posting lens

Go to your local Post Office and ask for "Airmail Small Packets". If it's a valuable lens you'll have the option of adding both extra insurance (up to £500) and "International Signed For" which gives you confirmation of delivery. Make sure the lens is well wrapped (bubble wrap's good) and double box it for extra peace of mind - some postal services aren't exactly careful!

If it's going to Italy then I'd say the "International Signed For" part is a must, for other countries it's just an option.

I would also beware of what country you're sending it to. No offence to our Italian members, but their post office doesn't have a great reputation for successful deliveries of expensive items!

Edit: oops, I see Hefty has already mentioned Italy

I use a signed for method on everything I send (home and abroad) unless the value is so insignificant I can afford to lose the item.

within eu airsure, fast & fully tracked service.

point to note about post office compensation. compensation has always been 100 x 1st class stamps. however if your item is worth more than this & you have not bought extra compensation then your item will have no cover for loss or damage.

also when you now file a claim you must provide a proof of purchase a paypal sellers invoice is no longer considered adequate.

the post office are also now actively asking the valur of your item being sent special delivery despite getting 500gbp cover...