USPS Packaging Instruction 6A

Toxic Substances

A Division 6.1 toxic substance that qualifies as a Limited Quantity material within the Postal Service 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

The following labels and text markings must be placed on the address side of the mailpiece unless specified in 221.1 and 325.1.

• For air transportation, mailpieces must bear the DOT Limited Quantity air mark (with the symbol “Y” in the center), an approved DOT Class 9 hazardous material warning label, Identification Number “ID8000,” and the proper shipping name “Consumer Commodity.”
• For surface transportation, the outer packaging must bear an approved DOT Limited Quantity surface mark designating surface transportation, prepared under 342.4c.
• A complete return 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.