEx for important shipments — they handle customs clearance for you

Declare everything accurately — vague descriptions cause delays

Include recipient's Codice Fiscale (Italian tax code) — speeds up clearance

Use detailed item descriptions — "leather handbag, brown, women's" not just "accessory"

Don't under-declare — Italian customs officers are experienced and may open packages for inspection

Documentation

• Customs Declaration (CN 22/23 for USPS)
• Commercial Invoice (UPS/FedEx)
• Recipient's phone number (important for delivery coordination)
• Codice Fiscale if available (Italian tax identification number)

Italian Address Format

[Name]
[Street] [Number]
[Postal Code] [CITY] [Province Code]
ITALY

Example:

Marco Rossi
Via Roma 42
00100 ROMA RM
ITALY

Italian postal codes are 5 digits (CAP). Province codes are 2 letters.

Delivery in Italy

• Poste Italiane: Handles USPS last-mile delivery. Reliable in cities, can be slow in rural areas.
• SDA/BRT: Italian couriers handling some UPS/FedEx deliveries
• Delivery attempts: 1–2 attempts, then held at local post office
• Intercom culture: Many Italian residences require intercom access — include apartment details in the address
• August: Many Italian businesses and some post offices close or reduce hours in August — expect delays

Saving Money

1. Compare on atoship

atoship shows all carrier options with commercial discounts for Italy shipments.

2. USPS Flat Rate for Dense Items

Great value for heavy, compact items to Italy.

3. Avoid August Shipping

If possible, avoid shipping to Italy in August when the country partially shuts down for vacation.

4. Include Codice Fiscale

Including the recipient's Italian tax code can prevent customs delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to ship to Italy from the US?

A small package (1 lb) costs $16–$25 via USPS First-Class International. Medium packages run $40–$75 via Priority Mail International. Commercial rates through atoship save 20–50% on UPS and FedEx.

How long does shipping to Italy take?

USPS Priority Mail International: 6–10 business days. UPS/FedEx economy: 4–6 days. Express: 2–3 days. Add 3–7 days for customs processing, which is slower in Italy than Northern Europe.

Why is Italian customs so slow?

Italy has a more thorough inspection process than many EU countries. Packages may be randomly selected for detailed inspection, and staff shortages at some customs offices add delays. Using UPS or FedEx (who handle customs clearance) typically speeds up the process.

Can I ship food to Italy?

Packaged, shelf-stable items are generally fine. Italy (as part of the EU) restricts meat, dairy, and animal products from non-EU countries. Homemade food items may be confiscated.