Everything you need to know about shipping liquids internationally

In the industry trade, liquids are one of the common types of goods that get transported from one country to another. When it concerns domestic shipping, sending liquids can be a breeze as long as you meet the requirements and ensure that your shipment is well-packaged for transit. However, there are more rules and regulations to follow if you are planning to ship liquids abroad. Certain countries would also have their own stringent policies in place for certain types of liquids like alcohol. In such cases, you have to obtain a special licence on top of the necessary documentation to import them. Failure to meet these regulatory requirements can result in costly delays or even rejection of your shipment.

Whether you're sending cosmetics, perfume, or motor oil, this article will guide you on how to ship your liquids internationally.

Determine if your destination country requires a licence

For starters, every country has their own set of rules and regulations surrounding the imports of liquids. For your first step, be sure to research the country you are importing to, and if there are necessary requirements you must meet before transporting your goods to the destination country. 

For instance, if you are sending liquids to the United States, you must apply for a permit with the Federal Basic Importer for imports of alcohol, wine, or malt beverages. Similarly, a customs permit needs to be obtained in order to ship intoxicating liquors to Singapore. After familiarising yourself with the regulations overseas, set aside some time to prepare the necessary documents and licences beforehand. 

Decide on the type of liquids to ship

In addition, take into account the type of liquids you plan to ship. Liquids are typically categorised into three types: non-flammable, flammable and hazardous. Non-flammable, non-hazardous liquids can be sent by air, so long as they are properly packaged. 

Bear in mind that flammable and hazardous liquids are not allowed to be sent by these methods, and must instead be sent via specialised shipping services. This can include liquids such as nail polish, alcoholic beverages and perfume containing alcohol or poison. Other hazardous substances that are prohibited from being shipped by air include corrosive liquids and biological samples. To learn more about the shipping options available for your type of liquid product, you may speak to our DHL Express experts for professional guidance.

Prepare your packaging liquids

When mailing liquids internationally, it is important to use the right type of packaging. Glass bottles are fragile and can easily break during transit, so it's best to avoid using them if possible or ensure they are adequately cushioned to minimise the risk of damage. Plastics are a safer option, but be sure to use thick, sturdy packaging that can withstand being jostled around during shipping. Some high-quality packaging materials can include:

• Packing peanuts

• Adhesive tape

• Absorbent or insulant containers

• Cellulose wadding

• Bubble wraps

• Corrugated cardboard boxes

Furthermore, you may consider using strong tape to secure all lids and closures. This is especially important for containers that will be subject to movement during shipping, as loose lids can result in leaks. You will also want to include all relevant information about the contents of the package, as well as any special handling instructions that may be necessary. This will help ensure your package is handled correctly throughout the shipping process. 

Find a reliable courier service 

Shipping liquids internationally can be tricky, but as long as you're aware of the various regulations and take some precautions when packing and labelling your shipment, you'll be able to get your products where they need to go without any problems. If this is your first time shipping overseas, a reliable courier service provider like DHL Express can assist you through the entire process.

As a leading logistics courier, DHL Express connects people from 220 countries worldwide. Driven by more than 380,000 employees, we tailor our solutions and integrate services for you so that you won't have to worry about sending liquids internationally. For a seamless delivery of your liquid products and more, open a business account with DHL Express today. For more information, you can learn about international e-commerce for businesses and how to save money on shipping abroad.