So, you’re concerned that your parcel could be intercepted at customs. Well, look no further as here at Parcel Delivery, we can provide you with all of the information that you need to ensure that your items make their way through customs without any issues. You may be surprised by the range of items that aren’t allowed through the border, as some countries have some weird and wonderful restrictions to consider. Here, we’re taking a closer look at whether or not your parcel is likely to get stopped at customs.
What To Look Out For
There are 3 things to look out for when you’re finding out if the item you are sending is allowed across the border. The first is prohibited items; these items are banned from the country by law, so it is not recommended to even attempt to send these items as you could find yourself in legal trouble, or on the receiving end of some hefty fines.
The second thing to look out for is items that are restricted. Restricted items are similar to prohibited but the difference is that you can have these items if you have specific documents required by law. An example of a restricted item is a gun. Guns aren’t forbidden in some countries, as you are allowed to have one if you have a license and the appropriate documentation to go along with it.
The final consideration is No Compensation. These are items that are allowed to be sent but they won’t be covered for if they are broken. As a result, couriers will specifically state that it is against their recommendation to send that item. An example of this is antiques or fragile items which are highly valued.
Prohibited
If you have recently had a family member’s birthday, and that family member lives abroad and your thinking of sending them a bottle of their favourite fragrance, you may need to hold back because aftershave and perfume can be a prohibited item in some countries. The reason being is that perfume and aftershave can be extremely flammable, as well as posing a risk if the glass shatters.
Another example of a prohibited item, depending on the country, is any form of liquid. The reason behind this is due to the fact it can be difficult to tell what the liquid is and may individuals can smuggle things within it – particularly if it is a dark colour. As a result, almost all liquids are banned in the majority of countries around the world.
Restricted
Restricted items are pretty much what you’d expect to find in this list. Firearms are a restricted item along with explosives and ammunition. The only way you can send these to all countries is by having a special permit. On the other end of the spectrum, some food and plants aren’t allowed through customs. They aren’t allowed through customs if they are from outside of the EU or the plant is carrying any diseases or can cause harm. Countries like Australia are particularly concerned about any form of soil, plant matter, or animal matter, due to the impact a foreign body can have on their existing ecosystem.
No Compensation
The No Compensation category is mainly for expensive items that will not be refunded if they were to break. Mobile phones and laptops are the most common examples of No Compensation items, but antiques and other highly valuable items will also be included in this category.
It is also important to remember that you are unable to send money, so you should refrain from doing this also. You will not be compensated for the loss of this money if it becomes lost or stolen, as there is no way to prove what was in the parcel.
In conclusion, if you have any of the products that fit under these headings then it would be recommended you don’t attempt to send it. Check this full list of prohibited and restricted items for more information.
