| Publication 52 - Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail > 4 Restricted Matter > 42 Intoxicating Liquors > 422 Mailability There are no Postal Service requirements to denature the contents (i.e., to change the nature or natural qualities) of intoxicating liquor. However, if denaturing agents are used, such as sodium bisulfate (a corrosive) or mercuric chloride (a poison), the substances must meet the mailability requirements for Class 8 corrosive material or a Division 6.1 toxic substance, as appropriate (refer to Chapter 6). For flammable or combustible contents, the materials must meet the requirements for a Class 3 flammable or combustible liquid. A product containing intoxicating liquor is determined to be mailable if it: - Complies with applicable IRS and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regulations.
- Is not classified as a taxable alcoholic beverage.
- Is not poisonous.
- Is not flammable.
Examples of these mailable products include cold remedies, cooking wine, and mouthwash. Intoxicating liquor is exempt from the prohibition and may be mailed between federal or state agency employees for official use (e.g., for testing purposes). This exemption aims to prevent liquor from being transported to restricted jurisdictions for consumption and to ensure that all proper tax revenues are paid.
| |
