Prohibited & Restricted Items
What Items Can't Be Sent with Parcel Flow?
To keep our UK parcel forwarding network safe, efficient, and fully compliant with UK & EU laws, some items cannot be shipped through our system. These rules are set according to EU and UK courier regulations and apply to all routes including parcels moving from Great Britain to the EU under post-Brexit trade rules.
If you're ever unsure whether your item qualifies, please email our support team at info@parcelflow.co.uk before booking your shipment.
Dangerous Goods (Not Accepted)
Items that pose risks during transport are classified as dangerous goods and are strictly prohibited.
These include:
- Explosives or fireworks (including ammunition, flares, igniters, and blasting caps)
- Compressed gases such as butane, propane, or oxygen cylinders
- Flammable liquids like paint thinner, petrol, or lighter fuel
- Flammable solids or oxidizers, including matches, peroxides, or magnesium
- Corrosive or toxic materials, such as acids, pesticides, or mercury
- Radioactive substances or materials emitting radiation
- Infectious or biological samples (medical or lab specimens)
Parcel Flow fully adheres to UN hazardous goods classifications, ensuring every parcel is handled under strict safety standards.
Other Prohibited or Restricted Goods
Certain items are restricted under EU import/export regulations and UK customs law. These include:
- Controlled or illegal drugs and narcotics
- Weapons, ammunition, and replicas
- Obscene or offensive materials
- Human or animal remains
- Counterfeit goods, currency, or lottery materials
- Perishable food or live plants (depending on destination)
- Batteries, alcohol, or aerosols exceeding courier safety limits
If your shipment includes a regulated product (e.g., prescription medication or electronics with batteries), please check eligibility first to avoid customs delays or returns.
Why These Restrictions Exist
These rules protect both our customers and courier partners ensuring every package shipped through our Northern Ireland storage & forwarding system is compliant, safe & cleared for international movement.
Transit Times
Fast, Reliable Delivery Wherever You Are
Parcel Flow works with a trusted network of global couriers to give you the best balance between speed and cost. Whether you're shipping from Belfast to Berlin or forwarding goods from London to Lisbon, our team ensures your parcels are handled with care and efficiency.
Parcel Flow Air Express | 1–2 Business Days
Parcel Flow Europe (by Road) | 3–4 Business Days
Parcelforce Priority International | 2 Days
DHL Air Express | 1 Day
DHL Road Express | 2 Days
Same-day processing: Every parcel received at our depot is dispatched within the same working day, ensuring you never wait longer than necessary.
Our location in Northern Ireland also allows us to send parcels to the EU post-Brexit faster and with fewer customs checks giving you a smoother & more affordable experience than mainland UK forwarders.
Duty, Tax & Insurance Information
Transparent Costs, Zero Surprises
Parcel Flow believes in total transparency when it comes to shipping fees, duties & insurance cover. You'll always know what you're paying for before you ship.
£20 of carriage cover Free with every parcel
Additional cover options:
- £0.14 for each extra £50
- £0.99 for £100
- £1.49 for £150
- £2.49 for £200
- £3.99 for £300
- £5.99 for £400
- £9.99 for £600
- £19.99 for £1,000
For shipments to the EU, our Northern Ireland storage and forwarding hub ensures your goods are pre-cleared under simplified customs reducing VAT complications and delays under the Windsor Framework.
