🇺🇸 What Items Can’t Be Shipped from China to the USA? Prohibited Goods List
When shipping goods from China to the United States, it’s crucial to be aware of items that are prohibited or restricted by U.S. regulations. Failure to comply can result in fines, delays, or confiscation of goods. This guide outlines the key categories of prohibited items, along with tips for ensuring compliance.
🚫 Prohibited Items: What You Can’t Ship
1. Agricultural Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) impose strict regulations on agricultural items to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Prohibited items include:cbp.gov+1nypost.com+1
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Most are not allowed unless accompanied by specific permits.
- Meat and Animal Products: Includes fresh, dried, and some canned meats.cbp.gov+1help.cbp.gov+1
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy items are generally prohibited.
- Plants and Seeds: Many require a phytosanitary certificate and prior approval.
- Soil and Soil-Based Products: Including decorative sand or earth.pe.usps.com+2cbp.gov+2cbp.gov+2
Failure to declare these items can lead to fines up to $1,000 for non-commercial quantities. cbp.gov+1nypost.com+1
2. Hazardous Materials
Certain hazardous materials are prohibited from international shipping:usps.com+1usps.com+1
- Aerosols: Including spray paints and air fresheners.usps.com
- Explosives and Ammunition: All forms are strictly prohibited.
- Flammable Liquids: Such as gasoline and nail polish remover.
- Toxic Substances: Including poisons and mercury.
- Hemp-Based Products: Including cannabidiol (CBD) and marijuana.usps.com
These items are banned by the U.S. Postal Service and other carriers. usps.com
3. Valuables and Currency
Shipping valuable items requires special considerations:
- Currency: Chinese currency is prohibited.
- Precious Metals and Gems: Gold, silver, platinum, and precious stones are restricted.pe.usps.com+1pe.usps.com+1
- Jewelry and Watches: Must be sent via insured services.pe.usps.com+1pe.usps.com+1
- Coins and Banknotes: Including traveler’s checks, unless insured. pe.usps.com+2pe.usps.com+2nypost.com+2
4. Counterfeit and Pirated Items
All forms of counterfeit or pirated goods are prohibited:pe.usps.com
- Fake Brand Products: Including apparel, electronics, and accessories.
- Unauthorized Copies: Such as counterfeit software or media.cbp.gov
These items are subject to seizure and potential legal action.
5. Cigarettes and Tobacco Products
The U.S. Postal Service prohibits the mailing of:
- Cigarettes: Including roll-your-own tobacco.pe.usps.com+1pe.usps.com+1
- Smokeless Tobacco: Such as snuff and chewing tobacco.
- Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems: Including e-cigarettes and vape pens.
✅ Tips for Compliance
- Declare All Items: Always declare all items on customs forms, even if they seem harmless.cbp.gov
- Check Destination Regulations: Each U.S. state may have additional restrictions.
- Use Reputable Carriers: Choose carriers experienced in international shipping.
- Consult CBP Resources: Refer to the CBP Prohibited and Restricted Items page for the most current information.cbp.gov
