USPS Packaging Instruction 6A

Toxic Substances

A Division 6.1 toxic substance that qualifies as a consumer commodity or ORM-D material is permitted in the domestic mail via air or surface transportation when all applicable requirements in 346 are met.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted via air transportation or surface transportation.

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle

• The primary container must be of sufficient strength and have a secure method of closure.
• The capacity of the primary receptacle(s) per mailpiece must not exceed 8 ounces.

Absorbent and Cushioning Material

• Enough absorbent and cushioning material must surround the primary receptacle to prevent breakage and absorb all potential leakage.

Outer Shipping Container

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle and cushioning material is required.
• The inner receptacle and cushioning material must fit snugly within the outer packaging.

Marking

• For air transportation, packages 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, each mailpiece may bear an approved DOT limited quantity square-on-point marking, designating surface transportation, prepared under 346.31c, instead of an ORM-D marking.
• A complete return address and delivery address must be used.

Documentation

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