[PL] How do I send the number plates and how do I prepare them for shipping?

Sending number plates is a subject that may seem simple, but in reality requires attention and care. Sometimes the plates need to be sent back to the office after the vehicle has been deregistered, other times they need to be sent to the seller or the new owner of the car. Whatever the reason, it is important to secure them properly and follow a few formalities to avoid delays, lost shipments or damage. In this article, we explain how to send licence plates safely and efficiently.

When is it necessary to send number plates?

There are several situations in which you may need to send your plates. Among the most common are:

• deregistration of the vehicle and the obligation to send the plates back to the communications department,
• sale of a vehicle from abroad, where the plates must be returned to the country of registration,
• donation of collector or commemorative plates (e.g. for decorative purposes),
• replacing damaged plates and sending them to the office.

Each of these cases requires that the plates are protected from damage and that the appropriate shipping method is chosen.

Can number plates be sent?

Yes, number plates can be sent, but there are a few things to bear in mind. While they are not in themselves identity documents or prohibited items, they are a vehicle identification marking. This means that their shipment requires caution. Importantly, you must not send them while the vehicle is still registered and in use – the exception being if they are temporary or damaged plates.

If sending them to the office, it is a good idea to include the relevant documents, such as an application to deregister the vehicle or a covering letter. When sending the plates in connection with the sale of a car, you should be sure that the vehicle is already re-registered or deregistered.

How do I prepare the number plates for dispatch?

To ensure that the plates arrive intact, you need to protect them properly. The best thing to do is to apply several layers of protection to protect them from bending, abrasion or accidental damage in transit.

Step 1: Secure corners and surfaces

The best solution is to wrap the boards with bubble wrap or place them in a cardboard stiffening envelope. You can also use pieces of cardboard to drape them over each side and tie them down with packing tape. Well-protected boards should not move or bend during transport.

Step 2: Choose a suitable envelope or box

Depending on the size of the boards (standard boards are about 52 cm long), you will need a cardboard envelop e roughly A3 size or a thin cardboard box at least 55 cm long. The boards should not protrude outside the packaging or shuffle freely inside.

Step 3: Mark the parcel as “Caution: do not bend”.

Some courier companies or sorting offices may mechanically handle parcels. Therefore, it is a good idea to mark the parcel or envelope with a clear message such as “Number plates – do not bend” to avoid damage.

Step 4: Attach documents

If you are sending the plates to the office, remember to include a covering letter with the owner’s details, the vehicle’s VIN number, the reason for shipping and your signature. This may include an application to deregister the vehicle or other certification. Lack of documentation may cause a delay in dealing with the case.

What is the best company to send licence plates by?

Envelopes or cardboard boxes containing secure number plates can be sent by either the Polish Post Office or courier companies. The choice depends on the urgency of the parcel you have to send and whether you want a receipt.

The Polish Post Office is a cheap solution, especially for registered mail. It can be used to send priority or economy registered mail. When sending, it is worth asking for a proof of posting and keeping it until you have confirmed receipt.

Courier companies, on the other hand, mean faster delivery and online tracking. Some companies offer the option of parcel insurance and day-specific delivery. When choosing a courier, it is worth paying attention to the maximum size of parcels. As an option, you can send your parcel in a parcel machine.

What to bear in mind when sending number plates?

You already know how to send number plates and that it is not a particularly complicated operation, but it does require care. It is crucial to properly secure the parcel, choose a reliable delivery method and include the required documents, especially when the parcel goes to the office.

With a few simple steps, you can be sure that the boards will reach the recipient intact and without unnecessary complications. In addition, when preparing the boards for shipment, it is worth remembering a few practical rules:

• do not bend or break the boards, even if the packaging seems too large,
• do not send the boards in a regular paper envelope – it is easy to break it,
• describe the package carefully, especially when going to the office (sender details, purpose of shipment),
• check the available delivery options and choose secure forms of shipment.

If the plates have collector’s or emotional value, consider shipping them with full insurance. See also how to send rims with tyres.