Expat Essentials: The Ultimate Guide to Sending Care Packages to Australia, Including Hand Cream

Shipping personal care items like hand cream to Australia can be confusing. With strict customs regulations and quarantine protocols, it’s essential to understand the guidelines before sending your package. This comprehensive guide will answer the question “Can I send hand cream to Australia?” and provide detailed instructions for a successful shipment.

Customs Regulations for Hand Cream

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) regulates the importation of hand cream into Australia. According to their regulations:

• Commercial quantities: Hand cream intended for commercial sale requires a permit from DAWE.
• Personal use quantities: Hand cream for personal use in quantities of up to 500g is generally permitted without a permit.

Quarantine Restrictions

Hand cream is considered a “low-risk” item by DAWE. However, it may be subject to quarantine inspection if it contains certain ingredients, such as:

• Animal products (e.g., lanolin)
• Plant materials (e.g., essential oils)

If your hand cream contains any of these ingredients, it’s recommended to declare it on the customs declaration form.

How to Send Hand Cream to Australia

To successfully send hand cream to Australia, follow these steps:

1. Check the ingredients: Ensure your hand cream does not contain any prohibited ingredients.
2. Declare the contents: Clearly state on the customs declaration form that the package contains hand cream for personal use, under 500g.
3. Use a reliable shipping carrier: Choose a carrier that has experience with international shipments and understands Australian customs regulations.
4. Package securely: Pack the hand cream securely using bubble wrap or other protective material.
5. Label the package clearly: Write “Personal Use: Hand Cream” on the outside of the package.

Prohibited and Restricted Ingredients

The following ingredients are prohibited or restricted in hand cream imported into Australia:

• Animal fats
• Dairy products
• Eggs
• Meat
• Plants and plant products

When Not to Send Hand Cream

Avoid sending hand cream to Australia if:

• It contains prohibited or restricted ingredients.
• It exceeds the personal use quantity limit of 500g.
• It is intended for commercial purposes.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with Australian customs regulations can result in:

• Confiscation of the hand cream
• Fines
• Delay or return of the package

Other Considerations

• Gift-giving: If you are sending hand cream as a gift, it’s recommended to declare it as such on the customs declaration form.
• Tracking: Consider using a trackable shipping method to monitor the progress of your package.
• Customs duty: You may be liable for customs duty if the value of the hand cream exceeds the duty-free threshold.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I send hand cream containing essential oils to Australia?
A: Yes, but you should declare it on the customs declaration form.

Q: What is the maximum quantity of hand cream I can send for personal use?
A: Up to 500g.

Q: Do I need a permit to send commercial quantities of hand cream?
A: Yes, you will need a permit from DAWE.

Q: What happens if my hand cream is confiscated by Australian customs?
A: You will not be able to receive the package and may face penalties.

Q: Can I send hand cream containing animal products to Australia?
A: No, animal products are prohibited in hand cream imported into Australia.