Whether you sell cosmetics, drinks, cleaning products, or chemical solutions, it’s important to understand the specific rules and challenges involved in shipping liquids overseas.
The short answer: yes, you can—but it depends on the type of liquid, how it’s packaged, and where it’s going.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything online businesses need to know, including:
- What types of liquids can and can’t be shipped
- Legal and courier restrictions
- Packaging and labelling requirements
- Customs and documentation tips
- Recommended fulfilment strategies
Can You Ship Liquids Internationally?
Yes—online businesses can ship liquids internationally, but with some important restrictions.
Liquids are subject to strict shipping rules because of the potential for leaks, spills, or safety hazards. The type of liquid you’re shipping matters a lot.
Some are fine to send with the right packaging. Others may be classed as dangerous or even prohibited.
Types of Liquids and Their Shipping Rules
Use this table to quickly understand what you can and can’t ship internationally:
| Type of Liquid | Can Be Shipped Internationally? | Conditions/Restrictions |
| Non-hazardous liquids (e.g. shampoo, soap, sauces) | Yes | Must be securely sealed, correctly labelled, and comply with volume limits |
| Alcohol (wine, spirits) | Sometimes | Varies by destination; may require permits or be limited by volume |
| Flammable liquids (e.g. perfumes, nail polish remover) | Restricted | Classified as Dangerous Goods; requires special packaging and documentation |
| Perishable liquids (e.g. juice, dairy) | Yes, with conditions | Must be shipped quickly, often with refrigeration or insulation |
| Hazardous chemicals | Limited or prohibited | Strictly regulated; often banned depending on composition and destination |
| Medical liquids (e.g. syrups, reagents) | Sometimes | Often require licenses, special packaging, and supporting documents |
International Regulations You Must Follow
Shipping liquids across borders involves complying with a range of international and national regulations, particularly for liquids classified as Dangerous Goods (DG). These rules are in place to ensure safe transport and minimise risk.
Key Regulatory Bodies
| Organisation | Applies To | What It Covers |
| IATA (International Air Transport Association) | Air freight | Packaging standards, quantity limits, labelling |
| ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) | Air freight | Technical Instructions for DG transport |
| IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) | Sea freight | Classification, labelling, and documentation |
| ADR (European Agreement) | Road transport | Transport of hazardous goods across EU roads |
If your product is classed as DG (such as flammable liquids), you’ll need approved packaging, specific UN numbers, and in many cases a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD).
Country-Specific Import Restrictions
Different countries have their own rules when it comes to importing liquids. Some are more lenient, while others have strict safety or biosecurity laws.
| Country | Allowed Liquids | Restricted/Prohibited Liquids | Special Requirements |
| United States | Cosmetics, non-flammable household liquids, beverages (non-alcoholic) | Alcohol (regulated by TTB), flammable goods, some medical liquids | FDA registration for cosmetics or food, TTB licence for alcohol, MSDS for DG |
| Canada | Non-hazardous liquids (e.g. skincare, shampoos) | Flammable products, large quantities of alcohol | Health Canada rules apply to cosmetics; labelling in English and French |
| Australia | Cosmetics, food-grade liquids (e.g. sauces, oils) | Essential oils, some herbal liquids, dairy, perishable liquids | Very strict biosecurity laws; may require import permits and ingredient disclosure |
| Germany | Beauty products, cleaning supplies, food liquids | Hazardous chemicals, high-proof alcohol | Cosmetic products must comply with EU Cosmetic Regulations; CE labelling required |
| France | Non-hazardous cosmetics, non-alcoholic drinks | Strong alcohol, certain medical liquids | French labelling may be required; customs documentation must match product exactly |
| Japan | Skincare, beauty products, sealed food liquids | Alcohol, DG items, pharmaceuticals | Products may require prior notification under the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act |
| United Kingdom | Most liquids allowed including alcohol, cosmetics, and cleaners | DG items without proper documentation | DG shipping must comply with UK CAA and ADR; alcohol above duty-free limits needs declaration |
| United Arab Emirates | Cosmetics, perfumes, non-alcoholic drinks | Alcohol, religiously sensitive ingredients, DG | All imported goods must comply with UAE safety and labelling standards; customs inspections common |
| Singapore | Most non-DG liquids | Flammable liquids, over-the-counter medication | Import permits for medicinal liquids; product details must be declared clearly |
| China | Food-grade and personal care liquids | Strong alcohol, unknown chemical substances | Labelling must be in Simplified Chinese; many imports require registration with customs or CIQ |
Tip: Check with the customs authority in your destination country before shipping. Restrictions may differ for B2B vs. B2C shipments or depending on shipping method (air vs. sea).
