How to pack liquids for shipping?

Liquid transportation differs from the transportation of other goods. Once a liquid breaks, it can cause irreparable damage. Therefore, robust packaging is extremely important for liquid transportation. Proper packaging is key to preventing leaks, damage, or customs issues. For any liquid transportation, we recommend at least two layers of packaging on top of the original packaging. The following are detailed packaging steps before liquid transportation:

1. Original Container Packaging

Use leak-proof bottles and jars, leaving some space at the top to allow the liquid to expand due to changes in air pressure or temperature—this is especially important for air freight or trans-climate transport. Seal the caps with strong tape to prevent accidental opening. If the original container is flimsy, consider repackaging the liquid into stronger containers.

2. Second Layer of Waterproof Packaging

Wrap each container in a sealable waterproof bag or vacuum seal it to enhance leak protection during transport. This extra measure helps prevent liquid spillage and avoids damage to other packaging.

3. Third layer of sturdy outer packaging

Place the bottles in a cardboard box, using dividers to keep them upright and separated from each other. For safety and durability, it's best to use a sturdy corrugated cardboard box. Then, fill all gaps inside the box with cushioning materials such as bubble wrap or foam pellets to prevent the liquid containers from shifting during transportation and handling, which could otherwise lead to damage or breakage. You can also add paper towels or absorbent pads to absorb any possible leaks and protect other containers inside the box. Finally, cover the top of the box and seal it with several layers of tape to enhance its shock and pressure resistance.

4. Labeling

Clearly affix "Fragile" and "Liquid" labels to the packaging. If necessary, don't forget to add "Flammable" or "Perishable" labels so the courier knows to handle the package with care. Affix shipping and destination labels to the top of the packaging for easy identification and correct delivery. For temperature-sensitive products, be sure to use cooling packs or other refrigeration methods.

5. Comply with the carrier's transportation rules

Different carriers have different packaging and transportation requirements for liquids. If you are packing the liquids yourself, please check the regulations of the carrier you have chosen regarding liquid transportation. Also, please note that the above packaging steps are only applicable to non-hazardous goods. If you need to transport hazardous goods or you are unsure of the carrier's liquid transportation rules, it is recommended that you choose a professional logistics agent to handle your liquid packages. You only need to hand over the liquids to be shipped to them, and they will take care of everything for you.

Major carriers' rules for shipping liquids

For international liquid shipping, different carriers have their own shipping requirements. For your convenience, we have briefly explained the liquid shipping rules of the three major international logistics carriers here:

USPS

First, you should seal non-hazardous and non-flammable liquid products in their packaging. Then, affix a label; you not only need to affix the label but also indicate the product's ingredients and mark the container with a directional arrow indicating which end should face upwards. If you want to send nail polish or products containing alcohol, you cannot use USPS. Containers of liquids larger than four ounces should be triple-packed with absorbent material between each layer; this restriction does not apply if the container is metal. USPS prohibits the shipment of dangerous goods such as gasoline, paint thinner, and perfumes and nail polish containing alcohol. You also cannot send alcoholic beverages through the USPS.

UPS

This courier company doesn't have specific regulations for shipping liquids. Even so, you still need to understand how to ship liquids with UPS. First, you must ship liquids in sealed, leak-proof containers and wrap them with absorbent material to prevent leaks. UPS recommends using multiple layers of packaging materials, such as bubble wrap, foam padding, wrapping paper, and cushioning materials like inflatable plastic bags. Second, similar to the United States Postal Service (USPS), UPS also recommends affixing directional arrows or "this side up" labels to the outer packaging, and you must also affix warning labels when shipping flammable items. If you plan to ship liquids by air, avoid using glass bottles.  In addition, UPS can transport a wider range of liquids than USPS, including flammable liquids such as gasoline, propane, perfumes, and essential oils. Alcohol can also be transported via UPS if you have the appropriate permits and a shipping agreement. However, this only applies to shipments within the United States; many countries do not allow small-volume shipments of alcohol or flammable substances.

FedEx

First, liquid containers must be leak-proof, such as with screw caps, and you must also seal the packaging with tape. FedEx recommends multi-layered packaging, with bottles placed upright and absorbent material between layers. Fragile containers, such as glass perfume bottles, should be wrapped with shock-absorbing materials such as bubble wrap. Temperature-sensitive liquids should be wrapped with insulating materials. Hazardous or flammable liquids must be labeled on the outer packaging. Alcoholic beverages must be properly labeled and require an adult signature upon receipt.

Shipping requirements for different types of liquids

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a document that provides information about the potential hazards of a chemical or substance and how to handle it safely. An MSDS typically includes information such as the physical and chemical properties of the liquid, the health hazards associated with the substance, and the precautions to be taken when handling the liquid. Preparing an MSDS can prevent your items from being rejected or returned. Below, I will list which items require an MSDS for shipping and which do not.  If you are unsure whether you need an MSDS, please contact ChinaDivison.

FAQs

1. Can I mail alcohol?

Yes, provided you are approved and have the relevant licenses.

2. Which carriers can ship a wider variety of liquids?

Generally, UPS and FedEx allow a wider variety of liquids to be shipped than the United States Postal Service. If you are unsure whether it can be shipped, please consult a professional logistics expert.

Reference:

1. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHIPPING LIQUIDS INTERNATIONALLY

https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-hk/logistics-advice/import-export-advice/everything-you-need-to-know-about-shipping-liquids-internationally

2. How to ship non-hazardous, non-dangerous liquids

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/how-to-ship-liquids.html