If you’ve ever ordered from China and felt nervous watching your parcel stuck at customs, you’re not the only one. Some boxes fly through without issue, while others get delayed, returned, or even destroyed. The reason is almost always shipping restrictions. And if you’re new to cross-border shopping, understanding them will save you time, money, and frustration.
Many overseas buyers don’t buy directly from Chinese platforms. Language barriers, limited payment methods, and confusing shipping rules make it tough. That’s why agents exist—to bridge the gap, handle the hard parts, and get your orders safely to your door.
👉 First time using an agent? This step-by-step guide shows you how it works.
Sensitive vs. Prohibited: What’s the Difference?
- Sensitive items These aren’t banned, but they come with extra conditions. Phones, tablets, and power banks with batteries fall into this group, along with perfumes, lotions, nail polish, snacks, and supplements. Shipping them often means choosing the right line and sometimes dealing with extra customs checks.
- Prohibited items These are a firm no. Weapons, ammo, explosives, toxic chemicals, endangered animal products, drugs—none of these will ever clear customs. Even if you split parcels, repack, or try to disguise them, they’ll get stopped. Think of them as global red lines: once you cross them, you’re risking seizure, fines, or worse.
Don’t Skip the Basics: Common Mistakes with Routes
Two errors cause the majority of failed shipments.
First mistake: ignoring route labels. Every shipping line has notes—battery-friendly, cosmetics-allowed, or standard. If you pick the cheapest option without paying attention, expect delays, returns, or extra charges.
Second mistake: gambling with sensitive goods. Don’t assume “it’ll be fine.” Always confirm with your agent before you buy. A 30-second chat with customer service can prevent weeks of headaches. Remember: asking costs nothing, but guessing can cost your entire order.
Country Restrictions at a Glance
Every country has its own rules, and what’s allowed in one place might be totally banned in another. Here are a few examples:
- United States: very strict with food, supplements, and medical equipment. Lithium battery goods often face detailed inspection.
- European Union: electronics and cosmetics may require certification; packaging and labeling are heavily regulated.
- Australia & New Zealand: extremely strict on food, plants, seeds, and animal products. Even untreated wooden packaging can be refused.
- Canada: dairy, meat, and certain supplements are restricted. Electronics usually pass but can attract taxes.
- United Kingdom: similar to EU on cosmetics and electronics, but supplements and liquids face extra checks.
- Japan: careful with food, especially meat and dairy. Cosmetics and skincare need approval.
- South Korea: beauty products and supplements can be imported but must follow strict labeling and ingredient rules.
- Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, etc.): religious and cultural rules apply—alcohol, pork, and some beauty products are banned. Electronics are typically fine but often taxed.
The lesson? Never assume the rules are the same everywhere.
Your Pre-Order Checklist
Before you click “buy,” run through this quick list:
- Is it prohibited? If yes, don’t order.
- If it’s sensitive, do I know which line I need?
- Have I checked the product page details and asked the seller if it’s exportable?
- Did I confirm with customer service?
- Did I choose the right line (battery, cosmetics, or regular)?
- Have I reviewed my destination’s specific restrictions?
- Did I add shipping insurance for peace of mind?
- Looking to save money? Check coupon options before you pay.
If Things Go Wrong
Sometimes, even when you do everything right, customs may still intervene. If that happens:
- Contact your agent immediately. They’ll confirm whether the parcel is being returned, taxed, or confiscated.
- Rely on your insurance. That’s why shipping insurance exists—it’s your backup plan when things go sideways.
Level Up Your Shipping Confidence
- Want to see how the entire buying process works? Read the coupon guide.
- Haven’t signed up yet? Register now and grab up to 800 CNY in shipping coupons to make your first orders easier on the wallet.
Four Golden Rules
- Talk to your agent first.
- Read product details and confirm with the seller.
- Pick the right shipping line.
- Always buy insurance.
Stick to these, and you’ll dodge most of the headaches that come with sensitive shipments. Happy shopping—and may your parcels arrive safe and sound.
