Know How: Posting Nail Products in the UK

 

In the United Kingdom, the posting and shipping of nail products such as nail polish and nail varnish is governed by a set of well-defined regulations. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of both individuals and the environment given the potentially hazardous nature of some nail product ingredients. For businesses and individuals in the nail beauty industry, understanding these regulations is paramount to ensuring compliance and avoiding any postal pitfalls.

Nail products, primarily due to their flammable nature, are categorised as dangerous goods under postal regulations. When shipped via air freight, nail polish is classified as a Class 3 flammable liquid according to the dangerous goods regulations​​. This designation carries with it certain restrictions and packaging guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with the transportation of flammable materials.

Royal Mail, one of the primary postal services in the UK, has outlined specific guidelines for sending nail products through the mail. Nail varnishes, gels, and gel polish fall under the category of 'restricted items', which means they can be posted, but with adherence to stipulated packaging, volume, quantity, labelling, and product restrictions. Contrastingly, nail varnish removers are entirely prohibited from being sent in the mail due to their flammable nature​.

Moreover, when utilizing the Royal Mail service, the volume per item of nail varnish, polish or gel must not exceed 30ml, and a maximum of four items can be packaged in any one parcel. It's mandatory that these items be placed in strong outer packaging and be so packed, secured, or cushioned to prevent any breakage, puncturing, or leakage into the outer packaging​.

For those looking to ship larger quantities of nail polish or other nail products, it's crucial to adhere to the packaging guidelines which include ensuring each lid is closed tightly to avoid leaking during transport, and using strong outer packaging alongside secure inner packaging to prevent breakage or leakage​.

In conclusion, the regulations surrounding the posting and shipping of nail products in the UK are devised to uphold safety standards. Compliance with these regulations not only avoids potential legal hurdles but also ensures the safe transit of products, thereby upholding the reputation and integrity of businesses within the nail beauty industry.

 
NailsNatalia Kulak