Learn More about International Shipping with JustShip!

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Blog | JustShip International Shipping Singapore

Sending a gift to a loved one overseas? Whether it’s for a special occasion or a spontaneous surprise, international gift shipping comes with a few important things to consider.

Here’s what you need to know to make the process smooth, thoughtful, and memorable.

Most international deliveries take about 

, but it’s always best to plan ahead. Customs clearance can sometimes cause delays, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

 Ship early to make sure your gift arrives right on time — surprises are better when they aren’t late.

2. Keeping It a Surprise — What to Consider

 instead of the recipient’s to keep the gift a true surprise. But here are a few things to weigh:

: Customs may need to reach the recipient and won’t be able to if you’re listed instead.

: If contact attempts fail, the parcel might be returned.

you’ll be responsible for the full return charges

It’s a balance between surprise and certainty, so consider what works best for you.

Customs clearance is one of the biggest variables in international shipping, but you can make it easier by:

not shipping any restricted or prohibited items

 to pay all customs charges upfront — so the recipient doesn’t get a surprise bill

Worried about spoiling the surprise? We’ve got you covered.

Shipping labels won’t reveal what’s inside the box.

Commercial invoices are submitted electronically, so there’s no visible paperwork attached to the parcel.

Your recipient gets a clean, mystery-filled package just as you intended.

Understanding the finer details of shipping a gift lets you send it with more confidence and care. It’s not just about what’s inside the box — it’s about the entire experience, from packing to delivery.

Make your surprise extra special. Let JustShip help you share joy, wherever it needs to go.

Sending a gift abroad? Learn how to keep it a surprise, avoid customs issues, and ship with confidence using these expert-backed tips from JustShip.

International Gift Shipping Tips to Keep It Smooth and Surprise Proof

: Unlike other couriers, we don't impose blanket bans on food, liquids, supplements, or electronics.

: Enjoy VIP shipping without the VIP price tag.

y: With greater freedom comes the need to know what you can and can't ship internationally.

Can I Ship Chinese New Year goodies? 🧧🍊

Yes! Celebrate the season by sending festive treats overseas. Check out our 

comprehensive guide on shipping Chinese New Year goodies

 to learn what’s allowed and how to package them properly.

Yes, you can ship food items overseas! However, every country has different restrictions and prohibitions on what type of food items are allowed.

Check out our 

Shipping meat and/or Shipping frozen food Internationally (items that contain meat) can attract all sorts of regulations, depending on which country you are shipping to.

Based on our shipping experience, most if not all meat items are almost impossible to ship without a permit. To save our shippers from turmoil during their shipping - we typically do not accept shipments containing traces of meat.

For more information, you may read our 

Mooncakes are a popular seasonal gift — and yes, you can ship them! Check out our comprehensive 

guide on shipping mooncakes internationally

Shipping liquids overseas can be complicated, especially since different countries have different regulations and requirements.

🥤 Consumable liquids (honey, water, juices, etc.) are generally safe to ship with us, as they are accepted as non-hazardous.

🧼 Slightly risky liquids (e.g. shower gel, soap, cleaning products, essential oils, etc.) are relatively safe to ship in small quantities (ballpark of 1-5 bottles, ~100ml each). If you are shipping liquids that contain alcohol, or you are planning to ship these liquids in bulk, you will have to send us the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for your item, for us to check if it is a Dangerous Good.

☣️ Risky liquids (e.g. hair dye, paint, acetone, aerosol sprays, nail polish, perfumes) are likely to be dangerous goods. Shipping dangerous goods requires special processes and will incur a surcharge upwards of $330, and is generally not worth the money for most consumer use cases.

*Please note: Malaysia and Spain do not accept cosmetic products, and Malaysia restricts shipments of toiletries beyond a one-month supply.

When shipping liquids, it is also important to pack it well to prevent leakage. For more information, do visit our 

Can I Ship Alcohol (e.g. Whiskey, Wine)? 🥃🍷

Individuals (consumers) are typically not allowed to ship alcohol, therefore we do not accept alcohol shipments.

Shipping medications and supplements internationally can be challenging due to various regulations and restrictions. In most countries, an import permit, customs approval, or a valid prescription is required. Customs authorities may also request a letter explaining the reason for import and detailed information about the medication's ingredients.

