Prohibited Items
Check what you are packing before sending a barrel, box or other cargo from the UK to the Caribbean. Some items are unsafe for sea freight, while others need permits or may be barred at the destination.
Do not pack these in an ordinary barrel or box
Fire, explosion and pressure hazards
- Fireworks, ammunition, explosives, flares and similar articles.
- Petrol, diesel, lighter fuel, paraffin, solvents, paint thinners and other flammable liquids.
- Gas cylinders, camping gas, compressed gases and aerosols such as spray paint.
- Matches, firelighters and other easily ignited materials.
Chemicals and hazardous substances
- Bleach, strong acids, drain cleaner, paint stripper and other corrosives.
- Pesticides, poisons, weed killers, toxic or radioactive materials.
- Leaking, unidentified or improperly labelled chemicals.
Unlawful or controlled goods
- Illegal drugs and any goods prohibited by UK or destination law.
- Firearms, imitation firearms, weapons and ammunition must never be included in ordinary personal-effects cargo; ask about specialist arrangements and permits separately.
- Products from protected wildlife or endangered species without the required authorisations.
Living and perishable contents
- Live animals or insects.
- Fresh, chilled or frozen food and goods that can spoil, leak or attract pests.
- Soil, compost, plants, seeds and untreated plant material unless specifically cleared with the relevant authorities and us.
Check with us before you pack
These items are not all automatically banned by law. Their acceptance can depend on the transport classification, carrier policy, permits and destination:
- Batteries and powered devices: lithium batteries, power banks, e-bikes, scooters, tools and equipment containing batteries must be declared in advance. Do not conceal loose batteries inside other goods.
- Food and drink: even sealed or tinned food can be restricted by destination rules. Ask us before packing any food, alcohol or tobacco.
- Medicines, cosmetics and liquids: prescription medicines, perfumes, nail products, cleaning fluids and other liquids may need checks or may be unsuitable for ordinary cargo.
- Vehicles and machinery: declare fuel, batteries and any dangerous substances; we will advise on the applicable shipping process.
- Cash and valuables: do not place cash, precious metals, jewellery, important documents or irreplaceable items in a barrel or box without discussing the risk and any applicable service terms.
- Animal products and agricultural goods: meat, dairy, pet food, skins, wood, seeds and plants may require permits or be prohibited at the destination.
Before collection
List the actual items, quantities and approximate values. Include batteries, liquids and any new goods.
Send photos and details of any item that could be restricted. Wait for written confirmation before packing it.
Complete the shipping forms and retain invoices, permits or supporting documents required for customs clearance.
Official guidance
Sea freight dangerous goods are governed by the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. For destination import rules, check the relevant customs authority. Useful starting points include:
- International Maritime Organization: dangerous goods by sea
- UK government: moving dangerous goods
- Jamaica Customs: prohibited items and restricted items
- Grenada Customs and Excise Division
These links help you start checking requirements. They do not replace confirmation for your specific cargo and destination.
Not sure about an item?
Tell us exactly what it is, how much you are sending and where it is going. We can advise whether the proposed shipping service can accept it before you book.