Can You Ship Nonperishable Foods Internationally?

If you’re planning to send a care package filled with delicious treats to your loved ones living abroad, it’s important to know what foods can and cannot be shipped overseas. Sending nonperishable foods internationally is generally allowed, but there are a few things you should know.

The first thing you should do when shipping anything internationally is to check to see if the contents of your package are on the general list of prohibited or restricted items. Nonperishable foods are not, so your next step will be to check the import regulations of the destination country, as some countries may have very specific food import regulations. For example, Spain prohibits the import of food containing any amount of saccharin. For a list of specific restrictions and prohibitions by country, visit the USPS website.

Once you’ve confirmed that the destination country allows the importation of nonperishable food, you should make sure that the food you’re shipping is considered nonperishable, meaning it’s unlikely to spoil in transit. Nonperishable foods suitable for international shipping typically include dry and packaged foods with a long shelf life (more than 6 months from the date of shipment) that do not require a temperature-controlled environment (refrigerated, chilled, or frozen). Examples include canned goods, dry cookies, dried fruit and nuts, dried pasta, coffee, tea, dry cake mixes, many types of snacks and candy, cereals, etc. Foods with a shelf life of less than six months are generally considered perishable.

Note that homemade nonperishable foods generally cannot be shipped overseas because they do not contain preservatives. Food must be store-bought and in its original packaging, which must be sealed and not tempered with. Food must also have a label that clearly states all ingredients and a “use by” date, otherwise your package may be confiscated by customs. You should also keep in mind that there are separate rules and restrictions for shipping liquids overseas. You should also avoid shipping items that must be kept upright and cannot be turned over, as there is no guarantee that your package will remain upright throughout international transit.

When shipping food items overseas, it is important to ensure that your package is properly packed and that the customs declaration is properly completed. Wrap each item individually for maximum protection, and be sure to add sufficient cushioning material and seal the box with heavy-duty packing tape that will protect the contents from moisture.

When completing the customs declaration, list all food items in the package, including brand names, quantity, and cost. If you purchase and print your own shipping label, your shipping label will double as your customs declaration. We recommend that you print an extra copy and place it inside the package in case something happens to the shipping label in transit. You should also make sure that the recipient’s contact information, including phone number, is included on the shipping label/customs declaration, as they may be contacted by customs officials regarding the package.