Prohibited Items International Shipping: A Guide to PostNL's Restrictions

Do you sell online and ship to customers internationally? If so, learn which prohibited items international shipping networks won't accept before you package that order. Certain goods are restricted or banned from international shipping because they pose a safety risk during transport. This guide breaks down what you can and can't send internationally.

Note: The restrictions below apply specifically to shipments heading outside Canada and the US. Some items on this list, like perfume, may still be accepted for US-bound shipments if they meet the appropriate packaging and labelling requirements. Always check the requirements for your specific destination countries.

What We're Seeing Right Now

Lately, we've seen more shipments flagged or rejected by carriers. The common reason is that they contain items like perfume or sharp objects such as knives. These are easy items to overlook if you're not familiar with international shipping restrictions. However, they fall under rules for flammable liquids and dangerous goods.

Before you list these products for international customers or pack an order, take a moment to check the guidelines:

Common Items You Cannot Ship Internationally

The list below covers items that PostNL restricts or prohibits. This isn't exhaustive, though. Always check the latest list of prohibited and restricted items before shipping anything you're unsure about.

Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols

• Perfume and other alcohol-based liquids
  
• Liquids and gels, including toiletries and alcoholic beverages
  
• Hand gel containing alcohol or ethanol
  
• Aggressive substances, such as cleaning liquids or battery fluid
  
• Corrosive and oxidizing substances, such as bleach or glue
  
• Paint
  

Sharp and Dangerous Items

• Knives and other sharp items
  
• Firearms and ammunition
  
• Defence or incapacitating sprays
  
• Explosives, flammable liquids, and flammable solids (such as fireworks, matches, or incense)
  

Batteries and Electronics

• Loose or used lithium batteries
  
• Battery-powered vehicles and devices
  
• Electronic devices with gel or liquid cartridges, such as shavers or electric toothbrushes
  
• Electronic cigarettes or vapes
  
• Cordless personal care kits containing aerosols or gels
  

Everyday Items You Might Not Expect

• Powder, including baby powder, dry shampoo, and powder detergent.
  
• Compressed gas or cylinders, such as deodorant
  
• Curling irons and lighters
  
• Camping equipment
  
• MREs (meals, ready-to-eat)
  
• Magnets and other loose items classified as dangerous goods
  
• Dry ice, brine, or gel and ice packs
  
• Tobacco or other excise duty goods
  
• Radioactive substances
  
• Poisons and toxic substances, such as pesticides
  
• Oxygen for medical purposes
  
• Smart bags
  
• Air purifiers and ionizers
  

Shipping Lithium Batteries: What to Know

Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods and come with strict shipping requirements.

Please note that Stallion does not ship lithium batteries, whether they are loose, used, or new.

What Happens If You Ship A Restricted Item

If customs authorities find a prohibited or non-compliant item in your shipment, they can:

• Confiscate or destroy the item
  
• Charge you for the cost of disposal
  
• Delay your entire shipment while it's investigated
  
• Suspend your shipping account, depending on the severity of the violation
  

This is why it pays to double-check your product catalogue against these restrictions, especially if you're expanding into new international markets.

How to Ship Compliantly

Staying compliant doesn't have to be complicated once you know what to look for. Here's a simple process to follow before you list a product internationally or send off an order:

1. Review your product list. Flag any items that fall into restricted categories, particularly liquids, batteries, and sharp objects.
   
   
   
2. Check destination-specific rules. Requirements differ by country, so what's accepted in one market may be rejected in another.
   
   
   
3. Confirm before you commit to international listings. If you're planning to sell a product internationally, verify its shippability first rather than finding out after a customer orders it.
   
   
   
4. Ask before you assume. If you're unsure whether an item qualifies as dangerous goods, ask your carrier for guidance before shipping.
   

For the complete and most current shipment conditions, visit PostNL's shipment conditions page.

Ship Smarter with Stallion

International shipping restrictions can be tricky to deal with, especially as your product catalogue grows. Stallion helps Canadian sellers ship confidently. We keep you informed about compliance requirements so you can avoid delays, fees, and rejected shipments.

Do you have questions about a specific product? Contact our team before you ship!

Jose Sagun

Jose is Stallion's Senior Business Analyst. He helps improve the company’s shipping processes, works closely with delivery partners, and looks at shipping data to find the best prices for our customers. Outside of work, Jose has a passion for running, regularly completing 5k and 10k runs, with the goal of running a full marathon in the near future.