Shipping vitamins and dietary supplements abroad requires compliance with strict customs regulations, ingredient restrictions, labelling laws, and carrier policies.
This guide covers how to ship vitamins and supplements internationally, including customs requirements, the best shipping methods (including DHL), legal considerations, and best practices for smooth deliveries.
1. Can You Ship Vitamins and Dietary Supplements Internationally?
Yes, UK businesses can ship vitamins and dietary supplements internationally, but regulations vary depending on the destination country.
Unlike standard consumer goods, dietary supplements are often regulated as food or medicine, requiring careful compliance with import laws.
Key Factors That Affect International Shipping of Vitamins
- Ingredient Restrictions – Some vitamins contain banned or controlled substances in certain countries.
- Product Classification – Some supplements are classified as medicinal products, requiring extra approvals.
- Customs Duties & Import Tax – Many countries impose special import taxes on dietary supplements.
- Labelling Regulations – Some regions require specific nutritional information, warnings, and language translations.
Common Challenges When Shipping Supplements
- Restricted herbal extracts such as kava, ginseng, and ephedra
- High-dose vitamins that exceed country limits
- Prohibited substances in some regions (for example, melatonin is banned in some countries)
- Delays due to incomplete customs paperwork
Before shipping, always check the import rules of the destination country to avoid delays or confiscations.
2. Country-Specific Regulations for Vitamin Imports
Different countries have strict rules for dietary supplements, especially regarding ingredients and labelling.
| Country | Regulatory Authority | Common Restrictions |
| United States | FDA (Food & Drug Administration) | Supplements must comply with FDA dietary supplement regulations. Certain herbal extracts are banned. |
| European Union (EU) | EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) | Supplements classified as foods must follow EFSA safety limits. Restrictions apply to high-dose vitamins and amino acids. |
| Australia | TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) | Supplements may need TGA approval before import. Restrictions apply to caffeine and herbal extracts. |
| Canada | Health Canada | Supplements classified as Natural Health Products (NHP) require product licensing. |
| China | CFDA (China Food & Drug Administration) | Strict import rules. Many vitamins require pre-market approval. |
Commonly Restricted Ingredients in Supplements
- CBD and hemp extracts – Banned in many countries
- Melatonin – Restricted in the UK, Canada, and Australia
- High-dose vitamins – Vitamin D, K, and B12 have maximum limits in the EU
- Herbal extracts – Yohimbe, Kava, and Ephedra are restricted in several countries
Before shipping, confirm that your supplement formulation meets the destination country’s regulations.
3. Best Couriers for Shipping Vitamins and Supplements
Choosing the right shipping carrier is essential for ensuring your vitamins and supplements arrive safely and comply with customs regulations. Below is a comparison of the best couriers for shipping vitamins internationally:
| Courier | Best For | Restrictions |
| DHL | Fast global shipping with customs support | Some high-dose supplements and herbal extracts require special clearance |
| FedEx | Reliable tracking and express shipping service | Some dietary supplements may need pre-approval in destination countries |
| UPS | Secure delivery for high-value supplements | Limited acceptance of liquids, powders, and high-dose vitamins |
| Royal Mail | Cost-effective option for small parcels | Some supplements may be restricted for international shipping |
| DPD | Best for EU shipments post-Brexit | Restrictions apply to supplements containing certain herbs and vitamins |
How to Choose the Best Courier for Your Business
- For fast global shipping: Use DHL or FedEx
- For EU shipping: Consider DPD
- For cost-effective small shipments: Royal Mail is a good option
- For secure high-value supplements: Use UPS
Before shipping, always check the carrier’s restricted items list to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
4. Required Documentation for Exporting Supplements
To prevent customs delays, shipments must include the correct paperwork:
- Commercial Invoice – Describes product type, ingredients, and value.
- Packing List – Specifies product weight, packaging type, and contents.
- Customs Declaration (CN22 or CN23 Form) – Required for all international shipments.
- Harmonized System (HS) Code – Use HS Code 2106.90 for general dietary supplements.
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA) – Some countries require lab-tested ingredient proof.
- Import License or Health Permit – If required, obtain an importer’s license before shipping.
If a supplement contains medicinal ingredients, check if an additional health certificate is needed.
5. Customs Duties, VAT, and Import Taxes
Who Pays for Import Taxes?
In most cases, the recipient is responsible for paying customs duties on imported supplements. However, businesses can opt to prepay VAT to simplify the process for customers.
VAT & Import Tax by Region:
- EU – Post-Brexit, UK businesses must register for IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop) for VAT compliance.
- US – No import tax on goods under $800.
- Australia and Canada – Import duties apply to supplements, often requiring additional paperwork.
To reduce customs delays, businesses should inform customers about potential taxes before checkout.
6. Best Practices for Safe and Compliant Shipping
Packaging for Vitamins and Supplements
- Use airtight, tamper-proof packaging to prevent contamination.
- Seal powders, capsules, and liquids in leak-proof containers.
- Label ingredients, expiry dates, and storage conditions clearly.
Checking Import Laws Before Shipping
- Some countries require pre-approval for certain supplements.
- Always use correct labelling to avoid customs rejection.
Streamlining Shipping with Fulfilment Services
Managing international supplement shipping can be complex, but fulfilment services help businesses handle order processing, storage, and customs clearance. This reduces shipping risks and ensures efficient delivery.
A fulfilment partner can help scale global sales without the logistics burden.
7. FAQs About Shipping Vitamins and Supplements from the UK
Can I ship vitamins internationally from the UK?
Yes, but businesses must follow ingredient restrictions, customs laws, and labelling rules for each country.
What documents do I need to ship dietary supplements?
A commercial invoice, HS code, and customs declaration are essential. Some countries require health certificates or import permits.
Can I send supplements via DHL?
Yes, but some high-dose vitamins and herbal extracts may require extra documentation.
How can I prevent customs delays when shipping supplements?
- Provide accurate customs declarations and HS codes.
- Use a reliable courier with customs clearance support.
- Ensure labels and ingredients comply with local regulations.
Conclusion
Shipping vitamins and supplements internationally offers a great opportunity for UK businesses, but it requires compliance with customs regulations, carrier restrictions, and labelling laws.
By choosing the right courier, preparing proper documentation, and understanding import regulations, businesses can successfully expand into global markets.
For those looking to simplify the process, working with a fulfilment service can help manage logistics, reduce customs risks, and ensure smooth international shipping.