While we have successfully shipped medications on numerous occasions, it's important to note that certain countries have rejected medication imports based on our experience. These countries include:

*Please note: Any rejected and returned shipments will incur return charges at 1.5x the original shipping cost (fully borne by shipper).

Most electronics are safe to ship with us, such as phones, earphones, desktops, and most laptops.

Those containing larger lithium batteries such as some gamer laptops might be categorised as dangerous goods, in which case they will require added paperwork and significant add-on charges, upwards of $230, to ship.

What About Dangerous Goods (Like Perfume or Batteries)? 🧨🧪

Yes, we do! Some commonly shipped Dangerous Goods are:

To assess if your items are to be shipped as a regular / Dangerous good shipment, we will need the item’s 

Contact the Supplier: Get in touch with the manufacturer or distributor of the hazardous product, as they are obligated to provide you with the MSDS.

Online Resources: Many manufacturers maintain online databases where you can conveniently retrieve the MSDS from their official websites. Additionally, some websites offer free resources; just ensure their authenticity.

Shipping dangerous goods involves specific processes and will result in a surcharge ranging $250 - $330. This option may not be cost-effective for all consumer use cases, and the processing time is around one week. If the surcharge and timeline align with your needs, please don't hesitate to contact us via 

Shipping with JustShip means more freedom — but also the responsibility to stay informed. Always double-check if your item is restricted, and when in doubt, just reach out. If you need further support, you can find us on 

From festive foods and supplements to electronics and risky liquids, find out what’s safe to ship internationally with JustShip, what’s restricted, and how to avoid customs issues.

What Items Can I Ship? Food, Liquids, Electronics & More

Whether it’s a birthday, festive surprise, or a “just because” gift, packing it yourself adds a personal touch that no store-bought wrap can match. At JustShip, we believe in giving you options. That’s why we support both the hands-on gifters and those who prefer to leave the packing to the pros.

If you're the type who loves to pack your own gifts, here are our top expert tips from years of international shipping experience — so your parcel arrives safe, secure, and beautifully presented.

1. Pick the Right Box Size to Save on Shipping

Shipping costs are based on whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight (calculated as length × width × height ÷ 5000). That means using an oversized box can drive up your costs even if it’s light.

Choosing a snug-fitting box helps reduce unnecessary space and keeps your shipping fees lower.

International shipping can be rough. That’s why we recommend using double-wall boxes instead of single-wall ones. They offer extra strength and protection that make a real difference during long journeys.

You’re free to choose, but it’s a smart upgrade if you want to be safe.

Can’t find a box that fits just right? Get a little crafty and trim down a larger box to create a better fit.

Cut the corners, fold in the flaps, and tape it all up to create a snug, custom-sized parcel. It’s a simple trick that helps you pack smarter.

A well-packed box should make no sound when shaken. Use bubble wrap, scrunched newspaper, or foam to fill in all the gaps and keep your items from shifting around. Secure packing protects your gift and shows how much you care.

5. Use Extra Bubble Wrap for Fragile Items

Sending something delicate? Bubble wrap is your best friend. Wrap fragile items with care — the more layers, the better. Make sure each item is cushioned on all sides to absorb shocks during transit.

It may take a bit more time, but it’s worth it for that moment your recipient opens the box and finds everything intact.

JustShip Has Your Back, Whatever You Choose

Whether you pack your gifts yourself or leave it to our professional team, we’re here to help your items arrive safely and beautifully.

After all, it's not just about the destination; it's the love, thought, and care that make every gift truly special.

Love packing your own gifts? Learn how to do it safely, affordably, and professionally with our expert-backed packing and shipping tips.

Blog

DIY Gift Packing for International Shipping (Top Expert Tips)

1. Pick the Right Box Size to Save on Shipping

2. Go for Double-Wall Boxes When You Can

3. No Perfect Size? Make Your Own

4. Fill Empty Spaces to Prevent Movement

5. Use Extra Bubble Wrap for Fragile Items

JustShip Has Your Back, Whatever You Choose

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International Gift Shipping Tips to Keep It Smooth and Surprise Proof

What Items Can I Ship? Food, Liquids, Electronics & More