Whether an item can travel depends on aviation-security rules, the carrier, route, destination law, packaging and quantity. Always describe the contents accurately and ask UK Cargo Service to check anything uncertain before you pack or hand it over.
Items that need particular attention
The following examples are not exhaustive and are not a list of accepted goods:
- Lithium batteries, power banks and battery-powered devices
- Liquids, aerosols, perfumes, paints, solvents and flammable products
- Compressed gases, corrosive, toxic or infectious substances
- Medicines, medical samples and controlled substances
- Food, plants, seeds, animal products and other goods subject to import controls
- Weapons, ammunition, explosives, fireworks and illegal goods
- Cash, jewellery, high-value goods and irreplaceable documents
- Fragile, perishable, unusually large or unusually heavy items
Some goods may be prohibited; others may require specific packaging, documents or prior approval. Do not conceal a restricted item or describe it vaguely.
Pack for normal cargo handling
- Use a strong outer container suitable for the weight.
- Protect contents from movement and impact.
- Seal packages securely without covering required labels.
- Keep each piece within the weight and size agreed in the quotation.
- Remove old labels and barcodes from reused packaging.
Ask before acceptance
Send a clear description, brand or model where relevant, quantity, and whether an item contains a battery, liquid or other regulated component. UK Cargo Service will advise whether the enquiry can proceed or whether more information is required.
Do not use ordinary email for passports, identity numbers, payment-card details or sensitive documents. Call or email first if documentation needs to be discussed.