Iraq is a young and fast-growing market with around 45 million people (as of 2024) and one of the highest population growth rates in the region . The country adds roughly 1 million new residents each year, with over 1.25 million births recorded in 2020 alone . This booming population – projected to reach 80 million by 2050 – represents a huge pool of potential consumers for brands expanding into Iraq . Notably, internet access has improved significantly (around 75% internet penetration by 2021 ), enabling more Iraqis to shop online and engage in e-commerce.
E-commerce in Iraq is growing rapidly from its early stages. Estimates value Iraq’s e-commerce sector at about $3 billion annually, with between 500,000 to 600,000 online orders placed per day . Much of this activity has historically been “social selling” – conducted via Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp – but the market is becoming more structured as dedicated online stores and marketplaces emerge . A key cultural point is that Iraqi consumers are accustomed to personal interaction and trust when buying; even online purchases often involve direct communication with sellers and cash transactions upon delivery .
Customer behavior in Iraq’s e-commerce scene still heavily favors Cash on Delivery (COD) payments. In fact, COD is the most commonly used payment method for online shoppers in Iraq . Low credit card penetration and trust issues mean customers prefer to pay in cash only after receiving the product, which they feel is safer . For businesses, this leads to unique challenges: handling cash securely, managing returns or refusals (the order cancellation/return rates can reach ~40% in Iraq ), and building customer trust with reliable service. Any company looking to ship e-commerce orders in Iraq needs to understand these local market nuances and be prepared with the right logistics solutions.
Challenges of Shipping Packages in Iraq
Shipping packages to and within Iraq comes with some distinct challenges that brands from outside the country should keep in mind:
- Infrastructure & Addressing: Iraq’s logistics infrastructure is still developing. While main cities have regular delivery routes, address systems can be inconsistent. Couriers often rely on landmarks or phone communication with recipients rather than precise street addresses. A local delivery team with on-the-ground knowledge is crucial to navigate this efficiently.
- Regional Considerations: Iraq has 18 provinces including the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region in the north. Shipping between Kurdistan and federal Iraq can involve checkpoint delays or additional customs clearance . A logistics partner must manage these inter-regional shipments smoothly to avoid lost time. Coverage across all key cities (Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Mosul, etc.) is essential for nationwide service.
- Security and Reliability: Although the situation has improved greatly in recent years, Iraq’s past instability means international shippers often worry about package security. Working with a trusted local delivery company known for reliability and secure handling can mitigate these concerns . Established players have adapted to “complex environments” and can ensure your goods arrive safely .
- Customs and Regulations: If you are shipping from abroad into Iraq, be aware of import regulations, required documentation, and potential duties. Iraq has been updating its legal framework for e-commerce; for example, a new e-commerce regulation was introduced in 2025 to formalize the sector . A knowledgeable partner can handle customs clearance and keep you compliant with any new rules.
- Cash on Delivery & Returns: As noted, COD is king in Iraq. Handling cash payments adds complexity – couriers need to collect cash at the doorstep, and businesses require a process to get those funds settled back to them. Moreover, customers can refuse packages at delivery (sometimes simply due to a change of mind), so reverse logistics for returns is part of the game. Efficient COD reconciliation and returns management are critical to maintaining profitability.
Despite these challenges, the Iraqi e-commerce market is highly promising. Consumers are tech-savvy and demand is rising for quality products and fast service. By partnering with the right logistics provider and adapting to local practices, international brands can successfully ship to Iraq and tap into this growing opportunity.
How to Ship Packages to Iraq: Key Steps and Tips
For brands outside Iraq, shipping to customers in Iraq requires careful planning. Here are some key steps and tips to ensure smooth delivery operations:
- Choose the Right Shipping Method: Decide whether to send orders individually or in bulk. For occasional shipments or high-value items, using international couriers (e.g. DHL, FedEx) directly to the customer is possible – these global carriers do operate in Iraq and offer end-to-end shipping. However, for e-commerce order volume, a more cost-effective approach is to partner with a local logistics provider. Often, brands will consolidate shipments to Iraq (or maintain inventory there) and let a local courier handle the last-mile delivery to the customer.
- Handle Customs and Documentation: When sending goods into Iraq, ensure all paperwork is in order. Provide accurate commercial invoices, descriptions, and HS codes for your products. Work with your shipping partner on any needed import permits or duties. A seasoned freight forwarder or logistics company can assist with customs clearance to prevent your packages from getting stuck at the border.
