powder for drink to detox sent from China

[ozterix]

a friend of mine sent 2 boxes of sachets with powder or tree roots and herb mixed to dissolve in water and drink as meal replacement for 2 weeks.

TNT called and said I need an import license and the custom will destroy the package if I don't get it.

The stuff was sent for free from a friend, the value of the stuff is lower than the shipping cost already paid to TNT who took the package in China and until it arrived in Thailand had no idea there was a need for a license, very unprofessional. 

 

Are they making fun of me? Is there any way I can complain to get this out of custom? It was sent under category cosmetic, but is really is food replacement to cleanse your system. I suggested helping grease the system but did not seem to work better?

 

Oz.

[Sheryl]

This happens when things are sent by courier. They are technically correct in that all pharmaceuticals (including nutritional supplements) require an import license, which no one but a licensed pharmacy or pharm company can obtain. However in practice customs will usually let in very small amounts for persoanl use.

 

If you go by yourself to customs you will likely be able to clear it through.  Trying through the courier will likely be impossible.

 

If it is worth the hassle to you, tell TNT you will clear it yourself and get the customs reference from them, then go yourself.

 

And in future do not have things sent by courier. Just regular mail.