Customs & Rules · 7 min read
Prohibited and Restricted Items: What You Cannot Ship Overseas
Most things you want to send are perfectly shippable. But a short list of items is either banned by air and sea carriers or restricted by the destination country — and including them can get your whole shipment delayed, fined, or seized. This guide explains what you truly cannot ship, what is merely restricted, and how to handle the grey areas before you pack.
Items that are almost always prohibited
These are banned by virtually every carrier because they are dangerous in a sealed cargo hold or illegal to move across borders. Do not pack them, even in small amounts.
- Flammable liquids and gases (fuel, lighter fluid, propane, many aerosols)
- Explosives, fireworks, ammunition, and weapons
- Illegal drugs and unlicensed pharmaceuticals
- Corrosives, poisons, and hazardous chemicals
- Counterfeit goods and items that breach the destination's laws
Items that are restricted (allowed with conditions)
These can usually be shipped, but only with the right packaging, paperwork, or declaration. Tell us in advance so we can route them correctly.
- Lithium batteries and devices that contain them (limits and special labelling apply)
- Perishable food (must be non-perishable or properly preserved and packed)
- Alcohol and tobacco (duties and quantity limits at destination)
- Medicines (may need a prescription or import permit)
- High-value electronics (declare the value and keep receipts)
Cash, documents, and valuables
Never ship cash, jewellery, or irreplaceable documents loose in a barrel or box. They are easily lost or stolen and usually are not covered. If you must send important documents, use a tracked document service and keep copies.
When in doubt, ask first
Rules differ by destination country and change over time. The cheapest mistake to avoid is packing a prohibited item that holds up an entire shipment at the port. If you are unsure about a specific item, message us before you pack — a 30-second question can save weeks of customs delay.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ship a phone or laptop overseas?
Yes — electronics with built-in lithium batteries are usually fine when declared and packed correctly. Loose spare batteries have stricter limits, so tell us in advance.
Can I send food in my shipment?
Non-perishable, sealed, factory-packed food is generally fine. Fresh or perishable food is restricted and often not allowed without special handling.
What happens if I accidentally pack a banned item?
It can delay or get the whole shipment held at customs. Always ask first if you are unsure — we would rather repack one box than hold your entire load.
Not sure if you can ship it?
Ask us before you pack. Get a free quote and we'll confirm what's allowed for your destination.