Want to ship hemp internationally in 2026? Understanding international hemp shipping regulations is critical before your first export.

Global demand for CBD products keeps rising. However, compliance frameworks vary dramatically across borders. Different countries maintain different THC thresholds, documentation requirements, and import policies.

This guide walks you through THC limits by country. Additionally, we cover required documentation, customs processes, and common pitfalls. Whether you’re exporting CBD flower, isolate, or distillate, you’ll learn exactly what’s needed for legal shipments.

Is International Hemp Shipping Legal in 2026?

The short answer depends entirely on your destination country.

In the United States, hemp is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. This law allows U.S. companies to legally grow, process, and export hemp products. The requirement is simple: products must contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

However, each destination country sets its own rules. CBD flower, distillate, and isolate face different regulations depending on the market. Additionally, THCa flower is treated like high-THC cannabis in many international jurisdictions.

The 0.3% Standard Isn’t Universal

The 0.3% delta-9 THC threshold is strictly a U.S. standard. Some countries accept 1.0% THC. Others require 0.0%. Understanding your destination’s specific regulations is non-negotiable before shipping.

Customs officials focus specifically on delta-9 THC levels. Total THC or THCa measurements may not satisfy import requirements. Therefore, accurate lab testing is essential for every shipment.

Country-by-Country THC Thresholds (2026)

THC limits vary dramatically across international markets. Below is a snapshot of key destination countries. These regulations change periodically, so always verify current limits before shipping.

For a comprehensive country-by-country breakdown, see our complete guide: THC Limits for Hemp Shipping by Country (2026 Guide).

Key Considerations Beyond THC Limits

Meeting THC thresholds is necessary but not sufficient. Additional factors include:

• Delta-9 THC vs Total THC: Some countries specify delta-9 only. Others reference total THC including THCa.
• Product Type: Flower faces stricter scrutiny than isolate or distillate.
• Intended Use: Products for consumption have different requirements than industrial hemp.
• Import Licensing: Some countries require importers to hold specific licenses.

Required Documentation for International Hemp Shipments

Proper documentation determines whether your hemp shipment clears customs quickly. Missing even one document can trigger significant delays or seizures.

Every international hemp shipment requires a complete documentation package. Below is the standard documentation stack required for most destinations.

Additional Documents Some Countries Require

• Phytosanitary Certificate: For agricultural products in certain markets
• Certificate of Origin: Shows where hemp was grown
• Import License: From destination country authorities
• GMP Certificate: For edibles or pharmaceutical-grade products

For a complete step-by-step breakdown, see our ultimate hemp freight compliance checklist.

How Customs Clearance Works for Hemp Products

Understanding the customs clearance process helps set realistic expectations. It also prevents unnecessary anxiety when shipping hemp internationally.

Standard Customs Process

Once your hemp shipment arrives, customs officials follow a standard review process:

1. Document Review: Officials examine all submitted documentation.
2. Classification: Products are classified based on cannabinoid content.
3. Inspection Decision: Customs determines if physical inspection is needed.
4. Verification: If inspected, officials verify COA accuracy and labeling.
5. Clearance or Hold: Compliant shipments are released. Non-compliant products get seized.

What Triggers Physical Inspections

Certain factors increase the likelihood of physical inspection:

• First-time shipper to that destination
• Inconsistencies between documents
• Vague or unclear product descriptions
• Suspicious packaging or labeling
• Random selection protocols

Critical Rule: Declare Everything Accurately

Never hide or understate cannabinoid content. Some exporters try to minimize THC levels on invoices. This strategy backfires catastrophically.

Customs officials use advanced testing methods. If they discover undeclared content, your shipment gets seized immediately. Additionally, you damage relationships with customs authorities.

Transparency and accuracy build trust. Clear, honest declarations result in faster clearance over time.

How Long Does International Hemp Shipping Take?

When documentation is complete and products meet requirements, international hemp shipping typically takes 2 to 5 days. This includes customs clearance and final delivery.

Timeline Breakdown

Factors That Impact Shipping Speed

• Product Type: Distillate and isolate clear faster than flower.
• Documentation Quality: Complete, professional docs prevent holds.
• Shipper History: Established exporters clear faster.
• Customs Volume: Holiday periods can add 1-2 days.
• Random Inspections: Physical inspections add 2-3 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Hemp Internationally

Many exporters make preventable errors. These result in delays, seizures, or financial losses. Learn from these common pitfalls.

