Prohibited Items: What You Can’t Ship from France

Shopping from France can be exciting — unique products, local brands, and exclusive offers. But before you hit “buy,” it’s important to understand that not all items can be shipped internationally. Certain goods are restricted or prohibited by carriers and customs for safety, legal, or regulatory reasons.

Knowing what you can’t send helps avoid delays, fines, or returned shipments. Here’s a complete guide to keep your parcels safe and compliant.

Why Some Items Are Prohibited

Parcels may be rejected or stopped by carriers or customs for several reasons:

Safety risks: Items that are flammable, explosive, or otherwise dangerous.
Legal restrictions: Products that are illegal or restricted in certain countries.
Customs regulations: Food, plants, and certain chemicals may not be allowed across borders.

By following the rules, you help ensure your package arrives safely and on time.

Common Prohibited Items

1. Dangerous or Hazardous Products

Flammable liquids or aerosols (paint, lighter fluid, fuel)
Fireworks, explosives, or ammunition
Gas canisters and pressurized containers

2. Liquids, Chemicals & Cosmetics

Perfumes and nail polish containing alcohol
Bleach, solvents, and other corrosive substances
Oils and adhesives classified as hazardous

3. Food & Plants

Fresh food, meat, dairy, and perishable items
Seeds, live plants, or soil (restricted by many countries)

4. Valuables & Sensitive Items

Cash, checks, or credit cards
Precious stones, gold, or valuable jewelry
Passports, ID cards, or sensitive documents

5. Other Restricted Items

Batteries (especially loose lithium batteries)
Drugs, narcotics, or illegal substances
Weapons, replicas, or parts of weapons

Tips to Avoid Problems

Check with your carrier: Different carriers have slightly different rules. We work with trusted carriers like Chronopost, UPS, and La Poste, all of which have clear restrictions.
Check your country’s customs rules: Some items may be allowed in France but restricted in your destination country.
Ask before you send: If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, contact us. We’ll guide you to avoid costly mistakes.

Conclusion

Being aware of prohibited items is key to a smooth shipping experience. At BoxShip, we make it easy to ship from France safely and confidently. Follow the rules, and your parcels will arrive quickly and securely!