| Publication 52 - Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail > 5 Perishable Matter > 52 Animals > 522 Packaging and Markings Containers used to mail perishable matter must be constructed to protect and securely contain the contents. Shipping containers for mailable live animals must, at a minimum, be made of 275-pound test, double-wall, corrugated, weather-resistant fiberboard (W5c) or equivalent. USPS-produced packaging, including Flat Rate containers, is not eligible for use. Additional container requirements apply to mailable adult birds (refer to 526.4). Containers must be constructed to prevent animal escape, withstand normal handling without crushing, and provide adequate ventilation for the animals at all times. Each mailpiece must display a complete return address and be marked on the address side with a description of the contents (e.g., "Live Animals," "Live Honeybees"). Mailpieces marked with "If Undeliverable, Abandon" are not eligible for mailing.
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