Shipping electronics overseas can be a real headache, right?

You’re probably nodding along if you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with questions like: "Can I ship electronics overseas?" "What kind of electronics can I ship?" "Do I need special paperwork?"

Sounds like you? Then keep reading.

In this guide, we'll walk you through:

• Regulations for shipping electronics
• A list of 20 commonly shipped electronics and tips on how to package them.

Regulations for Shipping Electronics

Navigating the rules and regulations around shipping electronics might seem like a puzzle, but let's simplify it together.

First off, let's talk about Dangerous Goods (DG).

Some electronics, such as laptops, power banks, and e-scooters, which contain lithium batteries, fall into this category. But why is that? These items can pose safety risks if they are not handled appropriately.

Missteps with DG can lead to not just serious mishaps, but also substantial fines from regulatory bodies.

So, it's incredibly important to be mindful of these rules.

For a deeper understanding, our blog post on “Shipping Dangerous Goods” is an excellent resource. We encourage you to check it out.

Now, let's talk about something a bit more unique. Each country has its own rules regarding importing electronics. For instance:

• India: Shipping electronics to India involves certain restrictions.
• Malaysia: Shipping electronics to Malaysia typically requires a special permit known as a SIRIM permit.
  

So, before you ship, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the import rules of your destination country.

Taking this small step can help prevent major issues down the line, ensuring your shipping process is as smooth as possible.

20 Common Electronics You Can Safely Ship Overseas

Now, onto the good stuff: the comprehensive list of 20 electronics you can confidently ship with us.

Please note, the last three items might require additional paperwork due to their DG status.

1. Smartphones

Despite their compact and robust nature, smartphones can be prone to screen damage. Wrap your smartphone in bubble wrap and secure it in a small padded box to prevent movement.

2. Tablets

Tablets, like smartphones, require protective measures for their large screens. Apply a protective film and use bubble wrap for your tablet. Secure it in a rigid box with ample padding to safeguard its large screen.

3. Desktop Computers

Desktop computers are usually bulky and fragile. Detach any removable components and wrap them individually. Secure the desktop in a well-padded, sturdy box.

Need a detailed guide? Take a look at our “How to Ship Desktop Computers Overseas” article.

4. Keyboards

While keyboards are durable, they can get damaged if heavy items are placed on them during transit. To protect keyboards from damage, wrap them in bubble wrap and use a box that provides sufficient room without allowing unnecessary movement.

5. TVs

Shipping TVs, particularly large-screen ones, can be tricky. The original packaging is optimal for shipping. If it's unavailable, protect the screen with a film and use ample padding. Extra-large TVs may require custom crates.

6. Speakers

Speakers are prone to punctures, particularly those with exposed cones. Wrap each speaker in bubble wrap, with additional layers for the cones. Consider the double box method (two boxes separated by packing peanuts) for more security.

7. Gaming Consoles

Although sturdy, gaming consoles need careful handling as their components can get dislodged during transport. Wrap detachable components like controllers separately, and secure the console in a box with sufficient padding.

8. Home Appliances

Home appliances vary from small kitchen gadgets to larger items like vacuum cleaners. Wrap each item separately in bubble wrap and pack securely in a padded box that accommodates the item comfortably.

9. Smart Home Devices

Smart home devices can range from compact plugs to larger appliances. Wrap each item separately in bubble wrap, and use a box that can comfortably accommodate the device with additional padding.

10. Digital Cameras

Camera bodies and lenses should be shipped separately for better protection. Use lens and body caps for added safety. Wrap each item separately and pack them in a foam or bubble wrap-filled box.

Check out our dedicated guide on "Shipping Cameras Internationally" for more tips.

11. Drones

Drones require special care due to their delicate and protruding components. Detach any removable parts and wrap separately. The drone and its components should be packed in a sturdy box with ample padding.

12. Smart Watches

Smart watches, though small, are delicate. Package them similarly to smartphones - wrapped in bubble wrap and nestled in a small, well-padded box.

13. Headphones

Headphones, depending on their type, can be somewhat fragile. Bubble wrap them before placing them in a box. For high-value or particularly delicate headphones, consider using a hard case for added protection.

14. Fitness Trackers

Fitness trackers are robust but small. They should be wrapped in bubble wrap, placed in a small bag or box, and then placed inside a larger, padded shipping box.

