Sending a Postcard to a Friend in Lithuania: A Comprehensive Guide for Indians

Expressing your thoughts and wishes through a postcard is a unique way to connect with friends and family, especially those living in distant places like Lithuania. As an Indian residing in India, sending a postcard to your Lithuanian friend might seem a fun yet complex task. However, with the right information and steps, you can easily complete this task. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining postcards and the detailed procedure to send a postcard internationally.

Where to Get Postcards in India

Postcards, also referred to as post cards in India, are widely available in several places across the country. You can find postcards in different formats and designs in:

Post Offices: Although in the current era where online shopping and online payment are preferred, post offices are still a reliable place to find postcards. Postmasters can give you the international tariff and help with the process of affixing stamps. Stationery Stores: Traditional and online stationeries stores, both big and small, often stock a variety of postcards. You can also find unique and personalized postcards here. Nostra Drop-In-Boxes: These boxes, also known as Nostra kūryb? or nostrapunktai, are popular in Lithuania. You might not find them in India, but they serve as official drop-off points for international mail and are a fun addition to your collection of postcards.

How to Send a Postcard Internationally to Lithuania

Step 1: Select the Postcard

Grasp the essence of your message and choose a postcard that embodies your feelings. Postcards can come with themes like landscapes, cultural icons, or personal sentiments. It's essential to note that for international mail, postcards should not exceed 150mm x 100mm and must not weigh more than 20g.

Step 2: Obtain the International Tariff

Even though sending postcards online is a growing trend, it's helpful to know the traditional method. You can approach the postmaster in a nearby nikhil rashtriya gami bhavan or post office to find the current international tariff for postcards. In India, the cost is usually around ?50-150 depending on the class and the distance, which can take anywhere from 8 to 10 days to reach Lithuania.

Step 3: Affix the Required Stamps

After obtaining the tariff information, head to the post office with the postcard and the appropriate amount of money to purchase the required stamps. Indian postcards generally need two types of stamps:

Airmail Stamps: For international destinations, these stamps are necessary. Language Stamp: If your postcard's message is in a language considered foreign in the postcard's country of origin, you may need to affix the corresponding stamp.

Alternatively, if you prefer to save time, you can find online postal services that offer international shipping. Features like automatic stamp generation, tracking, and payment online make the process much smoother. Websites like Delhivery and ShipRocket can be a convenient option for sending postcards to Lithuania.

Step 4: Address the Postcard

Write the recipient's name, address, and postal code on the postcard. Make sure to include the country code for Lithuania, which is LT, to ensure that the postcard reaches its destination accurately and efficiently.

Step 5: Send the Postcard

Place the postcard in an envelope or a postcard sleeve and seal it. Drop it in the postbox or at a post office. If you have used a taped envelope, seal it and drop it in the postbox.

Additional Tips for Sending Postcards Internationally

Use Postcard-Friendly Glue: To avoid separating your postcard upon arrival, use damp stamps with a bit of glue. Photocopies: If your postcard is a beloved piece of art, consider making a photocopy to send and keep the original. Photos and Messages: Including a sim card or digital message can add a human touch to your postcard, making it more engaging for your Lithuanian friend.

Conclusion

Sending a postcard to a friend in Lithuania can be a delightful bonding activity. Whether you choose the traditional post office route, an online postal service, or a personal touch, ensure that your message reaches Lithuania within the estimated 8-10 days. Remember, the journey and the thought are as important as the postcard itself. Happy postcard sending!