Forbidden Goods for International Moving
When planning an international move, you’re already juggling dozens of tasks like paperwork, packing and logistics. But have you ever considered that some everyday items in your home might actually be illegal to ship?
An international move comes with more than just boxes and documents. It also involves strict rules and restrictions that vary by country. Certain dangerous goods are either restricted or completely forbidden from being transported by road, sea or air. These laws are in place to protect people, cargo and the environment. Ignoring them can lead to serious legal consequences.
That’s why Gosselin is more than a transport partner. We guide you through every step of your international move with care, clarity and decades of experience. Our goal is to make sure your international move is smooth, safe and free from unpleasant surprises.
So, what exactly is forbidden?
For your international move, all aerosols and compressed gas cylinders are classified as dangerous goods and are strictly forbidden. These forbidden goods include:
- Air fresheners
- Body sprays
- Deodorant cans
- Camping gas cylinders
- Cigarette lighters
Highly flammable liquids are among the most common forbidden goods in any international move. Avoid shipping these dangerous goods:
- Household cleaning products
- Solvents and paint thinners
- Flammable liquids of any kind
Toner and ink cartridges may seem harmless but are classified as restricted dangerous goods in many countries and are considered forbidden goods during an international move.
- Toner cartridges
- Ink cartridges
Certain dangerous goods are strictly prohibited in any international move. These high-risk items can’t be shipped by road, sea, or air and must be left out of your international relocation.
- Explosives (e.g. fireworks, ammunition, fuses)
- Radioactive materials
- Oxidizing substances & organic peroxides (e.g. bleach)
- Corrosive substances (e.g. batteries, acids, mercury thermometers)
- Toxic & infectious substances (e.g. pesticides, poisons, insecticides)
- Miscellaneous dangerous goods (e.g. asbestos, dry ice, magnetized materials)
During your international move, certain restricted goods may not be allowed across borders due to customs regulations and shipping restrictions. These restricted items can delay your shipment or be refused entry entirely. To ensure a smooth and compliant international move, it’s important to identify all restricted goods in advance and understand destination-specific customs rules.
Restricted goods include:
- Animal products (e.g. furs, ivory, non-domesticated skins, live animals)
- Perishable goods, plants and seeds (e.g. foodstuffs, pills, vitamins, medicines)
- Money and high-value items (e.g. cash, jewellery, prepaid cards, antiques, artworks, precious stones)
- Liquids, tobacco and tobacco products (e.g. alcoholic beverages, cigarettes)
- Pornographic material