Which cosmetics can and can't you send?
Creams, lotions, make-up, shampoo and other personal care products without dangerous substances can be sent with ParcelParcel as normal.
Some beauty products count as dangerous goods (in Dutch) in transport. ParcelParcel doesn't carry dangerous goods, so you can't send these products with us:
- Perfume, eau de toilette and aftershave
- Nail polish and nail polish remover
- Aerosols, such as deodorant, hairspray and dry shampoo
- Other flammable liquids or products with flammable solvents
Why are perfume and nail polish dangerous goods?
Perfume and nail polish often contain a lot of alcohol or other flammable solvents. That's why they're classified as a flammable liquid (class 3). Aerosols are under pressure and are dangerous goods too.
Transporting these products, especially by air, comes with separate rules for packaging, labels and documents. Do they really need to go? Then ask a freight forwarder that specialises in dangerous goods. Also read more about sending perfume abroad (in Dutch).
Packing liquids: preventing leaks
A box full of leaking products is bad for your brand. Pressure changes during a flight can make pumps, tubes and bottles pop open. So follow this packing standard:
- Seal: screw caps and lids on tightly and seal them with tape or shrink wrap.
- Leak-proof barrier: put liquid products in sealed, waterproof plastic bags (seal bags).
- Absorbent material: put enough absorbent material in the seal bag to soak up any leaks.
- Cushioning: wrap each product in bubble wrap and fill the shipping box tightly, so nothing can move.
You'll find more tips on our page about packing a parcel (in Dutch).
Cosmetics to the US: the FDA rules
The United States is a big market for beauty products. Cosmetics there are overseen by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The MoCRA legislation (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) has tightened the rules.
- Ingredients: cosmetics don't need prior approval in the US, but colour additives are strictly regulated. Check that your ingredients are allowed.
- Registration: under MoCRA, manufacturing facilities and products must be registered with the FDA. Check with your buyer or importer who arranges this.
- Labelling: labels must be in English and state the ingredients, contents and any warnings.
- Customs invoice: on the commercial invoice, describe exactly what the product is, what it's made of and what it's for. Include the correct HS code and the manufacturer's details.
Read more about exporting to the US on shipping a parcel to the US.
Shipping cosmetics reliably with ParcelParcel
Sending samples or wholesale orders without dangerous substances? With ParcelParcel you can easily book with carriers such as FedEx, UPS and DHL. Our support specialists check your customs invoice with you, so your shipment doesn't get held up at the border unnecessarily.
Not sure whether a product counts as dangerous goods? Then contact us before you ship.
