How to deal with sensitive items when small parcels from China are cleared abroad

When small parcels from China are cleared abroad, if sensitive items (such as liquids, powders, batteries, medicines, food, branded goods, etc.) are involved, special attention should be paid to compliance, otherwise they may be detained, returned or destroyed. The following are the handling methods and suggestions:

1. Classify and confirm the type of sensitive items

Different countries have different definitions of sensitive items. Common categories include:

Electronic products/battery-containing items (such as power banks, Bluetooth devices)

Liquids/powders (cosmetics, skin care products)

Food/medicine (snacks, health products, Chinese medicine)

Branded/imitation goods (authorization certificate required)

Sharp items (knives, tools)

Animal and plant products (quarantine certificate required)

Handling suggestions:

Check the official website of the customs of the destination country (such as the US FDA and the EU CE standards) to confirm whether there are restrictions.

Contact the logistics company to confirm the scope of items that can be carried.

2. Compliance declaration and document preparation

Truthful declaration: fill in the name, quantity, and value accurately, and avoid vague expressions (such as “gift” or “sample”).

Special documents:

Batteries: MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and UN38.3 certification (lithium battery) are required.

Food/drugs: Proof of origin and health license are required (some countries require FDA or CE certification).

Branded goods: Authorization or invoice to prove legality.

Note: Under-declaration may trigger inspection, it is recommended that the declared value is consistent with the actual product.

3. Choose a suitable logistics channel

Postal channels (such as EMS, ePacket):

Advantages: Relatively loose customs clearance, suitable for small batches of sensitive goods.

Risks: Random inspections, unstable timeliness.

Commercial express (such as DHL, FedEx):

Advantages: Fast but strict, complete documents must be provided in advance.

Suitable for: sensitive products with complete certification.

Special line logistics:

Some freight forwarders provide “sensitive goods special line” (such as special line for electric products) to reduce risks through special customs clearance channels.

Tip: Be sure to inform the freight forwarder of the details of the items to avoid concealment and detention of goods.

4. Packaging and labeling specifications

Batteries: Individually insulated packaging, with a “lithium battery label” on the outer box.

Liquids/powders: Sealed and leak-proof, in compliance with capacity restrictions (e.g., single bottle ≤100ml).

Fragile items: Strengthen cushioning materials.

Document identification: “Commercial Invoice” and customs clearance contact information are marked on the outer box.

5. Dealing with customs detention or inspection

Timely communication: Cooperate with customs or logistics companies to supplement documents (such as purchase receipts, ingredient descriptions).

Dispute resolution: If the item is compliant but mistakenly detained, you can submit an appeal (evidence must be provided).

Return/destruction: If customs clearance is not possible, some countries allow return (freight must be borne), or choose to destroy it on site.

6. Avoidance of high-risk items

Prohibited items: such as pure batteries, flammable items, weapons, etc., are prohibited from mailing in most countries.

Infringing goods: Imitation brands without brand authorization may be confiscated and fined.

Summary and suggestions

Confirm in advance: verify whether the item can be mailed through the freight forwarder or the customs official website.

Compliance first: ensure that the certification, declaration, and packaging meet the requirements.

Insurance: It is recommended to purchase transportation insurance for high-value items.

Ship separately: sensitive items and general goods are shipped separately to reduce overall risks.

If you are not sure whether the item is sensitive, it is recommended to consult a professional logistics service provider (such as DHL sensitive goods channel, SF Express International, etc.), or choose a customs clearance service.