- Provide Clear Address & Contact Details: Always collect detailed delivery info from customers, including a phone number. Because addresses can be vague, couriers in Iraq often call recipients for directions or to schedule delivery. Including landmarks or notes (e.g. “near X mall, opposite Y building”) on the shipping label helps. Ensure the customer’s phone is reachable and consider using delivery management tools (many local couriers have apps or SMS notifications) so the customer knows when to expect the package.
- Offer Cash on Delivery (COD) Payment: To maximize sales in Iraq, you should offer COD as a payment option – it’s what many customers expect. Coordinate with your logistics partner on COD handling: typically, the courier will collect the cash payment upon delivery. Make sure you establish how cash settlements will be transferred back to you (e.g. weekly bank transfers of collected COD). Additionally, be prepared for a higher return rate; work with your partner on a policy for failed COD deliveries (e.g. reattempt delivery, return to origin, etc.).
- Consider Local Fulfillment: If you expect significant order volume, consider storing inventory in Iraq with a fulfillment partner. Many of the best Iraqi logistics providers offer warehousing and fulfillment services. This means you can ship bulk stock to Iraq, then local staff will pick, pack, and ship orders domestically each day. Local fulfillment drastically reduces delivery time (often to next-day within major cities ) and shipping cost per order. It also allows for easier returns handling and COD processing. For example, instead of sending individual international parcels for each order, you replenish your Iraq warehouse periodically and let the local team do the rest.
- Track Shipments and Communicate: Use a service that provides tracking for your packages. Top Iraqi delivery companies have systems (often with real-time tracking, SMS updates, or even WhatsApp bots ) to keep you and your customer informed. Proactive communication is key – notify customers when an order is out for delivery. Given the high use of mobile phones, some companies even have drivers call shortly before arrival. These practices improve successful delivery rates and customer satisfaction.
By following these steps and working closely with a reliable logistics partner, shipping packages in Iraq can become a seamless process. The next section will help you evaluate who that partner should be – highlighting some of the best e-commerce shipping providers in Iraq and what services they offer.
What to Look For in an Iraqi Logistics Partner
When selecting a shipping provider in Iraq, international brands should look for a full-spectrum logistics partner that can handle every step from receiving your products to delivering to the end customer. Key services and qualities to look for include:
- Global Shipping Capabilities: The provider should be able to assist in bringing your goods into Iraq through air or land freight. This includes handling import customs clearance and transportation from international hubs to their local facilities. Providers like Mateen Express even operate cargo flights and have expertise as freight forwarders, connecting “Iraq to the world” .
- Warehousing & Fulfillment: A top logistics partner offers storage in Iraq with the ability to pick, pack, and fulfill orders on your behalf. This means once your inventory is in their warehouse, they manage all incoming orders, saving you from dealing with each order separately. Inventory management systems, secure storage, and quick order processing are important features here.
- Nationwide Last-Mile Delivery: Ensure the company has a robust last-mile delivery network covering all of Iraq’s key regions. They should handle urban deliveries (e.g. within Baghdad or Erbil, often with same-day or next-day speed) as well as reaching smaller cities and towns. A large fleet of drivers, route optimization technology, and experience navigating local routes are signs of a capable provider. Companies that are “regional specialists” for Iraq and have dedicated teams in multiple cities can offer more reliable coverage .
- Cash on Delivery (COD) Handling: Since COD is crucial, your partner must be experienced in collecting cash payments and remitting them to you efficiently. Look for features like daily cash reconciliation, the option for the courier to provide exact change to customers, and secure handling of money. Also, inquire about COD fees (some charge a small extra fee per COD transaction). Providers that integrate COD with technology – for example, using digital wallets for drivers and merchants – can speed up settlements .
- Tech Integration & Tracking: In modern e-commerce, being able to track orders and integrate the shipping process with your online store is invaluable. The best logistics companies in Iraq offer tracking portals or APIs so you and your customers can see delivery status updates. Some even use advanced tools like live GPS tracking, automated notifications, and AI-driven dispatch to improve performance . A partner with a strong tech platform will give you transparency and control over your shipments.
- Reliable Customer Service: Finally, good communication and support are key. Choose a provider known for responsive customer service – both to you as a client and to your end-customers. They should have support lines or account managers who can address issues like delivery exceptions, returns, or special requests (for example, scheduling deliveries at certain times). Positive word-of-mouth in the market about a company’s reliability is a strong indicator here.
