After you move to Madrid and find a place to live, you will need to receive mail. This guide explains how package delivery works in Spain and how to collect missed parcels.
Correos and national post
The national postal service in Spain is Correos. They deliver standard letters, registered letters, and packages.
Standard mail goes directly into your home mailbox. If a package does not fit, the delivery worker will not leave it on your doorstep.
Instead, they will leave a paper slip in your mailbox. This slip is called an aviso de llegada (delivery notice slip).
Take this slip and your identification to your local oficina de correos (post office). There, you can collect your package.
You can find your assigned office address printed on the slip. You must bring a valid identity document.
Acceptable documents include your passport or your tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (foreigner identity card). Correos holds packages for 15 calendar days.
If you do not collect the item within this period, they will return it to the sender.
Correos Citypaq locker system
Correos offers an automated locker service to receive parcels. This service is called Citypaq (automated locker service).
You can find these yellow lockers in supermarkets, petrol stations, and transit stations. You can register for free on the Correos website to use them.
The system gives you a unique delivery code. You use this code as part of your address when shopping online.
When your package arrives, the system sends a barcode to your phone. You scan this barcode at the locker to open the compartment.
This service is useful if you are not at home during the day. Lockers are usually accessible 24 hours a day.
Private courier companies in Spain
Many online stores use private courier services instead of national post. The most popular private carriers in Spain are MRW, SEUR, GLS, DHL, and UPS.
Each company has its own tracking system. They will send you an email or SMS with your delivery window.
Private couriers usually make two delivery attempts. Unlike Correos, they might call your phone if you are not home.
Make sure you write your local phone number on all shipping orders. Delivery drivers rarely speak English.
If they cannot reach you, they will take the package to a local shop. You must then collect it from there.
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Using collection points
Many couriers deliver to local shops to avoid missed deliveries. These shops are called puntos de recogida (collection points).
You can choose this option at checkout on most websites. Common collection points include newsagents, florists, and local grocery stores.
This option is often cheaper than home delivery. It also gives you more flexibility.
You will receive an email when your package is ready. The email will state the address and opening hours of the shop.
You must show your photo ID to the shopkeeper to collect the package. They will scan the barcode on your phone.
What to do when you miss a delivery
If you miss a delivery, you must act quickly. Check your tracking link for updates.
If Correos missed you, take your notice slip to the post office. You usually have to wait until the next working day.
If a private courier missed you, they will leave a digital notice. You can reschedule the delivery online.
You can also redirect the package to a nearby parcel shop. This is usually the fastest way to get your items.
If you cannot collect the package yourself, you can authorize a friend. You must write an autorización (authorization form) for them.
Example: You want a friend to pick up your Correos package. You must write a signed note authorizing them. Your friend must bring the note, their ID, and a photocopy of your ID to the post office.
Customs fees and import taxes
Packages from outside the European Union are subject to customs clearance. This process is handled by Correos or the courier company.
You must pay value added tax on all imported goods. The Spanish term for this tax is impuesto sobre el valor añadido (value added tax, commonly abbreviated as IVA).
The standard rate of this tax is 21 percent. You must also pay customs duties on items worth more than 150 euros.
These customs duties are called aranceles (import tariffs). The courier company will charge a processing fee to handle customs.
You can pay these fees online before delivery. If you do not pay, the courier will return the package to the sender.
Avoid ordering items from outside the European Union if you want to avoid high fees. Customs clearance can also delay your package by several weeks.
Questions and answers
Can I track my package online?
Yes. All major courier companies provide tracking numbers. You can use their websites or apps to see where your package is.
What happens if I do not have a Spanish phone number?
Drivers may not deliver. Courier drivers often call to confirm you are home. You should get a Spanish number as soon as you arrive.
Can a courier leave my package with a neighbour?
Sometimes. Some companies allow this if you give permission online. However, they usually prefer delivery to collection points.
How long do private couriers keep packages?
Usually 7 to 10 days. If you do not collect your parcel from their shop, they return it. Check the company policy for exact timelines.
Do I need my NIE to receive packages?
Only for international shipments. Customs officials require your tax number for packages from outside the European Union. You do not need it for local mail.
What is the fee for Correos customs handling?
It varies. Correos charges a handling fee of around 5 to 20 euros. This fee is in addition to the VAT and import taxes.
