Guide to Shipping Supplements Internationally 

Understanding International Shipping Supplement

The demand for supplements internationally is growing, Health & Wellness goods saw a 201% year-over-year increase in growth in 2024. Supplements were a large percentage of that international demand. However, shipping supplements internationally presents unique challenges due to varying regulations, carrier restrictions, and compliance requirements. Merchants looking to expand internationally must navigate these complexities carefully to ensure successful deliveries and avoid regulatory pitfalls. This guide provides an in-depth look at the critical factors to consider when shipping supplements worldwide. 

Supplements vs. Medicine 

One of the most important distinctions in international supplement shipping is how a product is classified by regulators and its intended use: is it categorized as a supplement or a medicine? This classification directly affects the level of regulatory scrutiny applied during import and the relevant requirements which must be met before importation is allowed. 

Many countries have strict laws and regulations against products with pharmacological effects that are intended to treat specific medical conditions but are not subject to the rigorous standards required of pharmaceuticals. Products that are marketed, manufactured, and labeled as addressing a specific medical condition—but are not prescribed by a doctor—may be restricted or prohibited from importation. Even if a product is not intended to treat a specific medical condition, its composition and ingredients may result with it being considered a pharmaceutical medicine.  

Merchants should avoid making medical claims unless the product is formally classified and approved as a medicine in the destination country with the appropriate regulatory certification. Failure to do so can result in shipments being delayed, seizure, rejected, or denied entry. 

Key Challenges & Considerations 

Market Specific Restrictions 

Different countries impose unique regulations on supplement imports, making compliance a crucial part of international shipping. Below, you’ll see an example of one difficult market and one easier market to illustrate the spectrum of regulatory environments. 

Spain: A Difficult Market 

Shipments of all products destined for the EU are subject to both EU-level and national-level regulations from the European Union Law and European Food Safety Authority. To legally import and sell food supplements in the European Union, brands must meet a strict set of regulatory requirements designed to protect consumer health and ensure product transparency. These include: 

• Licensing or permit approval for importation and sale 

• Compliant product labeling, including language, nutritional content, and usage instructions 

• Certification that the supplement contains no prohibited or restricted ingredients, and that maximum tolerance levels for certain substances (e.g., heavy metals, vitamins, minerals) are not exceeded 

• Verification that all health and advertising claims are scientifically substantiated and authorized under EU regulations 

• Proof of pre-market safety evaluations, demonstrating the product does not pose health risks 

• Registration with the appropriate competent authority in each EU country where the supplement is sold, allowing for market surveillance and product monitoring 

Failure to meet any of these requirements can result in customs holds, product recalls, or legal enforcement actions. 

Even if all EU level requirements are met, it’s also necessary to ensure all potential Spanish import requirements are also satisfied. Depending on the ingredients, composition, and intended application, EU and Spanish regulators, there are two possible categorizations for supplements.  

Most general nutritional and health supplements are considered “food supplements”. Products with formulations containing vitamins and/or minerals in higher doses, pharmaceutical inputs, have pharmacological or physiological effects, and are intended to treat a specific condition are considered to be medicines. Classification as a medicine carries heavy restrictions: 

• Only authorized importers can import products classified as medicine. The importer must hold an import permit issued by the Ministry of Health, and the product must be registered in Spain. 

• Private individuals may only import medicine with a doctor’s prescription and a special import authorization from the Ministry of Health. Both documents must be obtained prior to shipping. 

• Non-compliance will result in the shipment being returned to the sender or destroyed, which can result in costly issues for your business. Even products labeled as supplements may be reclassified as medicine based on their ingredients and intended use. 

Given these hurdles, Spain is considered a restrictive markets for supplement shipments, especially for direct-to-consumer orders. Additionally, countries like Spain that are part of the EU need to make sure they are following regulations both in the destination country and EU regulations. Read more about specifics in our Spain Import Guide. 

United Kingdom: An Easier Market 

In contrast, the UK is one of the more accessible markets for shipping supplements internationally: 

• Most nutritional or dietary supplements—including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids—are regulated as food preparations, not medicines. 

• Products that fall under general wellness are typically not classified as medicine, regardless of form (pill, capsule, powder, or liquid). 

While the UK does maintain oversight and labeling requirements, these are generally easier to meet and do not require special permits or licenses for most supplements. Read more about specifics in our UK Country Guide.  

Carrier Limitations 

Not all shipping carriers accept supplements, and some impose limitations based on ingredients or packaging. FedEx, for example, has specific restrictions on certain products, making it important for merchants to confirm carrier policies before shipping. Large liquid bottles, particularly those with droppers, may face additional scrutiny. In some cases, these items could be classified under dangerous goods regulations, requiring extra paperwork and compliance measures. 

Carriers will rely on the information provided by the merchant and tendered by the shipping platform, making it crucial to have accurate classification, descriptions, and declarations. Having a shipping platform that understands these requirements, as well as unique carrier restrictions, can prevent shipping mishaps.  

