Shipping Exclusions: What They Are and How to Deal With Them

If you’ve ever tried to ship a product only to get a "cannot accept" notice, you’ve hit a shipping exclusion. It’s simply a list of items that carriers won’t move because they’re risky, illegal, or just don’t fit the rules.

Understanding these exclusions saves you time, money, and headaches. Below we break down the most common categories, why they’re blocked, and what you can do to keep your shipments on track.

Common Items Carriers Won’t Accept

Hazardous materials – Think flammable liquids, batteries that can overheat, and chemicals. Even a small lithium‑ion battery can trigger a ban if it isn’t packed perfectly.

Perishables – Fresh food, flowers, and some medicines need temperature control. Most standard couriers won’t take them unless you pay for special services.

Valuable or fragile items – High‑value jewelry, artwork, or very delicate electronics often require insured, specialized transport. Regular freight may refuse them outright.

Legal restrictions – Anything illegal in the destination country (drugs, certain weapons, counterfeit goods) is automatically excluded.

Oversized or oddly shaped goods – Items that don’t fit in a normal box or pallet can be turned away because they need custom handling.

How to Navigate Exclusions and Keep Your Shipments Moving

First, check the carrier’s policy before you pack. Most logistics companies, including StockOne, list prohibited items on their website. A quick glance can spare you a surprise call later.

If an item is on the excluded list, see if a specialty carrier covers it. For hazardous batteries, many air freight firms have a separate approval process. For perishables, look for a temperature‑controlled service.

When you’re unsure, contact the carrier’s support team. A short email that describes the product, its packaging, and the destination often gets a clear answer. It’s faster than sending a shipment and getting it returned.

Document everything. Keep material safety data sheets for chemicals, temperature logs for perishables, and insurance certificates for high‑value items. If a carrier asks for proof, you’ll have it ready.

Finally, train your team. Make a quick cheat‑sheet of the top ten exclusions for your most common shipments. Post it near the packing station, and update it whenever regulations change.By staying ahead of the rules, you avoid delays, extra fees, and angry customers. Shipping may have its limits, but with the right plan you can work around them smoothly.