Shipping Restrictions to the USA
Shipping Restrictions to the USA: Which Products Cannot Be Sent and Why
The United States has one of the most strictly regulated import systems in the world, especially when it comes to products related to human health. Many items that are legally sold in Thailand, Asia, or Europe cannot be shipped to the USA, either to private individuals (C2C) or through online stores (B2C).
Below we explain in clear and simple terms which products cannot be shipped to the USA, which regulations apply, and why refusing shipment is a necessary protection for the customer rather than a limitation of our service.
Dietary Supplements (Supplements) — the Main Restriction
Dietary supplements include:
- vitamins and mineral complexes;
- herbal capsules, powders, and extracts;
- collagen, omega-3, glucosamine;
- traditional Thai and Asian supplements.
In the United States, all dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). To be legally imported, supplements must meet strict requirements, including:
- manufacturer registration with the FDA;
- a registered importer in the USA;
- prior FDA notification for each shipment;
- compliance with FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program).
These rules apply even to private shipments for personal use. Such parcels may be:
- detained by US Customs;
- returned to the sender;
- destroyed without compensation.
For this reason, shipping dietary supplements to the USA via standard international delivery is generally not permitted.
Medicines and Products with Medicinal Claims
The following items are prohibited:
- prescription and over-the-counter medicines;
- traditional and herbal medicinal products;
- products with pharmacological effects;
- items not approved as medicines in the USA.
Importing medicines for personal use into the USA is largely prohibited, regardless of their legal status in other countries.
Cosmetics with Active or Medicinal Ingredients
US regulations state that any cosmetic claiming a therapeutic or medical effect may be classified as a drug.
High-risk categories include:
- cosmetics containing hormones, antibiotics, or steroids;
- products with CBD or kratom;
- skin-whitening products containing hydroquinone;
- Ayurvedic or traditional medical cosmetics.
Such products require special registration and cannot be shipped via standard international delivery services.
Herbs, Powders, and Traditional Remedies
Under increased scrutiny are:
- dried herbs and roots;
- powdered substances of unclear composition;
- herbal blends without laboratory documentation.
The FDA considers these items potentially unsafe due to lack of standardization and possible presence of prohibited substances.
“It Used to Arrive Before” — Why That No Longer Applies
In the past, inspections were more selective. Today, US Customs and FDA use:
- automated shipment screening;
- keyword and category filtering;
- risk databases and sender history analysis.
Just because an item “arrived before” does not mean it was legal or safe to ship.
Products Usually Allowed for Shipment to the USA
Generally permitted categories include:
- standard cosmetic products without medical claims;
- household goods and accessories;
- clothing and textiles;
- souvenirs and non-regulated items.
Each product must still be reviewed individually before shipment.
Possible Alternative Delivery Options
If a product cannot be shipped directly to the USA, possible alternatives may include:
- delivery to Canada or Mexico (subject to local regulations);
- receipt by friends or relatives abroad;
- personal pickup during travel;
- selecting a compliant alternative product.
Why We Do Not Accept Payment for Restricted Items
We deliberately do not accept payment for items that cannot be legally delivered, in order to:
- protect customers from financial loss;
- avoid customs and legal issues;
- maintain transparency and trust.
Summary
Shipping restrictions to the USA are not a formality but a strict legal reality. Compliance protects both the customer and the seller. If you are unsure whether a product can be shipped, our team is always ready to advise and help find a safe and legal solution.