Guide to shipping cosmetics internationally

The cosmetics industry is experiencing significant growth globally, driven by increasing interest in beauty and personal care.

According to Statista, the cosmetics industry is forecast to generate revenues of nearly US$140 billion by 2030¹. This growth aligns with global interests in wellness and self-care, further amplified by social media trends and influencer marketing, which constantly shape consumer preferences and drive demand.

The online cosmetics segment, in particular, is witnessing rapid expansion. According to Mordor Intelligence, the market size is estimated at US$16.23 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach US$24.37 billion by 2030, with an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.47% from 2025 to 2030².

Because of this growing demand, Singaporean sellers have a significant opportunity to explore overseas markets and ship globally. Hence, it is important for shippers to understand the right method and requirements for shipping cosmetics across international borders and partner with an experienced logistics service provider like DHL Express to ensure a smooth and compliant shipping process. Here’s what sellers need to know before they begin their shipping journey.

Definition of cosmetics

Cosmetic products are substances or mixtures intended for external use on the body, such as skin, hair, nails, lips, and teeth. Generally, cosmetic products are used for cleansing, perfuming, and enhancing one's appearance.

When it comes to international shipping, it's essential to note that cosmetic products differ from medical or therapeutic goods, such as injections or treatments. If your goods have these purposes, they will be subject to different shipping regulations.

Additionally, cosmetic products don't include items that are ingested orally.

Here are examples of common cosmetic products:

• Lipstick
• Perfume
• Nail polish
• Shampoo
• Moisturizer
• Foundation
• Eye shadow
• Body lotion
• Sunscreen
• Toothpaste

How to send cosmetics overseas: steps to know before shipping

Before you begin exporting cosmetics from Singapore, it’s crucial to understand the key steps involved in shipping cosmetics internationally to ensure a seamless process:

1. Understand the destination country’s rules and regulations

Ensure you are familiar with the destination country’s rules and regulations before sending your first shipment. Or else, you may risk incurring additional licensing fees, customer delays, or even having your shipments returned at the border. Here are some key considerations for popular cosmetic shipping destinations:

Australia

Australian law considers any substance or preparation intended for placement in contact with any part of the human body as a cosmetic product. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of items, from makeup to skincare products. When exporting cosmetics to Australia, here are some essential things to note:

• Importers must register their business with the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS). This is a crucial first step to ensure compliance with chemical regulations for imported products³.
• Product labeling standards and product safety must adhere to guidelines established by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). This includes requirements for ingredient lists, warnings, and clear instructions for use to protect consumers³.
• Australia bans new animal test data for cosmetic ingredients and chemicals with multiple uses, including cosmetics⁴.
• Customs Duty: 5%
• Goods Services Tax: 10% 

Hong Kong

The regulatory landscape for cosmetic products in Hong Kong differs significantly from many other regions, as there are no laws specifically targeting cosmetic products. There are, however, various legislations that have to be considered, such as:

• Cosmetic products are generally governed as consumer goods under the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance (Cap. 456)⁵.
• While there are no laws or regulations specifically for cosmetic products, they must adhere to the general safety requirements applicable to all consumer goods, ensuring they are safe for normal or foreseeable use⁵.
• There are no specific packaging requirements unique to cosmetics, but there are labeling requirements, including the need for bilingual safety labeling to ensure clarity for consumers⁵.
• Hong Kong does not impose customs duties or VAT on imported cosmetics.

China

Here are some general guidelines for importing cosmetics into China:

• Before importing cosmetic products into China, businesses must register their products with the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), requiring the submission of detailed technical files, safety tests, and compliance with local standards⁶.
• If specific conditions are met, "ordinary" cosmetics can be exempted from mandatory animal testing, reflecting a shift in Chinese regulations⁶.
• Cosmetics cannot contain ingredients found on the NMPA's comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted ingredients⁶.
• Importers must also provide detailed information on the ingredients used in their products, including certificates of analysis and evidence of safety⁶.
• All cosmetics must comply with strict labeling requirements, including the translation into Chinese of all relevant information for consumers⁶.
• Import Tax: 10% to 25% (depending on Harmonized System Code)⁷

Malaysia

The regulatory framework for importing cosmetics into Malaysia is quite comprehensive. Here are things to note:

• You must register your cosmetic products with the Director of Pharmaceutical Services (DPS) via the National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB) before importation⁸.
• A Product Information File (PIF) is needed for each product, which includes details on composition, manufacturing methods, safety assessment, and labeling⁸.
• There are specific restrictions and guidelines for ingredients, naming, and labeling for different types of cosmetic products, as outlined by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency’s (NPRA) cosmetic guidelines. 
• Import Duty: 0% to 20% (depending on Harmonized System Code)⁹

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has established its own specific regulations for cosmetic products, largely mirroring the EU framework but with UK-specific requirements for market placement. When exporting cosmetics to the UK, it's crucial to understand these points:

