USPS Packaging Instruction 2B

Nonflammable Gases

A Class 2 nonflammable gas that qualifies as a consumer commodity or ORM-D material is mailable provided that all applicable requirements in 342 are met and it is properly packaged as follows.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted with restrictions via air transportation and permitted via surface transportation.

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle(s)

• The capacity of an other–than–metal (nonmetal) primary receptacle must be 4 fluid ounces (7.22 cubic inches) or less per mailpiece.
• The capacity of a metal primary receptacle must be 33.8 fluid ounces (1–liter or 61.0 cubic inches) or less.
• The liquid content of the material and the gas must not completely fill the primary receptacle at 130° F.
• A DOT 2P container must be used if the internal pressure is from 140 psig to 160 psig at 130° F (55° C). A DOT 2Q container must be used if the pressure is from 161 psig to 180 psig at 130° F (55° C).
• A container with an internal pressure more than 180 psig at 130° F (55° C) is prohibited from mailing.
• The primary receptacle(s) must be packaged to protect valves and fittings and to ensure integrity during transport.
• The primary receptacle(s) must have a recessed valve, screw–thread cap, tap closure, or other means to prevent accidental discharge.

Cushioning Material

• Sufficient cushioning material must surround the primary receptacle to absorb shock and prevent damage.

Outer Packaging

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle(s) and cushioning material is required.
• Multiple primary receptacles may be securely packed within a single strong outer packaging.
• Each mailpiece must not exceed a total weight of 25 pounds.

Marking

• For air transportation, mailpieces must bear the DOT square-on-point marking including the symbol “Y,” an approved DOT Class 9 hazardous material warning label, Identification Number “ID8000,” and the proper shipping name “Consumer Commodity.”
• For surface transportation, each mailpiece must be clearly marked on the address side with “Surface Only” or “Surface Mail Only” and “Consumer Commodity ORM–D.”
• Optionally, the address side of the outer packaging may bear an approved DOT limited quantity square-on-point marking designating surface transportation, prepared under 342.4c, instead of an ORM-D marking.
• A complete return address and delivery address must be used.

Documentation

• For air transportation, a mailable, nonflammable gas must have a properly completed shipper‘s declaration for dangerous goods prepared in triplicate and affixed to the outside of the mailpiece.