A Guide by Xtra Mile Couriers
When planning a delivery, it’s important to know that not all items are eligible for shipping. Every courier company, including Xtra Mile Couriers, has rules on what can and can’t be transported. Some items are too risky, some are illegal, and others simply don’t survive the journey.
Understanding these restrictions can help you avoid delays, damaged parcels, or legal issues. In this guide, we explain why certain items are banned, share a list of commonly restricted goods, and outline Xtra Mile Couriers’ specific policies.
Why Do Courier Companies Restrict Certain Items?
There are three main reasons courier companies refuse to transport certain goods:
1. Safety
Hazardous materials—like flammable liquids or explosives—can endanger people, vehicles, and facilities. Banning these items protects drivers, staff, and sorting equipment from potential harm.
2. Legal Regulations
Some items are illegal to transport under UK and international law. This includes narcotics, counterfeit products, and certain weapons. Couriers must comply with strict national and international shipping rules.
3. Logistical Challenges
Items that spoil quickly or need special handling, such as fresh food or live animals, don’t suit regular delivery processes. These may require refrigeration, ventilation, or legal paperwork that most couriers cannot provide.
At Xtra Mile Couriers, we work hard to deliver packages safely and on time. To do this, we must follow clear rules on what we can and cannot carry.
Common Items Courier Companies Will Not Deliver
Here is a list of items that most courier companies, including Xtra Mile Couriers, will not deliver:
1. Hazardous Materials
Examples:
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Petrol, diesel, and other flammable liquids
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Fireworks and explosives
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Industrial chemicals and acids
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Radioactive materials
Why?
These items are dangerous in transit and heavily regulated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and local laws.
2. Illegal Substances
Examples:
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Narcotics or controlled drugs
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Counterfeit goods
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Stolen property
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Unlicensed prescription medication
Why?
Transporting illegal items is against the law. Attempting to ship such goods could lead to fines, confiscation, or criminal charges.
3. Perishable Goods
Examples:
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Raw meat and seafood
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Dairy products
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Fresh fruit and vegetables
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Frozen foods
Why?
Without temperature-controlled logistics, these items may spoil or leak, causing damage or contamination.
4. Live Animals
Examples:
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Dogs, cats, or other pets
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Livestock such as chickens or goats
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Reptiles and exotic animals
Why?
Transporting live animals requires specialist conditions and licences that most couriers don’t have. Animal welfare concerns also play a big part.
5. High-Value or Irreplaceable Items
Examples:
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Large amounts of cash
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Rare jewellery or gold bullion
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Original passports or important documents
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Collectables or artworks
Why?
These items carry a high risk of loss or theft and are often excluded from courier insurance policies.
6. Weapons and Ammunition
Examples:
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Guns and rifles
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Knives, swords, or other blades
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Ammunition and gunpowder
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Replica weapons
Why?
Strict legal controls prevent most couriers from handling weapons. Even replicas can cause alarm or legal issues during transit.
7. Alcohol and Tobacco Products
Examples:
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Bottles of wine, beer, or spirits
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Cigarettes, cigars, or loose tobacco
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Vapes and e-liquids
Why?
These items are age-restricted and subject to tax regulations. Delivery rules vary across regions, making it difficult for couriers to stay compliant.
8. Fragile Items Without Proper Packaging
Examples:
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Glassware or ceramics in soft wrapping
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TVs, monitors, or electronics not in original packaging
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Paintings or mirrors without protection
Why?
Improperly packed items are likely to break, which can damage other parcels and increase insurance claims.
Xtra Mile Couriers’ Specific Policies
At Xtra Mile Couriers, we place safety, compliance, and customer service at the heart of everything we do. In line with industry best practices, we also restrict the delivery of certain goods.
In addition to the items listed above, we do not deliver the following:
Medical Waste and Biohazard Materials
Includes: Used syringes, blood samples, biological specimens, or hospital waste.
Reason: These materials require specialist disposal and handling by medical waste services.
Oversized Items
We have maximum limits for size and weight. If your item is unusually large, please contact us directly for advice. We may be able to arrange a special service or recommend an alternative solution.
Restricted Local Items
Certain items may be restricted by local council laws or regional delivery rules. These can vary, so we encourage customers to check with our team before booking a delivery.
How to Make Sure Your Shipment Is Compliant
Avoiding issues is easy when you follow these simple steps:
1. Check the Prohibited Items List
Before packaging anything, review our guidelines online or contact us directly. We keep our list up to date so you know what’s allowed.
2. Package Your Item Properly
Use strong boxes, bubble wrap, and proper labels. If your item is fragile or needs extra care, let us know—we’ll help you protect it.
3. Declare Contents Accurately
Be honest and accurate when describing what you’re shipping. This helps us route and handle your package safely.
4. Ask Our Team for Advice
Unsure if your item is allowed? Just give us a call or email. We’ll be happy to confirm whether we can transport it—or recommend an alternative.
FAQs About Prohibited Items
Can I send alcohol through Xtra Mile Couriers?
No. Due to licensing restrictions, we do not transport alcohol. Consider using a specialist service if needed.
Are there size and weight limits?
Yes. Each vehicle has specific limits. Check our Shipping Guidelines or contact us for more details about your parcel.
What happens if I try to ship a banned item?
We may have to return, destroy, or report the item depending on its nature. You may also incur additional fees or penalties.
Can I ship electronics?
Yes, but they must be well-packaged and declared accurately. For high-value electronics, we may recommend extra insurance or signed delivery.
Contact Xtra Mile Couriers
If you have any questions about what we can or can’t deliver, we’re here to help. You can:
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Visit our website and read our Shipping Policies
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Use our online chat for quick answers
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Call or email us to speak with our friendly customer service team
Let’s make sure your next delivery goes smoothly.
Conclusion: What will courier companies not deliver?
Understanding what courier companies won’t deliver is essential for a successful shipment. Items like hazardous materials, live animals, illegal goods, or fragile items without proper packaging are usually banned across the industry. At Xtra Mile Couriers, we follow these rules strictly to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance.
By checking our prohibited items list, packaging your parcel correctly, and speaking with our team, you can avoid delays, extra costs, and potential legal problems.
Need help? Contact Xtra Mile Couriers today, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
🚚 Safe. Secure. On Time. Every Time.
Xtra Mile Couriers: Delivering Excellence Every Time