15. Hard Drives

Hard drives are incredibly sensitive to shock. Place them in a box with lots of padding. Consider using foam padding that can provide shock absorption during transit.

16. Printers

Printers are bulky and delicate, requiring careful handling. Always remove cartridges before shipping. Use plenty of bubble wrap around the printer, focusing on sensitive areas like the feeder and output tray. A sturdy, padded box is a must.

17. E-Readers

E-Readers need the same level of care as tablets. Wrap the device in bubble wrap, and securely package it in a well-padded box.

The following 3 items may require additional paperwork:

18. Laptops

With their multitude of components and delicate screens, laptops require extra care. Use bubble wrap for initial protection and consider using a laptop shipping box for added safety.

Now, most of the time (about 90%), no additional paperwork is necessary.

However, if you are shipping more than approximately three laptops in a single package or dealing with a high-powered gaming laptop that has a large battery, we may require the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to assess whether the package needs to be shipped as a dangerous good.

For more details, check out our guide on "Shipping Electronics Overseas: Shipping Laptops and Handphones".

19. Portable Power Bank

Power banks are typically sturdy, but their batteries need special attention. Pack it in a rigid box with plenty of cushioning.

Usually, power banks do not require extra paperwork.

However, if you're shipping power banks with a high capacity or in large quantities, you might need to adhere to specific regulations and paperwork due to the nature of their batteries.

As such, it's important to declare the power bank during shipping to ensure a smooth transportation process.

20. E-Scooter

image source: hypeandstuff.com

E-Scooters, especially models with built-in batteries, require careful packaging and often additional paperwork.

These models are typically classified as Dangerous Goods (DG) due to their large batteries, meaning you'll need to file a Dangerous Goods Declaration and possibly pay a minimum top-up of $231.50 for specialised handling.

It's also essential to use a UN-approved box (that can only be purchased from special Dangerous Goods packers) for shipping such items.

Others simply need robust, rigid outer packaging. Regardless, it's imperative that the inner packing prevents any movement during shipping to avoid damage.

For a detailed guide, check out our “Shipping E-Scooters: Everything You Need To Know - From Packing to Shipping” guide.

That wraps up our list of 20 common electronics that you can safely ship overseas with JustShip.

We understand that the world of electronics is vast, and perhaps the item you wish to ship didn't make it to our list. No worries at all, let's look at what you can do next.

What's Next: Shipping Other Electronics with JustShip

Didn't find your electronic item in our list of 20 commonly shipped electronics? No problem! JustShip is equipped to handle a wide range of electronics, not just the ones listed above.

Follow our simple, step-by-step guide to get your electronic device ready for shipping:

1. Does your device have a battery?

Start with the basics. Check if your electronic device has batteries. This simple check can save you a ton of time down the line, as the presence of batteries can affect how we ship your item.

2. Is it a high-powered battery?

If your device has a battery, it's essential to determine its power level. Devices with low-powered batteries, similar to those in smartphones, are usually safe for shipping. However, those with high-powered batteries, such as those in laptops, might need a bit more attention.

3. Obtain the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

For electronics with high-powered batteries, you need to acquire the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from the manufacturer. This document provides information about potential hazards, properties, and handling procedures of the item.

4. Reach out to us.

Contact us via WhatsApp or email, providing us with the MSDS, dimensions, weight, quantity of items or batteries, and full destination address.

5. Review & Quote

Our team will review your information and provide a quote. We'll also guide you on whether your items need to be shipped as Dangerous Goods (DG) to ensure compliance with international regulations.

6. Ready, Set, Ship!

If you're happy with the quote, fill out the shipment form, arrange for pickup or drop-off, and leave the rest to us!

Ready to Ship the Listed Electronics?

Found your items in our list? Then it's time to get them shipped!

1. Fill up the shipment form: Complete the shipment form on our website. We also offer packing services if you prefer to have professionals handle it.
2. Pick up/Drop off: Our courier will collect your package from your location. Alternatively, you can drop off your package at our office.
3. Processing your electronics: Our expert team will manage all necessary paperwork for your shipment, including the Dangerous Goods (DG) declaration form, airway bill, and commercial invoice.
4. Track your shipment: Once your electronics are en route, we'll send you a tracking email so you can monitor their journey.

Don't let the complexities of shipping electronics intimidate you. At JustShip, we make the process straightforward and hassle-free.

So whether your item is on our list or not, get in touch with us today for a personalised quote.

Let's get your shipment on its way!