By evaluating potential logistics partners against these criteria, you can find a solution that not only ships packages but truly partners with your business – handling the heavy lifting of distribution so you can focus on sales and growth.
Best E-Commerce Shipping Providers in Iraq
Several logistics companies have risen to meet Iraq’s e-commerce delivery needs. Below we highlight some of the best e-commerce shipping providers in Iraq, with Hi-Express topping the list as a premier option for brands:
- Hi-Express – Fast and Tech-Driven Iraqi Delivery: Hi-Express is a Baghdad-based startup specializing in last-mile parcel delivery across Iraq . Founded in 2019, Hi-Express quickly grew to serve more than 170 online vendors within its first year . The company leverages proprietary technology (including a mobile app for tracking and order management) to provide fast, reliable deliveries. Hi-Express prides itself on reaching all 18 provinces with speed – for example, orders within Baghdad can be delivered in just a few hours. The team’s local expertise and tech platform have helped them overcome Iraq’s logistical challenges, positioning Hi-Express as a trusted logistics partner for e-commerce businesses in Iraq . Uniquely, Hi-Express offers fully integrated services: they can handle international inbound shipping, provide warehousing and fulfillment in Iraq, perform the last-mile delivery, and manage COD cash collection and settlement. This one-stop solution is highly attractive to overseas brands seeking to enter the Iraqi market without building their own infrastructure. Hi-Express has even attracted investor attention – securing seed funding to expand its fleet and services – which speaks to its reputation as an innovator in Iraq’s logistics scene . For companies looking for a partner on the ground, Hi-Express’s blend of speed, coverage, and end-to-end service makes it a top choice.
- Aramex – Regional Logistics Leader: Aramex is one of the Middle East’s largest logistics providers, and it has a strong presence in Iraq. With decades of experience in the region, Aramex offers a full range of services: international shipping, freight forwarding, warehousing, and domestic courier delivery. They are known for reliable express delivery and have established offices or agents in major Iraqi cities. Aramex is often the go-to for businesses that want a proven network; they handle everything from delivering documents and small parcels up to freight for corporations. Crucially for e-commerce, Aramex supports Cash on Delivery and has systems to remit COD payments to sellers. According to industry analyses, Aramex is among the top three players in Iraq’s organized e-commerce logistics market by volume . This means they have significant capacity and infrastructure in-country. Brands might choose Aramex for its global reach combined with local know-how – for instance, an international seller can use Aramex to pick up orders from their home country and deliver all the way to the Iraqi customer’s door. The trade-off can be cost; Aramex’s premium service may come at higher rates than local startups. Still, for many, the peace of mind and professionalism Aramex provides is worth it. They also offer online tracking and integration options that can seamlessly plug into your e-commerce platform.
- Sandoog – E-Commerce Fulfillment Specialist: Sandoog is an Iraqi logistics startup that has been pioneering end-to-end e-commerce services in the country. Starting as a last-mile delivery service, Sandoog soon expanded its offerings to become a full-suite fulfillment provider . The company provides warehousing, order fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and COD management specifically tailored for online sellers. Sandoog’s founders recognized that many online sales in Iraq originate from social media and informal channels, so they built solutions to bring structure and scale to these businesses . An example of Sandoog’s innovation is its COD cash management system – due to the overwhelming use of cash, Sandoog introduced an e-wallet system for its drivers and merchants to streamline how cash is collected and transferred, increasing trust and efficiency . Sandoog has gained credibility by partnering with major international brands (about 30% of its 100+ merchant clients are global companies like Philips and Skechers) , helping them enter the Iraqi market. This indicates Sandoog’s ability to meet international standards. If you’re looking for a partner deeply familiar with Iraqi consumer behavior (like the need for personal engagement and even customer haggling tendencies in some cases ), Sandoog is a strong contender. They focus on optimizing the post-order experience – from the moment a customer in Iraq clicks “buy,” Sandoog can handle everything until that customer has the product in hand and has paid. Their approach of combining technology with local cultural insight makes them one of the best e-commerce shipping providers in Iraq today.
