Sensitive Goods Checklist — Can It Ship by International Express?
“Can I ship this by express?” — one of the most common customer-service questions. This article is a quick-reference by category.
1. Three major express carriers’ limitations
| Carrier | Strength | Main limits |
|---|---|---|
| DHL | Stable transit (3-5 days), strong EU/US network | Restricted on cosmetics, food |
| FedEx | Bulky-friendly, US-China lane excellent | Strict battery inspection |
| UPS | Cheapest for USWC, small parcels | Heavy / remote-area surcharge |
Universal restrictions across the three: weapons, drugs, flammables, prohibited animal products — never acceptable.
2. Category quick reference
✅ Direct shipping (general cargo)
- Normal electronics (phone case, earbuds)
- Apparel, footwear
- Plastic products
- Paper, printed matter
⚠️ Extra paperwork needed
| Category | Required documents | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in lithium battery | UN38.3 report, MSDS, capacity ≤ 100Wh | Per-piece declaration |
| Battery-paired products (external) | Same as above + separated packaging | Often recommend ocean |
| Cosmetics (liquid) | MSDS + ingredient list | Some categories banned |
| Powders | MSDS + usage statement | Often flagged as “dangerous goods” |
| Food | Nutrition facts + origin certificate | High inspection risk |
| Medicine / herbs | Drug supervision certificate | Most carriers reject |
❌ Likely reject
- Standalone batteries (must be paired with product)
- Gas canisters (sprays)
- Knives / sharp tools (some can declare)
- Tobacco / alcohol (tax + declaration complexity)
- Seeds / plants (bio-invasion risk)
3. Battery-product practical points
Per-piece declaration
- Each item needs independent battery declaration (no sharing across 10 items).
- Battery capacity marked on outer packaging.
Ocean as alternative
- 100+ battery products, ocean is more stable and cheaper.
- FCL dedicated container avoids battery review completely.
Capacity red line
- Single battery ≤ 20Wh, total ≤ 100Wh.
- Excess must go “dangerous goods” — air forbidden, ocean has dedicated containers.
4. Cosmetics / food key notes
Cosmetics:
- MSDS + INCI ingredients + brand authorization → can ship, but some (lipstick / perfume) need ocean.
- Personal-use small batch: DHL possible with “personal use” declaration.
Food:
- Nutrition facts + factory hygiene certificate → some countries accept.
- USA: USDA restricts fresh and meat products.
- EU: ingredient label + allergen info required.
5. What to ask when in doubt?
Send AYC customer service this info:
- Cargo list + quantity + weight
- Product photos + packaging photos
- Battery: built-in or external?
- Destination country + consignee is company or individual?
Within 3 minutes, you’ll get a “yes / no / use ocean instead” recommendation.
Need a sensitive-cargo shipping solution, contact AYC sales.