What Commodities Are Prohibited From Shipping Through DHL Express?
But before you select DHL’s global network, it’s important to be familiar with their conditions for carriage, specifically their restricted and prohibited items. By being mindful of DHL’s shipping restrictions, you can ensure that your account remains in good standing and, most importantly, that your packages are able to be shipped to your overseas customers.
It’s important to note that DHL’s prohibited items list is subject to change and may vary depending on the country of origin and destination. It’s recommended to check DHL’s current list of prohibited items before shipping your package to ensure compliance with international shipping regulations.
This is often a case of common sense! There are some things DHL Express won’t transport in general, though individual countries may have stricter policies. To review an individual country, visit our DHL Country Import Guidelines Index and find the destination country you have questions about. DHL’s general list of prohibited items includes, but isn’t limited to:
- Dangerous Goods.
- Animals of any kind, including insects, pupae, worms, tortoises, frogs, crabs, lobsters, crawfish, fish, hatching eggs or birds
- Bullion.
- Counterfeit or pirate goods or materials.
- Illegal drugs or narcotics
- Firearms, including parts, weapons, and ammunition
- Human remains, including ashes,
- Negotiable instruments in bearer form
- Pornography of any kind.
- Any items of carriage that are prohibited by any law, regulation, or statute of any federal, state, or local government to or throughout which the shipment may be carried
List Of Prohibited Items

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Are there DHL-restricted countries?
DHL has the right to delay shipments that are flagged during its screening process because the sender or receiver may be a denied party (individual or entity that has been denied shipping privileges by government agencies) or if the content or destination breaches country-based sanctions.
DHL may alert you of changes in these countries through their service bulletins. You can also contact your DHL account manager should you have any questions about shipping to destinations with sensitive conditions.
Stop by your nearest Neighborhood Parcel, DHL Shipping Center, for all your packaging and shipping service needs here: 1215 Main St, Tewksbury MA 01876, or call us at (978) 851-0199