Free tool
What can't you send in a parcel?
Search the database of prohibited and restricted items. Find out whether you can send batteries, alcohol, a knife or medicines — and if not, why not and what the consequences are.
Why it matters
What happens to a prohibited shipment?
Seizure and confiscation
Customs or the carrier seizes the shipment and confiscates it. Return is not guaranteed — contents may be destroyed without compensation.
Fines and customs charges
Customs may issue fines to the sender and recipient. For dangerous goods (ADR), fines can reach thousands of euros.
Criminal prosecution
Sending drugs, weapons, counterfeits or child pornography is a criminal offence with imprisonment — regardless of who sent the shipment.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can I send lithium batteries by air?
Loose lithium batteries (without a device) are prohibited by air and post. Batteries inside a device (laptop, phone) are permitted provided the capacity does not exceed 100 Wh. DHL, UPS and FedEx generally accept them but may require a declaration.
Can alcohol be sent by courier?
Alcohol up to 70% ABV (wine, beer, whisky) is permitted by road courier (DPD, DHL, GLS) with a maximum of 24 bottles per shipment. By air up to 5 litres only. Post offices generally do not accept alcohol. Alcohol above 70% is classified as a flammable liquid and is prohibited.
What happens if I send a prohibited item?
The shipment may be detained, confiscated or destroyed. The sender and recipient may be fined. For some items (drugs, weapons, counterfeits) criminal prosecution is possible. The carrier bears no responsibility for the contents.
Can I send a knife or pocket knife?
Kitchen and pocket knives are permitted by road transport (they must be safely packaged). By air they are prohibited in hand luggage but permitted in checked baggage. Combat knives and tasers may be prohibited in the destination country.
Do the restrictions apply equally to all carriers?
No. Basic rules derive from ADR and IATA regulations, but each carrier may have stricter internal conditions. For example, national post offices often do not accept alcohol at all, while DPD accepts it in limited quantities. Always check the specific conditions with your carrier.