USPS Packaging Instruction 2F

Biological Products or Medical Preparations

A product or preparation in a nonrefillable metal primary receptacle charged with a nonflammable solution containing biological products or a medical preparation that could deteriorate by heat may be accepted in the domestic mail via surface transportation only provided that the item qualifies as a consumer commodity or ORM-D material, and all applicable requirements in 342 are met.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted only via surface transportation.

Packaging Requirements

Primary Receptacle

• Capacity of the primary receptacle must be 19.3 fluid ounces (35 cubic inches) or less, pressure in the primary receptacle must be 140 psig or less at 130° F, and the liquid content of product and gas must not completely fill the container at 130° F.
• If heated until the pressure in the primary receptacle is equivalent to equilibrium pressure of content at 130° F, the primary receptacle must be able to withstand leakage, distortion, or other damage or defects.
• Only one primary receptacle is permitted per mailpiece.

Cushioning Material

• The primary receptacle must be surrounded by sufficient cushioning material to absorb shock and prevent breakage.

Outer Packaging

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle and cushioning is required.
• Multiple primary receptacles are not permitted.

Marking

• Each mailpiece must be clearly marked on the address side with “Surface Only” or “Surface Mail Only” and “Consumer Commodity ORM–D.”
• Optionally, each mailpiece 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.