Gratebay · Prohibited & restricted goods

What we can and cannot ship

A clear list beats a surprise at the border. If you are unsure about a product line, send us the listing link before you order — a two-minute check is cheaper than a seized shipment.

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Never accepted

These are refused regardless of destination or paperwork.

Illegal drugs and precursors

Including controlled medicines without import licences.

Weapons and ammunition

Firearms, parts, functional replicas, ammunition and explosives.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Anything infringing a trademark or copyright. Replicas are always refused.

Live animals, plants and soil

Also ivory, protected species products and untreated animal by-products.

Currency and precious metals

Cash, bearer instruments, and unmounted bullion or stones.

Human remains, obscene material

No exceptions, no discussion.

Restricted — case by case

Sometimes possible with the right documentation and the right route. Ask before you buy.

Batteries & battery-powered goods

Power banks, e-bikes, Bluetooth speakers and other built-in lithium batteries do not travel on our general-goods channels.

Liquids, powders and aerosols

Cosmetics, paints, adhesives, cleaning products and supplements — restrictions vary by mode and destination.

Magnets and strong magnetic goods

Nail magnets, magnetic toys and speakers are often classed as dangerous goods for air freight.

Knives and bladed items

Kitchen knives and craft tools depend on the destination's rules and the carrier's policy.

Branded goods

Accepted after authenticity verification; document the brand in the invoice so clearance is straightforward.

Food, supplements, cosmetics and medical devices

Usually need labelling, certificates or a licence in the destination country.

What we ask you to do

Check before you order. Send the product link and destination country — we answer the same day.
Describe goods truthfully. We will not mis-declare a product to slip past customs.
Tell us about certification needs early: CE, UKCA, FCC, EN71 for toys, MSDS for chemicals.
Keep the seller’s listing and chat. If a supplier ships something different from what was listed, the evidence matters.

This page summarises the main categories, not every customs rule. The full contractual list is in our terms of service, and our team will always tell you when a product needs a closer look.

Frequently asked questions

Straight answers — no small print games. Our full policies are on the terms page.

What happens if a banned item arrives?

We photograph it, tell you the same day and hold it at your instruction. It can be returned to the seller in China, collected by a courier you nominate, or disposed of locally. It is never loaded onto a shipment.

Do you check every parcel for prohibited items?

Yes — that is part of the 1-on-1 inspection. Anything questionable is flagged before it becomes your problem at a foreign border.

Why do you refuse counterfeit goods?

Because they are seized and destroyed, and they expose you and us to legal action. Original branded goods are accepted after the authenticity is verified; replicas never are.

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