From bottled water to fine wine, liquids are among the most in-demand products in global trade — yet shipping liquids internationally is rarely straightforward. Different countries enforce strict import rules, carriers have varied acceptance policies, and certain liquids, especially flammable ones, require special handling and documentation. For businesses in Vietnam, navigating these regulations is crucial to avoid delays, fines, or damaged goods in transit.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know about shipping liquids overseas — from the types of liquids that can be shipped to the common regulations involved, and best practices for safe, compliant packaging. Whether you’re sending non-flammable beverages, shipping flammable liquids internationally, or exploring solutions for packaging liquids in bulk, these tips will help you ship with confidence.
Types of liquids to ship overseas
Not all liquids are treated equally in international shipping. Depending on their composition, some can be shipped with minimal restrictions, others require special authorization, and a few are prohibited altogether. Here’s a quick guide to each category.
Safe liquids
These are generally considered safe for international shipping via standard services:
- Bottled water
- Juice and soft drinks
- Honey
- Shampoo and lotion (non-hazardous, non-flammable)
Liquids requiring special authorization
These items need a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to support international compliance and smooth customs clearance:
- Essential oils
- Alcohol
- Perfume
- Cleaning products
An MSDS provides crucial information such as chemical composition, flammability, handling procedures, and storage requirements — helping carriers and customs determine proper classification and packaging.
Prohibited liquids
The following are commonly classified as dangerous goods and typically prohibited in regular international shipping1:
- Lubricants
- Antifreeze
- Lithium battery electrolyte solutions
- Aerosols
How do you pack liquids for international shipping?
Once you’ve confirmed that your product is eligible for shipment, the next step is ensuring it’s packaged correctly. Proper packaging for shipping liquids internationally isn’t just about preventing leaks — it’s also about protecting your shipment from temperature changes, pressure fluctuations, and rough handling during transit. A well-packed shipment helps minimize the risk of delays, damage claims, and compliance issues.
Follow these four key steps for secure and compliant packaging of liquids:
1. Seal the container
Choose sturdy, leak-resistant bottles or jars and avoid filling them to the brim. Leaving a small gap at the top gives the liquid room to expand if air pressure or temperature changes during transport. Use a tight-fitting cap and secure it with strong tape to prevent any movement.
2. Add a waterproof layer
Place the container inside a waterproof, sealable bag — or use vacuum sealing — to create a protective barrier. This layer keeps any leaks contained and prevents moisture from reaching other items in the shipment.
3. Cushion the shipment
Select a rigid, corrugated cardboard box and line it with padding such as bubble wrap, foam inserts, or packing peanuts. If you’re sending multiple bottles, separate them with cardboard trays or dividers. Including absorbent material like paper towels or liner sheets adds another safeguard against leaks.
4. Secure and label the package
Reinforce the box with high-strength packing tape, paying extra attention to the bottom and seams. Apply clear labels such as “Fragile” and “Liquid” so handlers know to take extra care, and make sure shipping and destination details are easy to read.
For added assurance, DHL Express Vietnam offers advice and tailored solutions for packaging liquids — helping you ship liquids overseas safely and in compliance with destination regulations.
How to prepare liquids for bulk shipping
If your shipment involves large volumes, choosing the right bulk packaging is critical for both safety and cost-efficiency. Common solutions for packaging liquids in bulk include:
- ISO tanks – Robust, reusable containers ideal for large quantities of both hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, designed for long-distance transport4.
- Flexitanks (flexibags) – Single-use liners that fit inside standard shipping containers, offering a cost-effective way to move non-hazardous liquids such as edible oils or juice concentrates.
- Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) or totes – Stackable, reusable containers suitable for medium-sized liquid volumes, often used in food and chemical industries.
- Drums and barrels – Available in steel, plastic, or fiber, these are ideal for smaller bulk quantities and allow for easier handling during loading and unloading.
Regardless of the method, always consider adding spill containment, absorbent materials, and clear labeling with content details and handling instructions.
How to ship flammable liquids like wines and perfumes?
Flammable liquids — such as wines with high alcohol content, spirits, and alcohol-based perfumes — are classified as dangerous goods under international shipping regulations. These products require specialized handling, compliant packaging, and precise documentation to ensure they move safely through the supply chain.
The rules for moving these goods are set by international bodies such as:
International Air Transport Association (IATA) – Regulates the transport of dangerous goods by air via its Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). These specify how flammable liquids must be classified, packaged to prevent leaks, labelled with hazard markings, and accompanied by a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods2.
International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code – Covers the safe transport of flammable liquids by sea, including packaging requirements to withstand marine conditions and proper stowage to prevent hazardous reactions3.
In addition, to send flammable liquids internationally with DHL Express, you must first be an approved dangerous goods shipper. This involves:
- Using UN-certified leak-proof packaging suitable for flammable liquids.
- Clearly marking packages with the correct hazard labels and handling instructions.
- Providing accurate documentation, including the MSDS and Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD).
- Meeting any destination-specific regulations for importing flammable substances.
Get started on sending liquids overseas with DHL Express
Shipping liquid internationally can be complex — especially when it involves flammable or regulated products — but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a global network, certified dangerous goods expertise, and door-to-door logistics services, DHL Express Vietnam supports businesses in navigating regulations, preparing compliant packaging, and ensuring shipments arrive safely and on time.
Open a DHL Express business account today to access expert guidance and trusted solutions for shipping liquids internationally with confidence.
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