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In the work of freight forwarders, the term "sensitive goods" is frequently used. But what types of goods fall under this category, and what should be noted when handling them?
In the international logistics industry, goods are typically classified into three categories: prohibited items, sensitive goods, and general goods. Prohibited items are strictly forbidden for shipment, sensitive goods must be transported in strict compliance with regulations, and general goods can be shipped normally.
The definition of sensitive goods is relatively complex, as they fall between general goods and prohibited items. In international shipping, there is a strict distinction between sensitive goods and banned goods.
"Sensitive goods" generally refer to items subject to legal inspection (statutory inspection), including those listed in the inspection catalog (with export control code "B") and non-listed goods requiring inspection. Examples include:
Animals, plants, and their byproducts
Food, beverages, and alcohol
Certain minerals and chemical products (especially hazardous materials)
Cosmetics, fireworks, lighters
Wood and wooden products (including wooden furniture)
Typically, sensitive goods are not outright banned but are strictly controlled by customs. They can still be safely exported and cleared through customs, usually requiring:
Relevant test reports
Specialized packaging (suited to their properties)
A reliable freight forwarder with experience in handling such shipments
Battery-Powered Items
Batteries and goods containing batteries (e.g., electronics) are prone to spontaneous combustion or explosion, making them restricted but not prohibited.
Required documents: MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), UN38.3 (DOT) certification.
Strict packaging and handling procedures apply.
Food & Medicines
Processed foods, health supplements, seasonings, grains, oilseeds, beans, hides, etc.
Traditional Chinese medicine, biochemical drugs, and chemical drugs may involve biosecurity risks.
Required documents: Fumigation certificate (a type of CIQ certification) to prevent pest transmission.
Optical Discs, CDs, & Publications
Books, CDs, films, or storage media containing politically/economically sensitive content.
Requires official certification from publishers and a letter of guarantee from the exporter.
Powders, Gels & Unstable Substances
Cosmetics, skincare products, essential oils, toothpaste, lipstick, sunscreen, perfumes, etc.
Risk of evaporation, leakage, or explosion during transit.
Required documents: MSDS and commercial inspection report.
Sharp Objects
Kitchen knives, stationery, and hardware tools with sharp edges.
Toy weapons (e.g., replica guns) may be classified as prohibited items.
Counterfeit/Branded Goods
Genuine or imitation branded goods (risk of intellectual property infringement).
Requires "buyer’s customs declaration" (third-party export declaration).
Magnetic Items
Power banks, phones, watches, gaming consoles, electric toys, razors, etc.
Often overlooked as sensitive goods but may interfere with aviation systems.
Since destination countries have varying regulations, sensitive goods require experienced logistics providers for smooth customs clearance. Shipping costs for sensitive goods are typically higher.