What Do Couriers Allow?
Not all couriers allow you to ship liquids—especially overseas. Here’s how some of the major names handle international liquid shipments:
| Courier | Ships Liquids Internationally? | Conditions and Notes |
| DHL Express | Yes | Follows IATA rules; flammable items require pre-approval and documentation |
| FedEx | Yes | Accepts non-hazardous liquids; DG items require documentation and proper packaging |
| UPS | Yes | Pre-approval often needed; some destinations restrict certain liquids |
| Royal Mail | No | Prohibits most liquids in international mail |
| DPD | No | Liquids generally not accepted for international delivery |
Always check with your chosen courier. Even if they allow liquids, specific rules around packaging, labelling, and paperwork will apply.
How to Package Liquids for International Shipping
Packaging liquids correctly is one of the most important steps. Damaged or leaking shipments can be delayed, returned, or even destroyed.
Packaging Checklist:
- Primary container: Leak-proof bottle, jar, or pouch with a secure seal
- Secondary containment: Heat-sealed plastic bag or leak-proof wrap to contain any spills
- Absorbent material: Towels, pads, or cushioning to soak up leaks
- Cushioning: Bubble wrap or foam around the container to prevent breakage
- Outer packaging: Rigid, double-walled cardboard box, sealed with strong tape
- Orientation: Mark with “This Way Up” and “Fragile” labels if needed
Labelling Requirements
Proper labelling ensures your package is handled correctly and clears customs without issues.
| Liquid Type | Required Labels |
| Non-hazardous liquids | Product name, volume, clear description (e.g. “Body Lotion – Not Hazardous”) |
| Dangerous Goods | UN number, hazard symbol, handling labels, shipper’s declaration |
| Alcohol or medical products | May require country-specific labels (e.g. ABV%, batch number, or medicine classification) |
Mislabelled or undeclared items can be seized, returned, or result in penalties.
Customs and Documentation
To avoid customs delays or rejections, you’ll need the right paperwork for customs clearance.
Documents You May Need:
- Commercial Invoice – Details product name, value, purpose (e.g. resale, sample)
- Packing List – Lists each item and its packaging configuration
- Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – Required for chemicals or potentially hazardous liquids
- Import/Export Licences – Needed for alcohol, pharmaceuticals, or regulated products
- Certificates of Origin or Health Certificates – May apply to food-grade or plant-based liquids
Tip: Be accurate and honest when declaring contents. Customs officials are trained to spot vague or misleading descriptions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
| Shipping banned or restricted liquids | Can result in customs rejection, fines, or package destruction |
| Using poor packaging | Increases risk of leakage, damage, or courier refusal |
| Misdeclaring liquid contents | Illegal and may result in shipment seizure or penalties |
| Ignoring courier-specific policies | Even compliant packages can be rejected if you use the wrong courier |
| Failing to label properly | Delays, customs holds, or returns—especially for Dangerous Goods or regulated liquids |
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Ship Liquids Internationally—With the Right Process
Shipping liquids across borders is definitely possible—but it requires preparation, knowledge of regulations, and the right shipping strategy.
Whether you’re shipping body lotion to Berlin or bottled juice to Japan, following the proper steps helps avoid delays and keeps your customers happy.
Key takeaways:
- Know your product type and classification
- Understand the rules for your destination country
- Use secure, leak-proof packaging
- Choose the right courier and fulfilment partner
- Get your documentation right
Need Expert Help Shipping Liquids Globally?
Impact Express offers full-service international shipping and fulfilment solutions for eCommerce retailers—including support for liquid and regulated products.
Our team is trained in Dangerous Goods compliance, customs documentation, and courier coordination to help your products reach global customers safely and efficiently.
Contact us today to discuss your needs.
