Have you ever tried to send a package to a loved one only to find out that the item you wanted to ship is prohibited by the shipping company? It can be disappointing to learn that certain items cannot be shipped, but it’s important to know these restrictions in order to ensure the safety of both the recipient and the shipping workers.
From perishable items to hazardous materials, we’ll cover everything you need to know so you can make informed decisions the next time you need to send a package.
Perishable Food Items
Perishable food items, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats, cannot be shipped because they can quickly spoil and pose a health risk to both the recipient and the shipping workers. If you’re trying to send a care package to a loved one or send a gift basket to a client, there are a few options you can consider instead.
What to Do Instead:
- Gift cards to local grocery stores or restaurants
- Non-perishable food items, such as cookies, chocolates, and crackers
- Dry goods, such as pasta, rice, and spices
- Gift baskets with non-perishable items and a personal note
Plants and Seeds
Shipping plants and seeds can be a bit complicated, as different countries have different regulations regarding the import and export of plants. Additionally, shipping live plants can be difficult because they are often fragile and can easily die during transit.
What to Do Instead:
- Artificial plants or flowers
- Dried plant arrangements
- Seeds that have been treated to prevent germination
- Gift certificates to local nurseries or gardening centers
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials, such as batteries, chemicals, and flammable liquids, cannot be shipped because they pose a risk to both the recipient and the shipping workers. If you need to send a product that contains hazardous materials, there are a few options you can consider instead.
What to Do Instead:
- Products that do not contain hazardous materials
- Gift certificates to stores that sell the product you want to send
- Digital versions of the product, such as e-books or software downloads
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, cannot be shipped under any circumstances. If you are caught shipping illegal drugs, you could face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment.
What to Do Instead:
- Legal prescription drugs, if approved by your doctor and the recipient’s doctor
- Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers and cold remedies
- Vitamins and supplements, if approved by your doctor and the recipient’s doctor
Live Animals
Live animals, such as pets, cannot be shipped because they can be easily injured or killed during transit. Additionally, shipping live animals requires special permits and certifications, which can be difficult and time-consuming to obtain.
What to Do Instead:
- Gift certificates to pet stores or pet-friendly hotels
- Toys, treats, and other pet-related items
- Gift certificates to animal shelters or rescue organizations
Human Remains
Human remains, such as ashes from a cremation, cannot be shipped because they are considered to be dangerous goods. Additionally, shipping human remains requires special permits and certifications, which can be difficult and time-consuming to obtain.
What to Do Instead:
- Memorial items, such as photographs, keepsakes, and jewelry
- Donations to a charity in memory of the deceased
- Planting a tree or memorial garden in their memory
- Creating a memorial website or social media page to honor their memory
Counterfeit Goods
Counterfeit goods, such as fake designer handbags and knock-off watches, cannot be shipped because they are illegal. If you are caught shipping counterfeit goods, you could face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment.
What to Do Instead:
- Authentic products from the designer or manufacturer
- Gift certificates to stores that sell the product you want to send
- Handmade or personalized gifts that are unique and special
If you’re unsure about what you can and cannot ship, or if you need help shipping a complex or difficult item, consider hiring a professional shipping company. These companies have the expertise and experience to handle all types of shipments, and they can help you navigate the complex regulations and requirements of shipping.
A professional shipping company can also help you find alternative solutions to shipping items that are restricted, and they can help you choose the best shipping method for your needs. Whether you need to send a small package or a large shipment, a professional shipping company can help you get your items where they need to go, safely and securely.
