USPS Packaging Instruction 1A

Toy Propellant Devices

The proper shipping name for a mailable toy propellant device is “model rocket motor” or “igniter.” A device that is assigned identification number NA0323 or UN0454 and classed as a Division 1.4S explosive is eligible for mailing in domestic mail via surface transportation only, provided that all requirements are met and the device is properly packaged as follows.

Proper Shipping Name and ID Number

• Model Rocket Motors, NA0323.
• Igniters, UN0454.

Required Authorization

Prior written permission must be obtained from:

DIRECTOR, Product Classification
USPS Headquarters
475 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Room 4446
Washington, DC 20260

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted only via surface transportation with prior approval. Each device must meet the specifications in 341.21(a).

Design Specifications

Mailable devices must meet each of the following conditions:

• Each device must be ignitable by electrical means only.
• Each device must contain no more than 30g (1.07 ounces) of propellant.
• Each device must produce less than 80 newton seconds of total impulse with thrust duration not less than 0.050 second.
• Each device must be constructed so that all chemical ingredients are preloaded into a cylindrical paper or similarly constructed nonmetallic tube that does not fragment into sharp, hard pieces.
• Each device must be designed so that it will not burst under normal conditions.
• Each device must be incapable of spontaneous ignition under 500° F.
• Each device must not contain any type of explosive or pyrotechnic warhead other than a small, activation–charge, parachute–recovery system.

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle

• Each device must be packed in a securely sealed primary receptacle.
• Multiple primary receptacles are permitted within a single mailpiece.
• Each primary receptacle must be surrounded by sufficient cushioning material to absorb shock and prevent breakage.

Outer Packaging

• A strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle(s) and cushioning material is required. Refer to 339.4.
• Each mailpiece must not exceed a total weight of 25 pounds.

Marking

Labels and markings must be placed on the address side of the mailpiece unless specified differently in 221.1 and 325.1.

• Each outer packaging must be clearly marked on the address side with “Toy Propellant Devices,” followed by the applicable proper shipping name and UN or NA number. The markings “Surface Only” or “Surface Mail Only” and “Handle With Care” must also appear on the address side of the mailpiece. A DOT hazardous materials warning label must not be affixed.
• A complete return and delivery address must be used.

Documentation

• A properly completed Shipper‘s Declaration for Dangerous Goods must be prepared in triplicate and affixed to the outside of the mailpiece.

Note: Full responsibility rests with the mailer to comply with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE) regulations before mailing. At the time of mailing, the mailer must present to the Postal Service acceptance clerk a legible photocopy of the Product Classification director’s approval letter.