- Mateen Express Logistics – Connecting Iraq to the World: Mateen Logistics (sometimes called Mateen Express) is a veteran Iraqi logistics company, operating since 2003 and headquartered in Erbil. With about 200+ employees and a presence across Iraq (and even offices in Dubai, Turkey, and China), Mateen offers a broad range of logistics solutions . They specialize not only in courier delivery but also in freight forwarding, air cargo, and heavy logistics, which makes them a strong choice for companies that need both international freight and local delivery. Mateen is known for its exceptional reliability in “the most complex environments,” leveraging deep regional expertise in Iraq and Kurdistan . For e-commerce retailers, Mateen can manage inbound shipments (via air, sea, or land), handle customs clearance, and then deliver orders to customers across Iraq. They have warehouse facilities and can accommodate distribution of high volumes. According to market research, Mateen is among the top logistics players in Iraq’s e-commerce sector, alongside Aramex and Sandoog . Their longevity in the market means they have established processes and relationships (with customs, airlines, etc.) that can smooth out shipping hiccups. Furthermore, Mateen’s slogan “Connecting Iraq to the world” speaks to their focus on bridging international businesses with Iraqi consumers . If your priority is an experienced partner who can handle large-scale operations and end-to-end supply chain needs, Mateen Express is a top option to consider.
- DHL & International Couriers – Global Delivery Services: While not Iraq-based, it’s worth mentioning that DHL, FedEx, UPS, and similar global couriers do serve Iraq. These companies are ideal for shipping documents, samples, or urgent parcels from abroad directly to recipients in Iraq, given their worldwide networks. DHL, for instance, has offices in Baghdad and Erbil and offers express shipping (often delivering in 3–5 days from many countries). They also handle customs for you. However, for regular e-commerce orders, these options can be cost-prohibitive, and they typically do not offer COD services. Thus, international couriers are usually not the primary solution for local order delivery or cash collection – but they can complement your strategy for specific needs (like delivering to areas not covered by local firms, or for expedited deliveries). Many businesses use DHL or similar for B2B shipments or to send bulk stock into Iraq, then switch to a local provider for last-mile to customers. In summary, global couriers provide reliability and speed for international legs, but pairing them with an Iraq-focused provider yields the best results for e-commerce.
Choosing the Best Option: Each of the above providers has its strengths. Hi-Express stands out for its localized focus on Iraq, technology integration, and comprehensive service from first mile to last mile, making it an excellent choice for brands that want a hassle-free entry with one dedicated partner. Aramex offers unparalleled regional experience and a balance of international and domestic capabilities. Sandoog is great for those who want a partner deeply attuned to Iraqi consumer habits and a ready-made fulfillment solution, especially if social media sales are a big channel. Mateen Logistics brings heavyweight experience and can scale with your business from cargo to courier. And DHL/others can fill in the gaps for international express needs.
Many successful e-commerce ventures targeting Iraq actually use a combination of services – for example, a global courier to send inventory to a warehouse in Baghdad, then a local delivery network for distribution and COD. The good news is that Iraq’s logistics landscape is rapidly improving, with startups and established companies alike investing in better infrastructure, faster delivery times (one-day delivery is becoming common in cities ), and smarter technology.
Conclusion
Entering a new market can be daunting, but Iraq’s youthful population and e-commerce surge present a significant opportunity for brands willing to adapt. By understanding local customer behavior (such as the dominance of COD and the importance of trust), planning for the logistical hurdles, and partnering with a capable Iraqi shipping provider, you can successfully ship packages in Iraq and delight your customers.
Whether you’re a regional brand in the Middle East or an international retailer looking for your next growth market, Iraq should be on your radar. The e-commerce ecosystem is evolving quickly – with an estimated half-million+ orders daily and climbing , Iraqi consumers are embracing online shopping in greater numbers. They are looking for quality products, and they expect reliable delivery to go with it.
Investing in a strong logistics partnership is key. Companies like Hi-Express, Aramex, Sandoog, and others are essentially bridges connecting global sellers with Iraqi buyers. They handle the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively) of moving goods across borders and through the “last mile” to the customer’s doorstep. With full-service solutions available – from global shipping and warehousing to last-mile delivery and cash payment collection – expanding into Iraq has never been more achievable for e-commerce businesses.
In short, shipping to Iraq is completely feasible and can be highly rewarding, provided you work with the best partners and tailor your approach to the local market. By doing so, you’ll not only get your packages delivered – you’ll build a reputation among Iraqi shoppers as a trustworthy, convenient choice, setting the stage for lasting success in this dynamic market.
