In international logistics, goods are typically categorized into three types:

• contraband
• sensitive goods
• general cargo.

Contraband items are strictly prohibited from transport. General cargo comprises most goods that can be shipped normally. Sensitive goods, however, require strict management and transport according to specific regulations.

What exactly are sensitive goods?

Their definition is complex, falling between general cargo and contraband. In international logistics, there’s a clear distinction between sensitive goods and contraband. 

Generally, “sensitive goods” refer to items requiring statutory (legal) inspection, which may include goods both within and outside the legal inspection catalog. 

Examples include animals and plants (and their products), foodstuffs, beverages, alcoholic drinks, certain minerals and chemicals (especially dangerous goods), cosmetics, fireworks, lighters, and timber products (including wooden furniture).

Sensitive goods are typically subject to strict control by Customs and Excise departments and may even be prohibited from air transport. They’re also prone to issues related to “high export tax rebates” and “false overstatement of tax refunds.” However, these goods can still be exported safely and declared normally if all relevant regulations are followed.

During transportation, sensitive goods usually require appropriate test reports and packaging that meets their special characteristics. Choosing an experienced and competent logistics partner is crucial in ensuring these goods arrive safely at their destination.

Seven classifications of common sensitive cargoes

Common sensitive cargoes are primarily divided into the following seven classifications:

1.Battery Cargoes

Items containing batteries. Due to the risk of spontaneous combustion and explosion, these goods are subject to transportation restrictions. 

Battery-type goods typically require MSDS and UN38.3 test certifications, along with strict packaging and handling procedures.

2.Food and Drug Cargoes

This category includes edible health products, processed foods, spices, cereals, oilseeds, legumes, traditional Chinese medicines, and various drugs. 

To protect domestic resources, many countries implement mandatory quarantine systems for these goods. Lack of proper quarantine documentation may classify them as sensitive.

3.Optical Disks, CDs, Books, and Magazines

This category covers printed materials, CD-ROMs, CDs, movies, and computer storage media that may contain content damaging to the economy, politics, morality, culture, or involving confidentiality concerns.

4.Liquid, Paste, and Other Unstable Goods

This includes cosmetics, skin care products, essential oils, toothpaste, lipstick, sunscreen, beverages, and perfumes. These items are prone to volatilization, collision damage, and heat sensitivity during transport. They often require an MSDS and a commodity inspection report from the port of departure for customs clearance.

5.Sharp Goods

This category encompasses sharp products and objects, including kitchen utensils, stationery, gardening tools, and hardware tools.

6.Imitation and Counterfeit Goods

Products with imitation brands or logos, which may involve risks of infringement and legal disputes.

7.Goods with Magnetic Components

This includes power banks, cell phones, watches, game consoles, electric toys, razors, and other electronic products that may emit noise.

It’s important to note that specific cases may require individual analysis.

Please pay attention, while most phone cases are classified as general goods, liquid-filled phone cases fall under the sensitive goods category.