USPS Packaging Instruction 8B

Nonspillable Wet Battery

A nonspillable wet battery containing liquid electrolyte is prohibited from mailing unless the battery casing is completely sealed to prevent the liquid corrosive from spilling during handling, as allowed in 348. Nonspillable batteries with UN2800 are prohibited in international mail, but they may be sent as domestic mail via air or surface transportation when properly packaged. Nonspillable wet batteries mailed in accordance with these instructions must meet all applicable conditions in 49 CFR 173.159a.

Proper Shipping Name

• Nonspillable Battery.

ID Number

• UN2800.

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted via air or surface transportation when packaging requirements are met.

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle

• The nonspillable battery must be capable of withstanding the vibration and pressure differential tests cited in 49 CFR 173.159(f) (1) and (2).

Absorbent and Cushioning Material

• The nonspillable battery must be protected from short circuits with protective or cushioning material.
• A noncombustible material that is capable of absorbing all liquid in case of leakage must surround the primary receptacle.

Outer Packaging

• The nonspillable battery must be securely packaged in a strong fiberboard box.
• Only one nonspillable battery is allowed per mailpiece.
• The total weight of a single mailpiece cannot exceed 25 pounds.

Marking

• The outer packaging must be plainly and durably marked on the address with the text “NONSPILLABLE BATTERY, UN2800.”
• Each mailpiece must include the mailer and addressee names and have a complete delivery and return address.

Note: A shipper‘s declaration for dangerous goods is not required for nonspillable wet batteries sent via air transportation as exempted in 49 CFR 173.159a.