Why International Shipping Rules Exist
When you are shopping from your favorite American brands, it is easy to forget that your package has to travel thousands of miles and pass through several layers of security and legal checks. Understanding why these restrictions exist is the first step to a successful delivery. As a reliable package forwarder, comGateway helps bridge the gap between US retailers and Czech shoppers, ensuring that all 2026 safety standards are met before your parcel even leaves the warehouse.
Shipping restrictions are primarily in place for three reasons: safety, international law, and logistical limitations. For example, items that are perfectly legal to own in the US might be restricted for air travel because they are pressurized or flammable. Similarly, the Czech Republic, as part of the European Union, has specific trade agreements and health standards that must be respected.
Restricted and Prohibited Goods for Czechia
Not all items are treated the same by customs officials in Prague. It is important to distinguish between 'prohibited' items (which can never be sent) and 'restricted' items (which require special packaging or documentation).
- Flammable Liquids: Items like perfumes, nail polishes, and certain cleaning agents are often restricted because they are considered hazardous materials for air freight.
- Lithium Batteries: In 2026, regulations regarding lithium batteries remain strict. While you can ship most electronics, the batteries must be contained within the device.
- Counterfeit Goods: Czech customs are highly vigilant about trademark infringement. Shipping 'knock-off' luxury goods can lead to the destruction of the package and potential fines.
- CBD and Supplements: While some hemp products are legal, any supplement containing even trace amounts of THC or specific unapproved ingredients may be seized.
If you are unsure if your item can be shipped, you should check our FAQ or contact the support center for a pre-purchase consultation.
Understanding Size and Weight Thresholds
Why do size limits exist? Most international shipments from the USA to Czechia travel in the cargo holds of commercial or dedicated freight aircraft. These planes have strict weight distribution requirements. Furthermore, local delivery couriers in Czechia, such as Zásilkovna or Czech Post, have their own physical limits for what a single driver can carry.
Generally, most express carriers impose a weight limit of around 70kg (154 lbs) per individual box. If your shipment exceeds these dimensions, it may require palletization, which significantly increases the price. To avoid surprises, you should estimate shipping costs to Czechia using our online calculator to see how dimensional weight—the amount of space a package takes up—affects your total fee.
Customs Duties and VAT in 2026
The reasoning behind customs fees is to protect the local economy and collect tax revenue. In 2026, the Czech Republic continues to follow EU-wide taxation rules for imported goods. Below is a quick reference for the current thresholds:
| Fee Type | Threshold | Details |
|---|---|---|
| VAT (Value Added Tax) | €0 and above | Applied to almost all imports regardless of value. |
| Customs Duty | Over €150 | Calculated based on the item category and shipping cost. |
| Excise Duty | No threshold | Applied specifically to alcohol and tobacco products. |
By understanding these rules, you can better plan your shopping. Many users choose to consolidate multiple small packages into one larger box to save on the base shipping fee, though you must remain mindful of the €150 duty threshold. If you have more common questions about how duties are calculated, our support center provides detailed breakdowns of the 2026 tax landscape.
Summary
Shipping from the USA to Czechia is easier than ever, but it requires a basic understanding of international logistics. By respecting size limits and checking the restricted goods list before you buy, you ensure that your items arrive safely and without unexpected delays at the border. Always remember to Get a Quote before finalizing large purchases to ensure your budget accounts for both shipping and potential import taxes.
