All the items you cannot ship on the Amazon C2S2 programmes

The Amazon C2S2 (Cross-Border Shipment to Store) programmes are designed to make inventory seamless across international borders, particularly between the UK and EU. These programmes aim to simplify the customs clearance process, and ensure that sellers can efficiently reach customers in different countries through the Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) network.

These programmes are great for sellers with an eye on global expansion into the UK and EU, as they reduce the logistical challenges and costs associated with cross-border shipping.

However, certain restricted items cannot be shipped (some with caveats) when you use the Amazon C2S2 programmes via AVASK.

What types of items are prohibited for shipping?

Food, perishable, animal and organic products

• Food products or perishable goods* such as fruit and vegetables, raw meat and fish and fresh dairy products are generally not accepted, because of their short shelf life and potential spoilage during transit. However, depending on the ingredients, some may be allowed.

• Living plant products such as live plants, seeds, and cut flowers are often restricted because they can carry pests, diseases, or invasive species that could harm local ecosystems. Many countries require a phytosanitary certificate to prevent this and ensure the plants are free from harmful organisms.
• Animal fur, skins, or similar articles are prohibited because of ethical concerns and regulations surrounding the trade of animal products.
• Products of animal origin, such as meat, dairy, and other animal-derived products, are restricted due to health and safety regulations.
• Products that need an export health certificate to confirm they meet the health and safety standards of the destination country. This is common for animal products, plants, and food items. The certification helps prevent the spread of diseases and ensures the products are safe for consumption or use.
• Live animals: Shipping live animals is prohibited due to welfare concerns and regulatory restrictions.
• Organic products are those produced without synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Shipping these products often requires special certification to verify their organic status, ensuring that the products meet the organic standards of the destination country. The certification also prevents fraud or mislabelling.
• Plants or seeds are restricted due to agricultural regulations and the risk of introducing invasive species.

High-value and personal goods; money

• Articles of large value, such as art, antiques, precious jewellery, and gold, are not accepted to mitigate the risk of loss or damage during shipping.
• Personal items are not accepted as they do not fall under the commercial shipping category. These are things typically used by an individual, like clothing, toiletries, and personal electronics. This is because of possible safety concerns (e.g. lithium batteries in electronics), value, or regulations on specific goods like alcohol or tobacco.
• Money or banknotes are not accepted to prevent potential financial loss.

Goods that are restricted for ethical, legal, safety or health reasons

• Tobacco and tobacco products are restricted due to health regulations and legal restrictions on the sale and distribution of tobacco products.
• Firearms or weapons are strictly prohibited for legal and safety reasons.
• Pornographic materials are prohibited due to legal and ethical considerations.
• Dangerous goods and hazardous materials, which range from explosives and gases to flammable, radioactive, toxic, and corrosive materials. These are restricted due to safety concerns. GOV.UK has a full list of the dangerous goods and hazardous materials classifications. They must follow IATA regulations for Express and Expedited shipping and ADR regulations for Standard shipping.

Adhering to these restrictions can ensure a smooth and compliant shipping process with AVASK on the Amazon C2S2 programmes.

*This list was expanded from the original 12 items on 6 March 2025.