Anyone in the cannabis business knows that laws around this industry can be complex. Regulations are strict enough when you’re selling locally, but what happens if you want to expand your reach nationally? Then you’re dealing with your own state laws, as well as federal regulations and the rules of every state you plan to enter.
Don’t let rules and regulations stop you from growing your business, though. Here’s an introduction to shipping cannabis products across state lines in the US and the best practices that’ll help you navigate this tricky landscape.
Know Your State-to-State Regulations
Before you ship anything, study the cannabis laws in both your home state and your destination state. Some states have reciprocity agreements that make interstate commerce easier, but others don’t.
For example, California and Nevada have agreements that allow certain cannabis products to cross their shared border. But shipping from California to Texas? That’s a completely different story since Texas has much stricter cannabis laws.
Always check if the destination state allows the specific type of cannabis product you’re planning to ship. CBD products might be legal, but THC products could land you in serious legal trouble.
Use Licensed Transportation Services
Never attempt to ship cannabis products through standard postal services or general freight companies. The USPS is a federal service, and cannabis remains federally illegal, so this could result in federal charges.
Instead, work with licensed cannabis transportation companies that specialize in moving these products legally. These companies understand the regulations and have the proper permits to transport cannabis across approved state lines.
Many states require specific licensing for cannabis transportation companies, so verify that your chosen service has all necessary credentials before you hand over your products.
Package Products Properly
Shipping cannabis across the US requires special attention to packaging. Your products need to arrive in perfect condition, which means proper protection and temperature control for items like edibles or concentrates.
You’ll want to have adequate load securement on your shipment so your products don’t shift during transport and get damaged. Use proper cushioning, climate-controlled containers when needed, and tamper-evident packaging.
You should also label your shipment clearly with strain names, THC/CBD content, and batch numbers. Many states require specific labeling standards, so double-check these requirements before your products leave the facility.
Track Everything
Documentation is your best friend in cannabis shipping. Keep detailed records of every product you ship, including quantities, destinations, and tracking information.
Most states require seed-to-sale tracking systems that monitor cannabis products throughout their entire lifecycle. Make sure your shipping process integrates with these tracking requirements.
Having detailed records also protects you if any issues arise during transport. You can quickly reference what was shipped, when it left, and where it should be.
Work with Compliance Experts
Cannabis law changes frequently, and what’s legal today might not be tomorrow. Consider working with legal experts who specialize in cannabis compliance to review your shipping procedures regularly.
These professionals can help you stay current with changing regulations and avoid costly mistakes. They can also help you expand into new markets by identifying states where your products would be legally welcome.
Ready to Expand Your Cannabis Business?
Yes, there are laws you’ll have to follow if you want to ship cannabis goods outside of your jurisdiction, but don’t let that stop you from spreading your amazing products to everyone who might want them. This guide covers the basics so you can start dipping your toes into what it’ll take to expand your business across state lines.