• Only a designated Responsible Person can place a cosmetic product on the GB market¹⁰.
• Every product requires a Product Information File (PIF), which ensures the product is safe for use and complies with all relevant regulatory requirements¹⁰.
• Before import, product safety must be checked by a qualified safety assessor, and it is the responsibility of the Responsible Person to ensure this assessment is carried out by a suitably qualified individual.¹⁰
• There are limitations on ingredients according to regulations set by UK Legislation¹⁰.
• Proper labeling is essential, adhering to specific UK guidelines for ingredient lists, warnings, and responsible person details¹⁰.
• Customs Duties: 0% to 35% (depending on the commodity code and country of origin)

United States

For the United States, some cosmetics will require approval before import, as certain products are not solely classified as cosmetics. For instance, toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent cavities, shampoo that also treats dandruff, and lip balms and lotions with sun protection are classified as drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so their import regulations will differ significantly from those applied to pure cosmetics11. Here are key things to note for cosmetics specifically:

• Color additives used in the cosmetic product must be approved and must be on the list of permitted color additives¹¹.
• Cosmetics that contain prohibited ingredients cannot be imported¹¹.
• Labels must be in strict accordance with the FDA’s Cosmetics Labeling Guide, providing accurate ingredient lists and consumer information¹¹.
• Customs Duty: 4.9% to 5.8% (depending on Harmonized Tariff Schedule code and country of origin)¹¹

2. Learn how to pack cosmetic products

Improper packaging can spell disaster and also compromise the product’s quality, leading to damaged products. Therefore, you must:

• Access the strength and durability of the packaging box.
• Choose appropriate packaging materials like bubble wrap, corrugated inserts, or crumpled paper, and pack the items separately by layering them three to four times.
• Use pressure-sensitive tapes to offer extra protection from humidity, moisture, etc.
• For perfumes and sprays, carefully pack them inside leak-proof boxes in an upright position.
• Make sure to leave no empty space within the container to prevent the contents from colliding during transit.
• Fill the void spaces with cushioning materials like foam peanuts, foam wraps, and bubble wraps.
• Use the H-taping method to seal all the edges and any remaining seams.
• Use arrows to indicate how to handle the shipment. 

It's also essential to use appropriate labels clearly indicating the DG (Dangerous Goods) types and their potential hazards. This is because Dangerous Goods are prone to volatility and can prove to be detrimental if handled incorrectly. You can find more detailed information on proper labeling in our comprehensive packaging guide.

Moreover, shipping Dangerous Goods internationally carries a unique set of complications, i.e., complying with customs regulations and restrictions. This is why many cosmetics, nail polishes, and perfumes are considered hazardous and are thus classified in the category of Flammable Liquids. 

3. Know what documents are required when shipping

If the country of destination classifies cosmetics as dangerous goods, there are additional documents required when shipping. For DG products, each shipment must have a Dangerous Goods declaration on the AWB and shipping invoice that gives a clear description of the DG commodity.

You can also use our MyGTS tool to further check the shipping requirements of your destination country. Still unsure about the documentation? Reach out to our customer support team.

4. Pick a reliable door-to-door logistics service provider

When you choose to ship your cosmetics to consumers in other countries, you need a trustworthy logistics provider with comprehensive e-commerce delivery solutions that can help you with easy international door-to-door deliveries. 

With DHL Express, you can be assured that your goods will be delivered on time with complete visibility of their real-time status at every single step.

Our customs team is also well-versed with all the local rules and guidelines, making your goods clearance process quick and smooth. Moreover, we also provide an easy return process by helping you create a DHL return waybill for a hassle-free shipping process. We also have online shipping tools like MyDHL+ and ODD (On-Demand Delivery), making the shipping procedure easy and efficient.

5. Track your package

With DHL’s express tracking, you can stay up to date on the status of your package right from when it is handed over to us until it is signed for by your recipient. You can also share the 10-digit AWB number with your recipient to help them monitor the real-time status of the shipment and arrange for an ideal delivery date.

Countries with potential customs delays

There are certain markets that may experience potential customs delays because their local rules and regulations can be more stringent. Some additional rules you may also see with clearing customs include obtaining certain approvals, licenses, and certifications. It’s important to be aware of these potential hurdles to avoid costly delays and ensure a smoother transit for your overseas shipping.

Here are some examples:

• Brazil
• Chile
• China
• Greece
• Indonesia
• Israel
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Mexico
• Peru
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Thailand 
• Turkey

To proactively avoid issues, it is crucial to provide accurate information such as HS codes, product values, and goods descriptions. Additionally, partnering with the right logistics service provider, like DHL Express, can significantly expedite the customs clearance process due to their expertise and established relationships.

Ship cosmetics internationally with ease

Now is a prime time for Singaporean e-commerce businesses to explore overseas shipping opportunities, given the increasing global demand for beauty products and the ease of reaching international customers through online channels.

To ship cosmetics internationally, remember to understand destination rules, pack securely, prepare necessary documents, and choose a reliable logistics service provider like DHL Express. DHL Express offers many solutions for local e-commerce businesses, including real-time parcel tracking, expert customs clearance, a broad network, and extensive expertise, all designed to boost e-commerce growth.

Frequently asked questions about shipping cosmetics overseas