A common question is if it is possible to ship perfume overseas and if so how can it be shipped. In this guide we will answer this question and you will be able to find out how you can pack a perfume bottle so that it satisfies the postal company, courier or mailing firm if you wish to ship it internationally.
How do couriers classify Perfumes for shipping purposes?
The main courier companies such as FedEx, USPS, TNT and DHL classify perfume as a dangerous good (HAZMAT). This is because fragrances and perfumes usually contain alcohol, which is a flammable liquid – it can catch fire.
They are classified as UN 1266 which states “PERFUMERY PRODUCTS with flammable solvents (having a flash- point below 23 °C and viscous according to 2.2.3.1.4) (vapour pressure at 50 °C not more than 110 kPa)“
Related guide – The best perfume stores with worldwide shipping.
What does this mean?
All dangerous goods that are shipped by airmail have to be packaged according to IATA and ICAO regulations and a proper declaration about the item inside made.
How do I correctly pack perfume for shipping?
If you are intending to pack perfume for sending overseas you need to ensure that it is packaged properly.
- Ensure that the lid of the bottle or container is fixed securely to avoid leaks.
- Pack the item in a leak-proof inner package.
- Place the inner package inside a rigid outside package like a box.
- Ensure that any space around the inner package is filled with packing filler to remove any empty space to avoid the package moving around inside.
- Secure the outer package.
- Mark on the outer package what the parcel contains.
The best way to ship perfume is to pack it securely in an airtight box or container and ensure that it is bubble wrapped. Use a strong adhesive tape to secure the box and make sure that all edges are sealed. Place the box in a larger box with packing materials such as foam peanuts, bubble wrap, or newspaper to protect the item during shipping. Finally, make sure to label the box as “Fragile” and “This Side Up” to ensure that your package is handled with care during transit.
How do I make an IATA dangerous good declaration?
The IATA Dangerous Goods Declaration is a document that is used when shipping hazardous materials. It is required for any shipment which contains hazardous goods, and must be completed according to IATA regulations and guidelines. The document includes information on the nature of the hazardous material, the quantity being shipped, the recipient, and more. It is also used to identify any potential risk associated with the transportation of the hazardous goods and to ensure that the shipment is in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
If you need to fill out a declaration form you can find out more information and download the form from the IATA here.
Does this mean I can buy perfume with international shipping?
Yes, many fragrance stores will ship internationally as they know how to properly pack and ship the perfumes to each country. There may be an extra cost to cover any surcharges from the shipping companies to cover the extra costs for the declaration, although in our experience many shops do not charge extra. You can read our guide to buying perfume internationally.
How to find the cheapest shipping company?
If you are in the UK, you can use Parcel2Go to compare delivery companies.
In the USA Shippo allows you to compare and find the cheapest rates for may different shipping companies and carriers.
Have you shipped perfume internationally, do you have any experiences you wish to share with other? Please leave them in the comments section below. Happy international shopping!
Sources:
UN Classification – https://adr-tool.com/627/un-1266
IATA dangerous goods – https://www.iata.org/en/publications/dgr/
TNT FedEx Perfume guidelines – https://www.tnt.com/express/en_nz/site/how-to/ship-perfumes.html
FedEx Dangerous shipping guidelines – https://www.fedex.com/en-us/service-guide/dangerous-goods/how-to-ship.html
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