Restricted Items on TikTok Shop: What Documents Are Needed?

Mastering TikTok Shop’s Restricted Categories: Whether it’s beauty essentials, gadgets, or pet supplies, listing regulated items demands precision and accurate paperwork. Discover the required certifications, authorizations, and compliance steps to streamline your listings effortlessly!

Overview of TikTok Shop’s Restricted Category Documentation #

According to TikTok Shop's policy, restricted products—also referred to as hazardous materials (Hazmat), regulated goods, or prohibited items—are products requiring special documentation or authorization before listing. 

These products are subject to strict regulations due to potential health, safety, or property risks during shipping, storage, and handling. Examples include electronics with lithium batteries, beauty products with flammable ingredients, pet food, automotive parts, etc. 

Beginning October 7, 2024, all new TikTok Shop US listings classified as hazardous materials (Hazmat) must include detailed mandatory attributes covering classification, labeling, storage, fulfillment, and transportation. Listings that lack these attributes will be blocked, and the seller’s Listing Seller Rating (LSR) will be negatively impacted.

To comply with TikTok Shop's guidelines and legal standards, sellers must provide appropriate certifications, safety documentation, packaging photos, testing reports, and detailed product information.

⚠️ Sellers must upload these documents in the Product Certification section on the product page and complete all Product Attributes marked with a red asterisk. Specific requirements differ based on the category and product type—let’s explore them in detail below.

Documentation Rules for TikTok Shop’s Restricted Categories #

Jewelry, Watches, and Accessories #

To list jewelry, watches, or accessories featuring precious metals or gemstones—such as gold, silver, diamonds, or rubies—sellers are required to undergo TikTok Shop's pre-approval process or obtain specific category authorization.

Required Certifications for Each Product:

Despite obtaining category approval, sellers are required to provide detailed, item-specific paperwork, such as:

• Proof of authenticity, including Jewelry Identification Certificates.
• Laboratory test results or other verification reports.
• High-resolution images of the product and its packaging are captured from all angles, clearly displaying the product name and place of origin and ensuring consistency with accompanying documentation.

Gold Jewelry:

• A testing report from a U.S.-certified laboratory (e.g., API, SGS, TUV) dated within the past 12 months.
• The document must be clear, unmodified, and aligned with the product details and images provided.
• A Certificate or Letter of Authenticity confirming the gold's purity.

Diamonds:

• A Natural Diamond Certificate issued by AGS or GIA, or a Lab-Created Diamond Certificate from IGI or GIA.
• The certificate must specify the carat size for lab-grown diamonds and align perfectly with the product's details and images.

Example:

Photo taken from sgl-labs.com

Rubies, Sapphires, and Emeralds:

• A Precious Gemstone Certificate issued by AGS, GIA, AIG, or IGI.
• The certificate must be clear, unmodified, and accurately reflect the product's details.

Ensure all documentation aligns with TikTok Shop's requirements for a smooth listing process.

Beauty, Cosmetics, and Personal Care Products #

TikTok Shop sellers can now list beauty, cosmetics, and personal care products without authorization; however, they must adhere to stringent category guidelines. This covers skincare products, lotions, makeup, and any products intended for cleansing, improving, or altering one’s appearance.

Requirements for All Products

• Precise Descriptions: Ensure product photos and descriptions are clear and accurately labeled.
• Unopened Packaging: Products must be in their original, sealed packaging, accompanied by all necessary documentation.
• Mandatory Packaging Labels: Labels must feature a detailed ingredient list, applicable warnings, and clear usage instructions.

Medicinal Beauty Products

• Medicinal Claims Compliance: Products making medicinal claims, such as acne treatments or dandruff shampoos, must satisfy extra criteria.
• FDA Registration: Provide proof of FDA registration, if required.
• Drug Facts Label: Ensure the packaging includes a clear and accurate Drug Facts label.

Prohibited Items

Prohibited Listings for Sellers:

• Items that require medical supervision.
• Products making medical claims without FDA approval.
• Cosmetics that fail to meet U.S. retail standards, such as testers or unauthorized imports.
• Goods are flagged under FDA recalls or safety warnings.
• Products containing ingredients are banned by the FDA.

