Firearms and ammunition are prohibited by all couriers. Knives, blades and replicas face strict destination-country restrictions.
Firearms, ammunition and explosives are absolutely prohibited by all major international couriers without exception — these must go through licensed firearms dealers using specialist firearms courier services with appropriate government authorisations. The position on knives, edged tools and replica weapons is more nuanced: many couriers accept kitchen knives, hunting knives, and professional chef's knives when correctly packaged and declared, but destination country import laws vary dramatically. The UK prohibits the import of many knife types. Some countries prohibit any bladed item without an import licence. Replica firearms (realistic-looking toy guns) are prohibited in many countries including the UK. Always research the destination country's specific laws before shipping any bladed or weapon-like item.
| Carrier | Rule / Status |
|---|---|
| DHL Express | Firearms, ammunition, explosives: prohibited. Knives (kitchen, hunting, professional): accepted with correct packaging. Replica weapons: check destination — prohibited to UK and several other countries. |
| FedEx | Firearms: prohibited on standard services (specialist firearms shipping exists). Bladed tools and knives: accepted with declaration. Replica/imitation firearms: prohibited to many destinations. |
| UPS | Firearms and ammunition: prohibited. Kitchen knives and tools: accepted. Hunting knives: accepted with packaging requirements. Realistic replica weapons: destination-dependent, often prohibited. |
| DPD | Firearms: prohibited. Knives: accepted for most EU destinations with correct declaration. Bladed sports equipment (fencing swords, etc.): accepted. Non-EU destinations: check specific country rules. |
| GLS | Firearms: prohibited. Kitchen and professional knives: accepted within EU. Hunting knives and outdoor tools: check route. Replica weapons: check destination laws. |
Rules change frequently. Always verify at carrier websites before booking.
Research the destination country's knife import laws first. In the UK, many knife types are prohibited (flick knives, knives with blades over 3 inches in public). In Germany, automatic knives are restricted. In Australia, carrying concealed knives is broadly prohibited. These country laws apply to imports.
Wrap all bladed items so they cannot cause injury during handling. Each knife must have its blade wrapped in cardboard, foam or a blade guard — no exposed blades. Multiple knives should be individually wrapped and separated in the box.
Declare the contents accurately: 'kitchen knives ×6, stainless steel, [brand], value €X'. Do not try to obscure the nature of the contents — this risks customs seizure and carrier suspension.
For antique weapons (over 100 years old), additional documentation may be required. EU rules on antique firearms are governed by Directive 91/477/EEC. Export from Portugal may require an INAC permit.
For sporting equipment (fencing foils, historical re-enactment swords), include documentation confirming the sporting or cultural purpose — this reduces customs scrutiny.
For any doubt about a specific item, contact the carrier's dangerous goods or restricted items team before booking — not after.
Kitchen knives are generally accepted by couriers and ship without issue when correctly packaged. Wrap each blade in thick cardboard and tape — handlers must be able to pick up the package safely.
The UK specifically prohibits the import of zombie knives, gravity knives, butterfly knives, and knuckle dusters — items legal in some EU countries. Check UK Gov import rules if shipping to the UK.
Replica firearms (even obviously toy ones) are prohibited in the UK under the Violent Crime Reduction Act unless specific exemptions apply. Most couriers will not accept realistic replicas to UK addresses.
For a licensed firearms dealer or sportsperson shipping a legally owned firearm, specialist carriers (e.g. World Courier, specialist firearms logistics) exist — this is not a standard courier service and requires export licences.
Bladed kitchen tools sold as sets (knife blocks, carving sets) typically ship without issues to EU destinations when correctly declared. Just ensure robust packaging so blades are fully protected.
Yes. Kitchen knives, chef's knife sets and cooking tools with blades are accepted by DHL, UPS, FedEx, DPD and GLS for most international destinations. Each knife must be individually wrapped so blades are fully protected and cannot cause injury. Declare accurately as 'kitchen knives' on the customs form.
This depends on the specific knife. Fixed-blade hunting knives are legal in the UK if for a legitimate purpose (hunting, outdoor sports) but their import is scrutinised. Knives with blades over 3 inches are illegal to carry in public in the UK. Research the specific UK knife laws for the type of knife before shipping.
Not through standard courier services. DHL, UPS, FedEx, DPD and GLS all prohibit firearms. Legal international firearms transfers must go through licensed firearms dealers using specialist carriers, with export permits from the Portuguese National Republican Guard (GNR) or equivalent authority, and import permits from the destination country.
Toy guns (clearly non-realistic children's toys, brightly coloured) are generally accepted. Realistic replica or imitation firearms are prohibited to many countries — particularly the UK (Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006), Australia and Canada. Always check destination country rules before shipping any replica.
If a knife is prohibited under the destination country's laws, customs will seize and typically destroy it. You may receive a notification and forfeit the item. If the knife is permitted but incorrectly declared (e.g. value underreported), it may be held pending duty payment. Correct declaration and destination research prevents both scenarios.
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