Overview
These lists are not exhaustive. Rules are set by international transport regulations (for example, for air transport of dangerous goods), by the laws of origin, transit and destination countries, and by our own carriers. If in doubt, ask us first.
The sender is responsible for correctly identifying, classifying, packing and declaring the contents of every shipment.
Prohibited items
We will not accept these items under any service:
- Explosives, fireworks, flares, ammunition and blank cartridges.
- Firearms, weapons, replicas and parts, unless specifically approved under a separate agreement and permitted by law.
- Flammable liquids and solids, such as fuels, lighter fluid, matches and some paints and solvents.
- Compressed gases, including aerosols not permitted for transport, gas cylinders and fire extinguishers.
- Toxic, infectious and radioactive substances.
- Corrosives, such as acids, alkalis and wet-cell batteries.
- Illegal drugs, narcotics and drug paraphernalia.
- Cash, banknotes, coins in circulation, bearer bonds and other negotiable instruments.
- Live animals, human remains and ashes.
- Counterfeit goods and items that infringe intellectual property rights.
- Any item whose carriage, import or export is prohibited by law.
Restricted items
These items may be accepted only on certain services and routes, with prior approval, and often with specific packaging, labelling and paperwork:
- Lithium batteries and devices containing them (see below).
- Perfumes, aftershaves and other alcohol-based cosmetics.
- Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping liquids.
- Food, plant material, seeds and animal products, which are often subject to biosecurity controls.
- Medicines, prescription drugs and medical devices.
- Magnetised materials and dry ice.
- Jewellery, precious metals, watches, artwork and other high-value items.
- Documents of value, such as passports and original certificates.
- Items subject to export controls or sanctions.
Lithium batteries
Lithium batteries are classed as dangerous goods for air transport. Rules depend on the battery type (lithium ion or lithium metal), its watt-hour rating or lithium content, and whether it is packed alone, packed with equipment or contained in equipment.
- Loose or spare lithium batteries are frequently not accepted, or need special handling.
- Batteries installed in a device are more commonly accepted, subject to size limits and protection against accidental activation.
- Damaged, defective or recalled batteries must not be shipped.
Tell us about any lithium batteries when you book so we can confirm whether the shipment can be accepted on your route.
Destination rules
Each country has its own list of prohibited and restricted imports. For example, Australia has strict biosecurity requirements, and many countries restrict medicines, food and certain electronics. Check the destination country's rules, and see our customs guide.
If an item is not allowed
If we discover a prohibited or undeclared restricted item, we may refuse, hold, return or, where required by law, dispose of the shipment or hand it to the relevant authorities. Additional charges may apply, and the sender may be responsible for any resulting costs or penalties. See our Service Terms.
This page is a general template provided for information. It is not legal advice, and Transvera Logistics should have it reviewed by qualified counsel for each jurisdiction it operates in. If anything here is unclear, please contact us.