Cargo · June 3, 2026
How to Safely Ship Liquid Cargo
How to ship liquid cargo and what is the process involved?
If you want to ship liquid cargo, the process is often complex and requires following many regulations.
In fact, many shipping services do not accept such products for delivery. Some shipping services can accept liquid cargo shipments, but these are usually accompanied by many restrictions and many criteria.
Image: Freepik
Not to mention if you want to ship liquid cargo abroad? The process can be even more complicated because the destination country will have its own set of regulations.
Liquid cargo needs to be well protected to avoid leaks or damage. If you plan to ship liquids abroad, follow these five important steps:
- Identify the type of liquid to be shipped.
- Find out whether the destination country requires a license to import this product (and if so, obtain the correct license).
- Determine the type of packaging needed to protect the shipment.
- Wrap the shipment carefully - don't forget to add a "fragile" label!
- Find a reliable shipping service.
Can Liquid Cargo Be Shipped?
In short, yes, it is possible.
But of course, it is more complicated than sending solid objects which can be sent directly through the post office.
Clearly, there are various liquid products you may need to ship, from perfume and shampoo to juice and cosmetics.
Many shipping services and countries have different shipping requirements, so you need to know the regulations surrounding the specific type of liquid you will be shipping.
Image: Freepik
As a general rule, non-flammable products are usually easy to ship and can be sent via air, sea, or regular ground shipping services.
Flammable products are somewhat more complicated to handle, but with proper packaging and documentation, they should be able to be shipped as well.
When planning this shipment, there are several things to keep in mind:
- You cannot ship nail polish, gasoline, perfume containing alcohol, alcoholic beverages, or poison internationally through normal service - you will need a cargo provider that has special services for this.
- Aerosol cans and similar items should not be sent by air as they could explode due to air pressure changes - it is better to use ground shipping service.
- Flammable liquids can be shipped, but only in certain quantities.
- Perishable items such as oil, soup, and beverages must reach their destination before expiration - if necessary, pack with ice or other materials that can keep them safe.
- Always use well-sealed boxes and cushioning materials in your packaging.
Read also: Difference Between Cargo Shipping and Regular Expedition
How to Ship Flammable Liquids
It is important to understand that each liquid has a different flash point and flammability tendency.
Air shipping policies are made based on flammable liquid cargo criteria, resulting in various categories and regulations for these products.
Image: Freepik
Shipping service companies usually limit the shipment of goods with high flash points or susceptible to pressure changes at altitude. Examples include perfume and nail polish, which are not suitable for air shipping.
Flammable materials, as defined by a flash point below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, pose inherent hazards and are prohibited in air shipping. However, ground transportation service is an option with certain quantity limits and strict packaging requirements, including qualification testing and proper documentation.
Shipping Alcoholic Beverages Beer and Wine
Shipping alcoholic beverages, such as beer or wine, is more complex in terms of shipping.
Many countries have strict policies for flammable or alcoholic products - and many of them require special licenses for import, as stated according to the Minister of Trade Regulation.
For international commercial shipping, compliance with shipping service company regulations and obtaining import/export licenses is very important.
Shipping alcohol as a gift is better done through retail services with access to appropriate shipping options.
Shipping Perishable Liquids
Perishable items such as soup or milk, with expiration dates, require careful packaging and fast shipping to minimize transit time.
Consider using styrofoam or dry ice for products susceptible to temperature changes during shipping, to ensure freshness upon arrival.
Read also: How to Safely Ship Food Cargo, Beverages, Frozen Food, and Other Perishable Items
How to Pack Liquid Cargo for International Shipping
After learning how to ship these types of products around the world, you need to know how to properly pack these shipments.
Materials
- Plastic or glass bottles that are taped or sealed
- Plastic bags or sealed containers
- Cellulose wrapping paper
- Packing peanuts
- Absorbent packets
- Layered cardboard boxes
- Thermal bubble wrap
- Packing tape
Of course, even if you manage to meet all these requirements, you also need to find out how to carefully pack your shipment.
8 Steps to Safely Pack Liquids for Shipping
- Assemble a cardboard box - use layered boxes (more durable) and don't forget to seal the bottom with tape.
- Wrap each container with wrapping paper.
- Place bottles in cardboard or foam trays and use dividers to keep bottles upright and separated.
- Fill every empty space with packing peanuts or other protective materials so there is no room for movement.
- Close the top of the box and seal multiple times with tape.
- Mark "fragile" on the box so the courier knows how to handle it (don't forget to add "flammable" or "perishable" if necessary).
- Use waterproof bags to protect the containers and prevent spillage.
- Don't forget to use cooler bags or other cooling methods for temperature-sensitive products.
Read also: 8 Trusted Logistics Companies in Jakarta 2023
ABC Express Can Help With Your Liquid Cargo Shipping
Shipping liquids around the world may not be the easiest thing you've ever done.
Fortunately, it's not too difficult if you understand all the regulations and restrictions set by various countries and transportation companies.
ABC Express can help you!
Enjoy a smooth shipping process with ABC Express logistics company in Jakarta.
ABC Express has over 10 years of experience providing logistics solutions. Whether it's cargo service in Indonesia or import-export service, ABC Express only uses the best and most reliable resources to meet the highest standards of your needs.
Contact us via email or phone, or visit our office to get the most accurate information about your logistics and shipping needs. Click here to learn more!
