The Reality of Shipping from the USA to Ireland
As a veteran in the logistics industry, I’ve seen thousands of packages make their way across the Atlantic. While most people think shipping is as simple as clicking "buy," shipping from the USA to Ireland involves navigating a complex web of Revenue Commissioners rules and carrier limitations. If you want to avoid your items being seized or returned, you need to know the insider rules for 2026.
Size and Weight Limits You Need to Watch
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring dimensional weight. Most major international carriers have a maximum length limit of approximately 274 cm (108 inches) and a combined length and girth of 330 cm. However, Ireland's local postal service, An Post, often has stricter intake limits for the final mile delivery.
When using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, you can often find ways to consolidate multiple items into one box to stay within these limits while significantly reducing the volumetric weight charge. Always remember that if a package is too heavy (usually over 70kg), it may require specialized freight handling, which can triple your costs overnight.
Restricted vs. Prohibited Goods: What You Can't Send
There is a big difference between "prohibited" (never allowed) and "restricted" (allowed only with specific permits). In 2026, Irish Customs has become particularly strict regarding health supplements and certain electronics. Here is a breakdown of items that frequently cause headaches at the Dublin or Shannon airports:
- Perfumery and Flammables: Anything containing high levels of alcohol, such as perfumes, colognes, or nail polish, is classified as Dangerous Goods. These cannot be shipped via standard air mail without specialized hazardous materials handling.
- Supplements and Vitamins: Ireland has strict regulations on certain ingredients. If a supplement contains a substance classified as a medicinal product in the EU, it will be seized.
- Lithium Batteries: While you can ship electronics, loose lithium batteries are strictly prohibited. They must be installed within the device.
- Dairy and Meat Products: Due to EU biosecurity laws, you generally cannot ship any food items containing meat or dairy from the USA to Ireland.
The €150 Threshold and 2026 VAT Rules
Since the major EU tax overhauls, there is no longer a "de minimis" for VAT. This means you will pay the Irish VAT (currently 23% for most goods) on every item, regardless of its value. However, the €150 threshold remains the magic number for Customs Duty. If your package value (including shipping and insurance) exceeds €150, you will be hit with an additional percentage charge based on the specific commodity code of the item.
To avoid "sticker shock" when your package arrives, it is always wise to estimate shipping costs to Ireland and calculate your potential tax liability before you finalize your US purchase. Understanding these shipping rates early can save you from abandoned packages at the border.
Pro Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance
If you are unsure about a specific product, it is always best to check our FAQ or consult the Irish Revenue website directly. A common "insider" mistake is mislabeling items as "Gifts" to avoid tax. In 2026, customs officials use advanced digital scanning and AI data matching that flags undervalued items instantly. Always ensure your commercial invoice is detailed; instead of writing "Clothing," write "100% Cotton Men's T-shirt."
| Item Category | Restriction Level | Insider Note |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Low | Must have CE marking for EU compliance. |
| CBD Products | High | Often seized if THC content is above 0.2%. |
| Aerosols | Prohibited | Considered a safety risk in pressurized cabins. |
| Handbags | Medium | High-value items over €150 incur significant duty. |
By understanding these boundaries, you can shop from your favorite US brands with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect when your parcel hits Irish soil.
