This article outlines the product categories available on Easyship, how to accurately describe products, and the specific requirements for shipping dangerous goods.
What are Product Categories?
Couriers and countries have specific restrictions on the types of commodities that can be transported or imported. Product categories serve as an essential reference point for compatibility between couriers and destinations. Easyship uses these categories to assign HS codes, saving merchants time on tariff classifications.
You can also search HS Codes by description or numerical code through Easyship’s dashboard.
Product Descriptions
The item description should clearly state the product type, material, and purpose. For example, describe an item as "women's cotton t-shirt" rather than just "shirt." Avoid internal codes or abbreviations, and ensure the description is accurate for customs purposes, as it helps streamline the clearance process.
Note: Incorrect or vague descriptions can result in customs delays and additional charges in certain countries.
Prohibited Items on Easyship
Some goods are prohibited from shipping via Easyship, including but not limited to:
- Any product related to illegal activities or which is prohibited by law in the place of origin, the destination, or any sites through which such product travels.
- Any product requiring specific licenses to store or distribute. Examples of products with distribution and licensing requirements may include, but are not limited to:
- Live plants and animals;
- Alcoholic beverages;
- Ammunition & firearms;
- Tobacco,vapes;
- Firearms and any kind of weapon;
- Prescription pharmaceuticals or other dangerous drugs;
- Explosive or Flammable or hazardous products;
- Counterfeit items;
- Unique or one-of-a-kind materials; and
- Precious metals in the forms of bullion or reserves.
Check with Easyship Support if unsure whether your product is allowed.
Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods are categorized into 9 classes, each with different shipping risks. It is essential to classify dangerous goods correctly so that the hazards posed are communicated through the transport chain.
Easyship only handles some Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods, such as:
- PI 967 Lithium-Ion Batteries (in-product)
- Lithium Metal Batteries
- Magnetized materials
- Dry food and supplements
- Liquides
- Non-alcoholic health & beauty products (e.g., nail polish)
For hemp products (including CBD), Easyship imposes certain restrictions.
Required Documents:
- MSDS/SDS: Must be issued within three years of the shipping date, comply with 2024/65th Edition DGR, and be in English.
- UN38.3: Required for lithium-ion batteries, valid within three years.
Ensure that the Product Category and HS Code are declared correctly with accurate weight and size.
Category List and Examples
Here are some examples of product categories available on Easyship:
- Accessory (no battery): Charging Cables, Wired Earphones
- Accessory (with battery): Wireless Earphones
- Audio Video: CDs, DVDs
- Bags & Luggage: Suitcases, Handbags
- Books & Collectibles: Books, Magazines
- Cameras: Digital Cameras, DSLRs
- Computers & Laptops: Laptops, Displays
- Documents: Papers, Booklets
- Dry Food & Supplements: Protein Powder, Nuts
- Fashion: Hoodies, T-Shirts
- Gaming: Consoles, Portable Gaming Devices
- Health & Beauty: Lipstick, Lotions
- Home Appliances: Blender, Toaster
- Home Decor: Paintings, Figurines
- Jewelry: Necklaces, Bracelets
- Mobile Phones: iPhones, Androids
- Pet Accessory: Animal Toys, Collars
- Sport & Leisure: Footballs, Equipment
- Tablets: iPads, Kindles
- Toys: Legos, Dolls
- Watches: Wristwatches, Wall Clocks