SHIPPING SAFELY

Prohibited & restricted goods

Last updated 6 October 2026

Some items cannot travel with Ceylon Shipping by air or sea, either because they are dangerous to transport or because they are restricted on import into Sri Lanka. Before you pay for a booking, you are asked to confirm that your shipment does not contain any of the categories below — this is a hard requirement, not a warning you can dismiss.

Flammables & explosives

Aerosols, lighters, matches, fireworks and any flammable or explosive substance.

Loose batteries

Loose lithium batteries and power banks not fitted inside the device they power.

Illegal goods

Counterfeit goods, controlled substances and anything unlawful to send, hold or sell in the UK or Sri Lanka.

Dangerous items

Corrosives, dangerous chemicals, perfumes and aftershaves above permitted limits, and firearms or weapons.

Restricted in Sri Lanka

Items additionally restricted or requiring specific approval for import into Sri Lanka.

Gold & cash

Gold in any form, including gold jewellery, coins and bars, and cash in any currency. Ceylon Shipping does not handle these.

What happens if a prohibited item is found

A shipment found to contain a prohibited or restricted item can be held, refused, or removed from your consignment at origin or by customs at destination. This is separate from — and does not replace — your own declaration made before payment.

Not sure about a specific item?

This page lists categories, not every individual item. If you are unsure whether something can be shipped, contact our team before you pack, or check with us during your quote.