Drug Labeling Requirements

• Active Ingredients: Specify active components along with their dosages.
• Intended Use: Outline the product's purpose and recommended applications.
• Safety Information: Include warnings, potential side effects, and guidance on when to seek medical advice.
• Usage Directions: Provide precise dosage instructions and list inactive ingredients.
• Allergen Details: Highlight information to help users avoid potential allergens.

FDA Compliance

• Sellers must provide proof of FDA pre-market approval or the relevant FDA monograph.

Example:

Consumer Medical Devices #

Without prior approval, sellers can list FDA-regulated consumer medical devices, such as dental floss, toothbrushes, water flossers, and teeth whitening tools. However, they must adhere to strict regulations and provide the necessary documentation to ensure compliance.

Essential Documentation Overview
To list regulated devices, sellers must provide key documents, including the manufacturer's establishment registration (FURLS account).

Specific Requirements for Hair Removal Devices
This category demands prior authorization and additional paperwork, such as:

• FURLS Registration.
• 510(k) Pre-Market Notification or evidence of exemption from the FDA Product Classification database.
• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) Certification.
• Testing reports from an ASCA-certified laboratory.

Electronics #

This category includes commercial appliances, beauty devices, power tools, household electronics, Wi-Fi-enabled devices, and Bluetooth products like wireless earphones.

Documentation and Image Requirements

Sellers must:

• Provide clear product and packaging images showing all safety markings and product details.
• Submit the following documents:

US Certificate of Conformity (COC)

• Issued by an OSHA-accredited Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).
• Accepted formats: Embossed or sticker safety marking on the product. Safety marking is printed on the packaging (stickers are not accepted).

Declaration of Conformity

• Issued by the manufacturer or authorized representative.
• Confirms compliance with US electrical safety standards.

Pet Food #

Sellers are allowed to list pet food on TikTok Shop without needing prior authorization; however, compliance with the category's specific guidelines is mandatory. To gain listing approval, all products must adhere to the outlined documentation standards.

Required Documentation

• Pet Food Nutritional Label
• Clear Images of the product’s packaging and labeling, showing:
  • Product name;
  • Net quantity statement;
  • Manufacturer's name and address;
  • Ingredient list;
  • Guaranteed Analysis;
  • Nutritional adequacy statement;
  • Feeding directions;
  • Calorie Statement;

Children's Products #

The category includes children’s and baby products, including toys, strollers, clothing, car seats, care items, and feeding accessories. Products are defined as items intended for children 12 years old or younger.

Compliance Requirements

Sellers are responsible for adhering to all laws and regulations, including the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). Approval requires submitting specific documentation.

Required Documentation

• Product Testing Reports or Certifications: Issued by a CPSC-accredited lab unless exempt.
• Children’s Product Certificate: A written certification confirming compliance with all regulations.
• Images of Product Packaging: Permanent tracking information (if applicable). Safety warnings and age rating.

Pre-Packaged & Packaged Foods #

Packaged food and beverages include any edible or drinkable items securely bottled, canned, cartoned, or wrapped. Items in non-durable containers (e.g., carry-out boxes) are prohibited.

Documentation Requirements

All products must comply with FDA packaging and labeling regulations. Product images must include:

• Product Name;
• Ingredient List;
• Allergen Declaration;
• Nutrition Facts Label;
• Manufacturer/Distributor Name and Address;
• Net Content Quantity and Weight;
• Country of Origin.

Products with CO₂ Cylinders #

Selling soda makers with CO₂ cylinders on TikTok Shop? Here's what you need to know:

• Get Certified: Secure DOT authorization from the U.S. Department of Transportation for shipping CO₂ cylinders.
• Plan Logistics: Use approved 3PL or 4PL providers, as TikTok (FBT) won’t manage shipping or returns for these items.
• Ensure Safety: Submit safety certifications from a CPSC-accredited lab.

Sellers are solely responsible for complying with all legal and regulatory requirements to list CO₂ cylinder products successfully.

Conclusion #

Restricted products, including Hazmat and regulated goods, require proper documentation and adherence to TikTok Shop’s strict policies to ensure safe and compliant listings. Accurate certifications and product details help sellers avoid violations and successfully list their items.

ℹ️ If you have questions or need additional guidance during your setup and migration, please contact our support team for help.