How to Ship Cookies Internationally
Cookies can seem simple to ship, but food is one of the categories that needs extra care. The rules depend on the ingredients, destination country, shelf life, packaging and courier restrictions.
Jetkrate may be able to forward some commercially packaged food items, but you should always check before ordering or shipping cookies internationally.
First, check whether they are allowed
Before buying cookies for international shipping, check:
- The destination country's food import rules
- Whether the cookies contain dairy, meat, honey, seeds or fresh ingredients
- Whether the product is commercially packaged and sealed
- Whether ingredients are clearly listed
- The expiry or best-before date
- Whether the courier accepts the product type
Homemade, unpackaged or perishable cookies are often more difficult and may not be accepted.
Packaging matters
Cookies need to be protected from crushing, heat and movement. Retail packaging alone may not be enough for international shipping. Tins, rigid boxes and inner wrapping usually travel better than thin plastic trays or paper bags.
If the cookies are fragile, assume some breakage risk during transit.
Customs declarations for cookies
Food descriptions should be clear and accurate. Avoid vague terms such as "snacks" if the parcel contains cookies. A better description might be "commercially packaged chocolate biscuits" or "sealed shortbread cookies".
Declare the correct value and do not misdescribe food to avoid restrictions.
Shipping cookies bought from overseas stores
If you are buying cookies from New Zealand, the UK, Australia or the United States, you can use your Jetkrate address only if the product is suitable for forwarding. Check with Jetkrate first if the item contains restricted ingredients or if you are unsure.
Some food items may be refused, returned or disposed of if they cannot be shipped.
Order early and avoid heat-sensitive products
Cookies can be affected by heat, customs delays and rough handling. Avoid products with soft fillings, chocolate coatings or short shelf lives unless you accept the risk.
Before you ship cookies
Check the rules first, choose sturdy commercial packaging and allow extra time. If in doubt, ask Jetkrate before the parcel is sent to our warehouse.