Restricted items: What you can and cannot ship

When you ship something internationally, it's not just about customs and taxes. Some items are simply not allowed on planes or across borders. If you try to ship these, your package might be returned, destroyed, or seized.

1. What is the difference between restricted and prohibited?

• Prohibited items: These are completely banned. You cannot ship them under any circumstances. Examples include illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, or dangerous weapons.
• Restricted items: These can be shipped, but only with specific conditions, packaging, or permits.

Most people run into trouble with restricted items because they don't realize that common household products can be dangerous in the cargo hold of a plane.

2. Can I ship lithium batteries?

Yes, but with very strict rules. Lithium batteries (found in phones, laptops, and power banks) are considered "dangerous goods" because they can catch fire if damaged.

Generally, you can ship a battery inside a device (like a phone), but you cannot ship loose batteries (like a replacement laptop battery) using most standard postal services. If you must ship loose batteries, you usually need a specialist courier and a "Dangerous Goods" declaration.

3. Why are perfumes restricted?

Perfume and nail polish are often restricted because they are flammable. Most perfumes contain a high percentage of alcohol, which is classified as a "flammable liquid."

Many couriers and postal services (like Royal Mail or USPS) have very strict limits on the size and number of perfume bottles you can send internationally. If you are shipping more than 150ml of perfume, your package might be rejected by the airline.

4. Are there restrictions on food and plants?

Yes, and these are some of the toughest rules to navigate. Most countries have strict "biosecurity" laws to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.

As a general rule:

• Processed food (like chocolate or biscuits) is usually fine.
• Fresh fruit, vegetables, or meat are almost always prohibited.
• Seeds and plants always require a special "phytosanitary certificate."

If you send seeds or plants without the correct paperwork, customs will likely destroy them.

5. What happens if I ship a restricted item?

If your package is scanned and found to contain a restricted item that wasn't declared correctly, one of three things will happen:

• Return to sender: The courier will refuse the package and send it back to you. You usually don't get a refund for the shipping cost.
• Seizure: Customs or the airline will take the item and dispose of it.
• Fines: In serious cases (like shipping large quantities of dangerous chemicals), you could be fined or even prosecuted.

Always check the "prohibited and restricted items" list on your courier's website before you send anything.