International Shipping from / to Ethiopia

Customs in Ethiopia

The Customs department in Ethiopia has the right to search all parcels and shipment that come into the country.  This does not mean that they will search everyone, but the larger or more expensive that the contents are declared to be, the more likely they are to be searched as a rule of thumb.  The Customs department will require certain paperwork to be filled out pertaining to your shipment such as a Bill of Lading and a Certificate of Origin.  Just keep in mind that their Customs office is not terribly fast so there may be heavy delays in getting your package through this piece of the puzzle and to its final destination within the country.

Security concerns when shipping to Ethiopia

When considering shipping to Ethiopia, you will want to take into consideration the security concerns that are abundant in this country.  There have been many thefts, both from ground shipments and from ocean cargo freight liners headed to Ethiopia for delivery along the Gulf of Aden.  Beyond piracy on the waterways, there has been heavy arms trafficking in the region as well as report of deadly weapons of mass destruction there as well.  With this types of illegal shipping occurring in the area, it should come as no surprise that legal shipments are often lost in the shuffle when shipping companies are attacked and / or seized by either outlaws or the government. 

Shipping limitations to Ethiopia

At this time you are prohibited from shipping and coins, bank notes or traveler's checks to Ethiopia.  You may ship cassettes, video tapes and books there as long as you have the permission of the Ministry of Information and Education.  To obtain permission and get written documentation of such, you should either contact that department directly or consult with your shipping company to find out the process you need to undertake.  There are other items on the restricted list that you need extra paperwork for so be sure to check before shipping.