Prohibited Items
EMS International
These items cannot be shipped via Japan Post EMS. Check this list before placing a bid — we cannot ship prohibited goods regardless of destination.
Important: Prohibited item rules vary by destination country. The list below covers general EMS restrictions. Some items may be accepted to certain countries but refused to others. When in doubt, contact us before bidding.
Absolutely prohibited — no exceptions
Explosives & Flammables
- Gunpowder, dynamite, fireworks, signal flares
- Petrol, lighter fluid, paint thinner
- Compressed gases (aerosols, gas canisters)
- Matches, lighters (unless empty & new)
Weapons & Dangerous Items
- Firearms, handguns, rifles, shotguns
- Ammunition and cartridges
- Swords, knives with blades over 6 cm (destination-dependent)
- Stun guns, tasers, pepper spray
Hazardous Materials
- Radioactive substances
- Toxic chemicals and poisons
- Corrosive substances (acids, alkalis)
- Infectious biological substances
Drugs & Narcotics
- Controlled substances and narcotics
- Psychotropic drugs without valid prescription
- Stimulants prohibited in destination country
Currency & Securities
- Banknotes, coins (as a rule)
- Bearer bonds and negotiable instruments
- Lottery tickets
Animals & Organic Matter
- Live animals of any kind
- Human remains or ashes (requires special permit)
- Raw/fresh meat, fish, dairy without CITES permits
Plants & Agriculture
- Seeds and soil without phytosanitary certificate
- Cut flowers to many countries (destination rules apply)
- Invasive species
Obscene & Illegal Content
- Obscene or pornographic material (per destination law)
- Content that incites racial or religious hatred
- Counterfeit goods and pirated media
Conditionally restricted — contact us first
Lithium Batteries
Strict quantity and watt-hour limits apply. Batteries must be installed in devices. Loose spare batteries have very tight restrictions — many countries refuse them entirely.
Cosmetics & Perfumes
Alcohol-based perfumes and nail polish are classified as flammables and may be refused or require special packaging depending on quantity.
Medicines & Supplements
Prescription drugs require documentation. Some supplements legal in Japan are controlled abroad. Always check destination country rules.
Food & Beverages
Processed and packaged foods may be accepted but are subject to customs inspection. Fresh, raw, or perishable items are generally prohibited.
Cultural & Heritage Items
Antiques and cultural property may require Japanese export permits under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties.
Electronics with Large Batteries
Laptops, tablets, and power banks with large lithium batteries may be restricted on certain routes. Watt-hour ratings are checked.
Shipping via FedEx instead?
FedEx has its own list of prohibited and restricted items which differs from EMS. Check our FedEx prohibited items page before bidding.