What cannot be shipped by Canada Post?

Shipping with Canada Post: Know What Can’t Go in the Mail

Canada Post offers a convenient way to ship items across the country and internationally. However, certain restrictions apply to what you can send through their network. Understanding these limitations is crucial to avoid shipment delays, refusals, and potential legal issues. While many everyday items are perfectly acceptable, some goods are either strictly prohibited or require specific handling and documentation. This article outlines the key categories of items you can’t ship with Canada Post, empowering you to prepare your shipments correctly.

Strictly Prohibited Items: These items are never permitted for shipment under any circumstances. They often pose safety risks or are illegal to transport. Common examples include:

• Explosives: This includes fireworks, ammunition, gunpowder, and flares.
• Flammable and Combustible Materials: Gasoline, lighter fluid, paint thinner, and other easily ignitable substances are prohibited.
• Dangerous Goods: This broad category encompasses corrosive materials (like battery acid), toxic substances (like pesticides), and other hazardous chemicals.
• Illegal Drugs and Narcotics: Shipping illegal substances is strictly forbidden and carries severe legal penalties.
• Live Animals (with limited exceptions): While certain invertebrates and day-old chicks can be shipped under specific conditions, most live animals are prohibited. Contact Canada Post for details on permitted live animal shipments.
• Counterfeit Items: Shipping counterfeit goods, including fake designer clothing, handbags, and electronics, is illegal and prohibited by Canada Post.

Restricted and Controlled Items: These items are not outright prohibited but require specific packaging, documentation, and sometimes pre-approval before shipping. Examples include:

• Firearms: Shipping firearms requires strict adherence to federal and provincial regulations, specific packaging, and registration. Contact Canada Post for detailed instructions.
• Ammunition: Similar to firearms, ammunition requires specific packaging and adherence to strict regulations.
• Lithium Batteries: Regulations surrounding lithium batteries are complex and vary depending on the battery type and size. Proper packaging and labeling are essential to prevent fire hazards.
• Perishable Food Items: Shipping perishable goods requires appropriate packaging to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage during transit. Dry ice may be used with specific restrictions.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Shipping alcohol requires adherence to provincial and territorial liquor control board regulations. It’s often restricted to licensed vendors.
• Prescription Medications: While generally permissible for personal use within Canada, shipping prescription medications requires proper labeling and may be subject to quantity restrictions. International shipping is complex and often requires additional documentation.
• Aerosols: Aerosol cans, including hairspray and deodorant, are considered dangerous goods and must be shipped according to specific regulations.

Consequences of Non-Compliance: Attempting to ship prohibited or improperly packaged restricted items can lead to:

• Shipment Refusal: Canada Post will refuse to accept any package containing prohibited items or those not packaged according to regulations.
• Delays: Improperly documented or packaged items can cause delays while Canada Post investigates the contents.
• Fines and Legal Penalties: Shipping illegal items can result in significant fines and even criminal charges.

Always Verify: This information is for general guidance only. Regulations can change, so it’s crucial to verify the latest restrictions and requirements directly with Canada Post before shipping any item. Their website provides comprehensive details and contact information for specific inquiries. Taking the time to understand these regulations will ensure a smooth shipping experience and avoid potential problems.