How is it possible to send food to other countries?

I heard that sending food to other countries, especially Australia, is prohibited. But still there are people doing it, and do so successfully.

How do you/they do that? It is not recommended that we mis-declare on customs form because that would bring us trouble that we never ask for. How is it being done?

asked almost 12 years ago

2 Answers

If it prohibited, and is being done, it is being done covertly, thus ignoring Australia’s Dept Of Agriculture laws. No matter how it is being done, it is not allowed. I would imagine if sellers are doing this, they just have not been caught yet. My guess is that they mis label the customs forms.
Here is a link to what can’t be mailed to Australia
[URL removed]

answered almost 12 years ago

1 Comment

nantecscishop says: May 31, 2013

Thank you very much for your response. Yes, the shipper would have to pay a high fee if they are caught. What about human canned food and sealed in plastic packaging such as chocolate bar, chocolate drinks, supplements, all of which are non-meat, less than 10% dairy, not raw and not live?

It really does depend on the food item, its shelf life and how you plan to package it.

Dried packet food items should be ok, but customs regulations are country specific. Canned Food will be heavy to post.

Keep in mind the heat of the parcel – chocolate may melt and spoil in the post.

Some parcels take more than 3 weeks to arrive by airmail.

Make it very clear in your item descriptions that parcels will be held by customs and any duty tax is to be paid by buyer.

Australia – No meat, seeds or nuts, fruit, vegetables (fresh or dried), eggs, dairy or packaged food with more than 10% dairy, no cake mix.

doesnt leave much to import. Australia is very strict tho.

Good Luck.

answered almost 12 years ago

2 Comments

nantecscishop says: June 03, 2013

Yesterday a seller said factory-packed food are easier to be accepted, and be sure to be honest when declaring the form. He has been selling prohibited food to Australian buyers for 4 years. But still I find it how it works. Prohibited, but accepted if honest. Hmm.

nantecscishop says: June 03, 2013

I should not worry too much as long as I clearly state that parcels held by customs and any duty tax is to be paid by buyer? Buyers are to pay for the fine should the customs destroy or fumigate the parcels? Buyers are responsible to check on their own country’s laws before buying?

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