Prohibited and restricted goods for the USA, Australia and Europe
Table of Contents
Each country has its own import rules, and each shipping method has different safety requirements. Checking before packing helps avoid goods being held, destroyed or subject to unexpected costs.
Goods we do not accept
Prohibited substances, weapons and explosives; counterfeit goods; protected wild animals and plants under CITES; cash, precious metals and stones, valuable securities; obscene material.
Goods requiring destination checks
Europe
Meat and meat products; milk and dairy products; fresh fruit, vegetables and seeds without the required inspection.
USA
Meat products, including meat floss, sausages and meat-filled pastries; edible bird nests; fresh food; medicines of unclear origin and traditional medicines made from roots or leaves.
Australia
Meat, eggs and egg products; seeds and whole spices; herbal teas containing roots or bark; untreated bamboo and wood; soil on personal items.
Requirements by shipping method
Air freight: lithium batteries, aerosols, flammable substances, strong chemicals and magnets have special acceptance conditions. Sea freight: check perishable goods; wooden crates and pallets require ISPM 15 treatment.
Check before packing
Rules may change over time. Send product ingredients and labels to Hamburg Connect before packing so we can check the goods and advise on a suitable shipping method. Conditions depend on the product, intended use, country and transport method.
Official references: European Commission — Personal imports, CBP — Food imports, DAFF — Mailing goods to Australia.