O que se pode enviar por correio e o que não? Guia prático 2026

Have you ever wondered what can and can’t be sent by mail? Sending a parcel by post or courier is part of everyday life, but it’s essential to understand the regulations that govern what can and cannot be transported.

In this post, we offer you a step-by-step guide to help you find out:

• Which items are completely prohibited;
• Which ones are subject to specific restrictions; and
• Which objects you can send without any issues.

This guide will help you prepare your shipments safely, whether you’re sending as an individual or managing shipments in a professional context.

Which items are prohibited from being sent by mail?

There are products that are completely prohibited by postal operators and courier companies. The reasons are related to safety, public health, international transport regulations, and local and international legislation, such as the legal framework that regulates prohibited items in postal shipments.

Sending these types of products can lead to serious consequences, ranging from the retention or destruction of the parcel to financial penalties and even criminal liability.

Which items are completely prohibited from being sent?

• Illegal or psychotropic substances
• Firearms, ammunition, or explosives
• Radioactive, corrosive, or toxic materials
• Cash and bearer cheques
• Live animals or human remains
• Counterfeit or stolen goods

Please note that this list may vary depending on the legal restrictions of each country. If you want to check the full list of prohibited items, visit our dedicated page on prohibited shipping items.

What restrictions apply to sending certain items by mail?

Some products can be shipped, but only if specific conditions regarding packaging, labelling, documentation, and transport are met. These restrictions usually stem from international regulations (such as IATA rules for air shipments), health requirements, or customs regulations.

For example, in international shipments customs clearance may be mandatory, even for low-value parcels. Tax authorities provide detailed guidance on how to proceed correctly.

Items with shipping restrictions

• Liquids and cosmetics

These products may contain alcohol or other flammable components. They must be shipped in limited quantities, using approved packaging and protection against leaks.

Real case: A customer wanted to send a perfume as a birthday gift to her sister in Germany. She did not declare that it contained alcohol. The shipment was held at customs and returned with an additional €25 charge for failing to comply with air transport restrictions.

• Lithium batteries (mobile phones, laptops, power banks)

They are subject to restrictions due to potential fire risk. Prior declaration is required and, when not installed in the device, they must be packed separately.

Real case: An e-commerce business shipped a laptop with the lithium battery loose inside the same parcel, without proper protection. The shipment was stopped at the airport due to fire risk and returned to the sender, causing delays and extra costs.

• Food and beverages

Regulations generally allow these products only if they are properly preserved, packaged, and non-perishable. Homemade food and fresh products are not permitted.

• Medicines

These require supporting documentation or a prescription. Shipments of unidentified medicines are not accepted.

• High-value electronics

It is recommended to insure these items and protect them with cushioning material. A declared value may also be required.

If you want to review the full list of restricted items, visit our page on items subject to shipping restrictions.

What can be sent by mail without any issues?

Many items can be shipped without complications, provided that basic requirements are met and no special handling is required.

Which items can be sent without problems?

• Clothing, textiles, and footwear

Ideal for personal or e-commerce shipments. The use of durable bags and boxes is recommended.

• Books, documents, and magazines

Fully suitable for postal shipping, as long as they do not contain sensitive information.

• Personal gifts

Toys, stationery, or decorative items are allowed provided they are properly packaged.

• Small household appliances

Headphones, hair dryers, or toasters can be shipped without issues if protected with cushioning material.

What happens if I accidentally send a prohibited item?

Sending non-permitted items may result in:

• Retention or destruction of the shipment
• Handling or return costs
• Notification of the authorities

Even if done unintentionally, shipping prohibited items may have legal or financial consequences.

What items cannot be sent by courier?

Although we have already detailed prohibited and restricted products, many people still wonder what cannot be sent by courier, especially when it comes to international shipments or uncommon items.

In summary, prohibited items are usually related to:

• Safety risks (explosives, weapons, flammable substances)
• Public health (medicines without prescription, homemade food)
• Legal regulations (counterfeit goods, cash)
• Specific rules of each country or carrier

To avoid any issues, it is always advisable to check current regulations or consult the logistics operator directly before shipping.

Summary table: what can and can’t be sent by mail

Below is a summary table with common item types and whether they can be shipped, as well as whether special conditions are required:

Avoid problems with your mail shipments

Avoid legal issues or delays by ensuring your shipment complies with all national and international regulations. If you still have questions, at MBE we can help you prepare your shipment correctly. Visit our website to send us an enquiry or find your nearest MBE centre.