The Short Answer: Yes, With Proper Compliance
Hand carry shipping is completely legal when done correctly. Professional On Board Courier (OBC) services operate within established customs and airline frameworks every day.
However, legality depends on proper documentation, compliance with regulations, and understanding the rules that govern international transport.
What Makes Hand Carry Shipping Legal
For a hand carry shipment to be fully legal, it must comply with:
- Customs regulations of both origin and destination countries
- Airline policies for passenger baggage
- Import/export laws for the specific goods being transported
- Documentation requirements for commercial items
When these requirements are met, hand carry is not only legal but often preferred for urgent, high-value shipments.
Customs Regulations for Hand Carry
Declaration Requirements
All commercial goods carried personally must be declared at customs. This includes:
- Commercial invoices with accurate item descriptions
- Proof of value and origin
- Import permits where required
- Temporary import documentation for samples
De Minimis Thresholds
Many countries have value thresholds below which simplified customs procedures apply:
| Country | De Minimis Threshold |
|---|---|
| USA | $800 USD |
| EU | €150 EUR |
| UK | £135 GBP |
| Mexico | $50 USD |
Above these thresholds, full customs declaration and potential duties apply.
What You Cannot Carry
Certain items are restricted or prohibited regardless of documentation:
- Controlled substances
- Weapons and ammunition
- Certain agricultural products
- Items violating intellectual property laws
- Sanctioned goods
For more on restrictions, see our guide on hand carry shipment risks.
Airline Rules for Hand Carry Shipments
Airlines have specific policies that affect hand carry operations:
Baggage Restrictions
- Carry-on limits: Typically 7-10kg, specific dimensions
- Checked baggage: Usually 23-32kg per piece
- Dangerous goods: Lithium batteries, liquids, and other items have strict limits
Required Documentation
Airlines may request:
- Proof of commercial purpose
- Customs pre-clearance documents
- Shipper's declaration for certain items
Denied Boarding Risks
A shipment can be denied if:
- Items violate airline dangerous goods policies
- Documentation is incomplete
- Security screening raises concerns
Legal Documentation Checklist
For compliant hand carry shipping, prepare:
Essential Documents
- Commercial Invoice - Detailed description, value, HS codes
- Packing List - Contents and quantities
- Certificate of Origin - When required by trade agreements
- Power of Attorney - Authorizing the courier to act on behalf of shipper
- Customs Declaration Forms - Specific to each country
Industry-Specific Requirements
- Pharmaceuticals: Import licenses, temperature logs
- Electronics: FCC/CE compliance certificates
- Samples: ATA Carnet for temporary imports
- Food products: Phytosanitary certificates
For the latest regulatory changes, see: Customs Regulations 2025 Update
Regional Legal Considerations
United States
- CBP Form 6059B required for all entries
- USMCA rules for Mexico/Canada shipments
- FDA requirements for medical/food items
European Union
- Single customs declaration for EU entry
- GDPR considerations for documents with personal data
- CE marking requirements for electronics
Asia-Pacific
- Varying de minimis thresholds
- Strict documentation for China, Japan
- Quarantine requirements in Australia/New Zealand
Common Legal Mistakes to Avoid
Undervaluation
Declaring lower values to avoid duties is illegal and can result in:
- Seizure of goods
- Heavy fines
- Criminal charges
- Permanent import bans
Misclassification
Incorrectly describing goods leads to:
- Customs delays
- Incorrect duty assessment
- Potential legal liability
Missing Documentation
Arriving without proper paperwork causes:
- Shipment delays
- Storage fees
- Possible return to origin
How Professional OBC Services Ensure Compliance
Professional hand carrier services manage compliance through:
- Pre-shipment documentation review
- Customs classification verification
- Airline policy checks
- Route-specific compliance analysis
Learn more about OBC operations in our guide: What is an OBC?
When to Seek Expert Guidance
Consider professional support when:
- Shipping regulated items (pharmaceuticals, electronics)
- Crossing multiple borders
- Dealing with high-value goods
- Unfamiliar with destination country rules
Staying Compliant with OnFlyGo
Hand carry shipping is legal and effective when compliance is prioritized. Platforms like OnFlyGo help ensure all documentation, customs requirements, and airline rules are properly addressed before your shipment travels.
Learn more about OBC services or explore how hand carrier operations work.