Assuming U.S. Standards Apply Globally

The biggest mistake is thinking 0.3% THC works everywhere. European countries range from 0.0% to 1.0%. Asian markets often prohibit THC entirely. Therefore, always research your specific destination thoroughly.

Incomplete or Expired Documentation

Even one missing or outdated document delays shipments by weeks. Common issues include expired hemp licenses, old COAs, or incomplete invoices.

Maintain a master checklist for each destination country. Consequently, double-check everything before shipping.

Shipping “Hot” Batches

Some exporters ship hemp testing at 0.29% THC to 0.3% markets. They assume they have margin for error. However, customs officials may retest using different labs.

If retesting shows 0.31% THC, your shipment gets seized. Ship products testing well below legal limits. Aim for 0.25% or lower in 0.3% markets.

Poor Labeling and Packaging

Words like “marijuana,” “weed,” or “cannabis” trigger red flags. Even compliant products can be seized for improper labeling.

Use neutral terms like “hemp extract” or “CBD flower.” Additionally, avoid imagery suggesting psychoactive effects.

Working with Inexperienced Logistics Partners

General freight brokers often lack hemp-specific knowledge. They may classify products incorrectly or miss required documents.

Verify any logistics partner has proven hemp shipping experience. Ask for client references and examples of successful clearances.

Hemp Products Available for International Export

Not all hemp products ship equally well internationally. Some face stricter scrutiny. Others clear customs relatively easily.

White Label and Custom Formulations

Beyond standard products, many exporters need custom solutions. These include custom cannabinoid ratios, branded packaging, and private label options.

When sourcing hemp products for export, work with suppliers who understand destination requirements. They should provide proper documentation for each product type.

Why Traditional Carriers No Longer Ship Hemp Internationally

If you’ve tried shipping hemp through UPS or FedEx recently, you’ve encountered their prohibitions. Both major carriers now refuse international hemp shipments. This applies regardless of THC content or legal compliance.

What Changed

UPS updated their prohibited items policy. They now ban all hemp and CBD products from international shipments. This includes CBD flower, distillate, isolate, THCa products, and edibles.

FedEx maintains similar restrictions. Traditional carriers decided that navigating international hemp compliance was too complex.

Why This Happened

Several factors drove major carriers out of hemp shipping:

• Regulatory Complexity: Every country has different THC limits.
• Liability Concerns: Risk of legal consequences if shipments violate laws.
• Customs Issues: Hemp shipments face higher scrutiny and delays.
• Risk Management: Carriers chose to exit rather than manage compliance.

For a detailed analysis, read our guide: Why UPS Stopped International Hemp Shipments.

Your Alternatives

Despite carrier restrictions, international hemp shipping remains viable. Specialized freight forwarders understand compliance requirements. They maintain relationships with carriers willing to transport hemp.

Alternatively, work with vertically integrated suppliers. These producers handle logistics in-house. They control the entire supply chain from cultivation to delivery.

Sourcing Hemp with Built-In International Logistics

At Frosty Club, we’ve been shipping hemp products internationally since 2019. We’ve successfully distributed thousands of pounds to Europe and beyond.

Our Approach: Vertical Integration

We control everything in-house. This includes hemp cultivation on our California farms, processing in our labs, lab testing, packaging, documentation preparation, and freight coordination.

When you purchase hemp from Frosty Club, international shipping is already solved. Every shipment leaves with complete documentation and clears customs efficiently.

Our Track Record

Since 2019, we’ve cleared thousands of pallets through customs. We’ve shipped to Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, and the UK. Our average clearance time is 2 to 3 days.

We’ve built dedicated shipping lanes with repeat clearance. Customs officials recognize our documentation style. Our products consistently test well below THC limits. Most importantly, we’ve never had a seizure in five years.

Get Your International Hemp Product Quote

Shipping hemp internationally doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is sourcing from suppliers who’ve already solved logistics challenges.

What You Get with Frosty Club

Products Available for International Shipping

• CBD Flower (bulk biomass or retail-ready)
• CBD Pre-Rolls (custom labeling available)
• CBD Distillate (lab-tested, customs-friendly)
• CBD Isolate (works in restrictive markets)
• CBD Kief (high-potency concentrate)
• CBD Gummies and Topicals (where permitted)
• White Label Solutions (custom formulations)

Whether you’re entering European markets or scaling distribution, purchasing from Frosty Club eliminates compliance uncertainty. We handle the complexity. You focus on growing your business.

Click here to get your international hemp product quote

All products ship with complete documentation and consistent quality. You get peace of mind from working with a team that’s successfully exported hemp for over five years.