Classification and Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Codes 

The proper classification of supplements is essential for customs clearance. The HTS code used determines how the product is regulated in the destination country. Products like fish oil or single-ingredient supplements may be classified differently based on their essential character. Classification should always consider: 

• Intended purpose: for general well being vs. treatment of specific medical conditions 

• Ingredients and material composition: active ingredients and additives along with proportions  

• Form and packaging: retail ready vs. measured doses for specified use 

Active ingredients affect classification, and some products are typically subject to greater import controls. Merchants should review classifications with trade compliance experts to ensure accuracy. 

Private Import vs. Commercial Orders 

In many countries, regulations differ depending on whether a supplement is being imported for personal use or commercial distribution. Personal use shipments typically face fewer restrictions, while wholesale imports generally require certifications, approvals, and additional paperwork. Even if you’re shipping a smaller, personal use quantity, there are certain ingredients which are restricted or banned, and it’s compulsory to ensure your products do not contain any such ingredient.  

To ensure compliance, merchants should limit customer orders at checkout to fall within the personal import thresholds set by each destination country and region. For example, if shipping to an EU country, remain under the threshold for that country and the EU threshold for personal consumption. This includes restrictions on quantity, weight, and ingredient content. Implementing these private import limitations during checkout can prevent non-compliant shipments and reduce customs issues. 

For broader international expansion or wholesale orders, if shipping more than a private import amount (generally one month supply, though each country will have different personal import restrictions) you will be required to provide import permits, licenses, inspection and registration to pass customs. Large shipments of supplements are normally stopped and help at borders to ensure they are following compliance and adherence to EU import laws. An alternate option is working with certified resellers or setting up local distribution centers may be a strategic alternative. These partners can act as the official importer, manage documentation, and ensure compliance with local regulations. 

Product Descriptions  

Merchants must use product descriptions that are specific and informative. Generic descriptions such as “Miracle cure. Treats depression and anxiety.” are insufficient and often raise red flags during customs inspections. 

Descriptions should include: 

• Product purpose (general wellness vs. medical dietary management) 

• Succinct description of what it is 

• Form (capsules, powder, liquid, etc.) 

• Intended use (daily dosage, for example) 

The lack of adequate description and failure to meet unpublished country-specific thresholds has caused delays in the past and should be a foundational step done before shipping internationally. 

Best Practices for Merchants 

Implementing Cart Restrictions 

To prevent customers from purchasing supplements that cannot be shipped to their location, merchants should integrate country specific shipping restrictions into their online store’s checkout process. This can be done through development work or by using apps designed to block non-compliant international shipments or setting limits on how much can be purchased at a time based on personal use guidelines. By flagging restricted items before purchase, businesses can reduce the risk of failed deliveries and chargebacks. 

Consulting with Experts 

Given the complexities of international supplement shipping, merchants should work closely with logistics experts, compliance specialists, and regulatory consultants. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) shipments often have different requirements than wholesale orders, so receiving tailored advice is essential. Speaking with professionals can help you navigate the regulatory landscape and identify the best shipping strategies for each market. Reach out to the FlavorCloud team of experts if you have questions.  

Optimizing Origin Strategy 

In certain cases, shipping from a certified facility within your destination market may enable you to ship supplements commercially without facing excessive regulatory barriers. In this scenario your distributor is responsible for clearing the supplements with local regulation. If using this method, you still must remain complaint, but it may help streamline the process. Understanding which countries allow for this strategy can help businesses optimize their logistics and reduce compliance challenges. 

Staying Updated on Regulatory Changes 

The global regulatory environment for supplements is constantly evolving. Authorities are increasing scrutiny on health claims, ingredient transparency, and import procedures. Merchants must stay informed about changing regulations to maintain compliance and avoid unexpected disruptions. Regular audits and compliance checks can help businesses stay ahead of potential issues. 

Action Steps for Merchants 

Before shipping supplements internationally, merchants should take the following steps: 

1. Determine how your products are classified in the destination market.
2. Verify carrier restrictions to ensure compatibility with the chosen shipping provider. 
3. Confirm proper HTS codes and intended product use. 
4. Work with customs networks to understand licensing and import documentation requirements if applicable. 
5. Develop a clear international shipping policy that outlines compliance procedures and customer expectations. 
6. Monitor regulatory updates to stay ahead of changing import rules. 

Successfully shipping supplements internationally requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and strategic logistics solutions. By implementing best practices and working with experts, you can expand your global reach while minimizing risks. With proper preparation and adherence to regulatory requirements, businesses can navigate the complexities of international supplement shipping and deliver products to customers worldwide. 

From routing intelligence to product classification to customs clearance, FlavorCloud assists the fastest-growing supplement merchants with cross-border support. To learn more, schedule a growth consultation.