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Comprehensive Guide to Postal Services in Nanjing, China

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, has a well-established postal system operated primarily by China Post (中国邮政), the official postal service provider in China. Whether you are a visitor or a new resident, understanding how to use the postal services in Nanjing is essential for sending and receiving mail or packages. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the postal system in Nanjing.

1. Types of Services Offered by China Post in Nanjing

China Post provides a wide range of services to meet the needs of individuals and businesses. These include:

Mail Services

Domestic Mail: Standard letters, postcards, and small parcels can be sent to any location within China.
International Mail: Letters, postcards, and parcels can be sent to most countries worldwide.
Registered Mail: Offers tracking and proof of delivery for important documents or items.
Express Mail Service (EMS): A faster, premium service for both domestic and international deliveries, with tracking and guaranteed delivery times.

Parcel Services

Domestic Parcels: For larger items sent within China.
International Parcels: For sending goods abroad, with options for air, surface, or combined transport.

Courier Services

EMS International Express: A high-speed international courier service for urgent deliveries.
China Post Express Logistics (EUB): A service tailored for e-commerce businesses, especially for shipping to international customers.

Other Services

Bill Payments: Some post offices allow you to pay utility bills or other fees.
Banking Services: Many China Post branches also operate as Postal Savings Banks, offering financial services.
Philately: Collectors can purchase commemorative stamps and other philatelic items.

2. Costs of Postal Services

The cost of postal services in Nanjing depends on the type of service, the weight of the item, and the destination. Below is a general breakdown:

Domestic Mail

Standard Letter (up to 20g): Around ¥1.20.
Postcard: Around ¥0.80.
Small Parcels (up to 1kg): Starting at ¥10-15, depending on the distance.

International Mail

Standard Letter (up to 20g): Around ¥5-10, depending on the destination.
Postcard: Around ¥4-6.
Small Parcels (up to 1kg): Starting at ¥80-100 for air mail.

EMS (Express Mail Service)

Domestic EMS: Starts at ¥20-30 for small items.
International EMS: Starts at ¥150-200, depending on the destination and weight.

Additional Fees

Registered Mail Fee: Around ¥3-5 on top of standard postage.
Insurance: Optional for valuable items, with fees based on the declared value.

3. Procedures for Sending and Receiving Mail or Packages

Sending Mail or Packages

Prepare Your Item: Ensure your item is properly packed. China Post provides envelopes, boxes, and other packaging materials for purchase if needed.
Addressing: Write the recipient's address clearly in Chinese characters for domestic mail. For international mail, include the address in English and the destination country in Chinese (e.g., 美国 for the USA).
Visit a Post Office: Take your item to the nearest post office. For EMS or international parcels, you may need to fill out a customs declaration form.
Weighing and Payment: The staff will weigh your item and calculate the postage. Pay the fee and keep the receipt, which includes a tracking number if applicable.
Tracking: Use the tracking number on the China Post website or app to monitor your shipment.

Receiving Mail or Packages

Home Delivery: For most domestic and international parcels, the delivery will be made to your address. Ensure your address is written in Chinese and includes your phone number.
Pick-Up at Post Office: If you miss a delivery, you may receive a notification slip. Bring the slip and your ID (passport for foreigners) to the specified post office to collect your item.
Customs Clearance: For international packages, customs may require you to pay duties or provide additional documentation before releasing the item.

4. Locations of Major Post Offices in Nanjing

Nanjing has numerous post offices spread across the city. Below are some key locations:

Main Post Office

Address: 1 Zhongshan Road (中山路1号), Xuanwu District
Services: Full range of services, including EMS and international mail.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sunday).

Nanjing Railway Station Post Office

Address: Near Nanjing Railway Station, Xuanwu District.
Services: Convenient for travelers, offering domestic and international mail services.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Daily).

Xinjiekou Post Office

Address: 88 Hanzhong Road (汉中路88号), Gulou District.
Services: Popular location in the city center, offering a wide range of services.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday).

University Area Post Offices

Many universities in Nanjing, such as Nanjing University and Southeast University, have small post offices on or near campus for student convenience.

5. Operating Hours

Most post offices in Nanjing operate during the following hours:

Weekdays: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Holidays: Hours may vary, so check in advance.

Larger branches, such as the main post office, may have extended hours or operate 7 days a week.

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

Language Barrier: Most postal staff in Nanjing speak limited English. It’s helpful to have the address written in Chinese and use translation apps if needed.
Peak Times: Post offices can be busy during lunch hours (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM) and before holidays like Chinese New Year. Plan your visit accordingly.
Customs for International Mail: Be aware of restrictions on items you can send or receive. Prohibited items include weapons, perishable goods, and certain electronics.
Cash Payments: Smaller post offices may not accept credit cards, so carry cash (RMB) for payments.
Stamps and Philately: If you’re a stamp collector, inquire about special or commemorative stamps, which are often available at larger branches.

7. Useful Tips

China Post App: Download the China Post app for tracking shipments and finding nearby post offices.
Private Couriers: For faster or more flexible services, consider private courier companies like SF Express (顺丰速运), ZTO Express (中通快递), or DHL for international shipments.
Packaging Services: Many post offices offer packaging services for a small fee, ensuring your items are securely packed.

By understanding the postal system in Nanjing, you can efficiently send and receive mail or packages, whether domestically or internationally. If you have specific needs or questions, feel free to ask for further assistance!