Mailing Restrictions: What You Can Send and What’s Prohibited
If you’ve ever stood at a post office counter wondering why a box can’t go through, you’re not alone. Shipping companies, couriers, and postal services all have rules that keep dangerous or illegal things off the road. Knowing those rules before you pack saves time, money, and headaches.
Common Prohibited Items
First up, the obvious no‑gos: fireworks, flammable liquids, and explosives. Anything that can ignite, explode, or create toxic fumes is blocked from most carriers. Sharp weapons like knives, swords, or broken glass also get rejected because they could injure handlers.
Second, think about everyday things that turn into hazards when shipped. Batteries, especially lithium‑ion cells, need special packaging and labeling. If you send a phone, laptop, or power bank, make sure the battery is protected from short circuits and the package meets the carrier’s weight limits.
Third, there are items that are legal but heavily regulated. Alcohol, tobacco, and some medicines require age verification, proper labeling, and sometimes a special permit. Sending a bottle of wine across state lines without the right paperwork can result in the package being returned or confiscated.
How to Pack and Declare Restricted Goods
When you do have to ship a restricted item, the key is proper packaging. Use sturdy boxes, cushion the item with bubble wrap, and seal everything tightly. For fragile or hazardous goods, add “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” stickers and place the item in a secondary container if the carrier allows.
Always fill out the customs declaration accurately if you’re shipping internationally. List the exact contents, value, and purpose (sale, gift, sample). Missed details can lead to customs holding the package or charging extra fees.Many carriers offer online tools that tell you if an item is allowed. Before you head to the drop‑off point, run a quick check on the carrier’s website. If the item is on a restricted list, you’ll see alternative shipping options or required steps.
Lastly, keep the receipt and tracking number handy. If a package gets delayed because of a restriction, you’ll need proof of what you shipped and when. This makes it easier to claim a refund or resolve a dispute.
Bottom line: read the carrier’s guidelines, pack smart, and declare honestly. A few minutes of prep prevents a costly surprise later on.
Wondering if you can still send a regular letter or package to another country? This article unpacks what counts as regular mail, how international shipping works, and what rules you need to follow. Get simple tips for avoiding delays and nasty surprises at customs. Learn about usable packaging, how much it’ll cost, and the essential things most people miss. Feel confident next time you pop into the post office or fill out that customs form.
May, 3 2025