Understanding recent USPS changes to hazmat shipments
In a time when online shopping is booming and the demand for shipping services is at an all-time high, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of goods has never been more critical. So, if you’re thinking about using the post office to ship your hazardous materials, you may want to make note of some recent changes the United States Postal Service (USPS) has made to Publication 52. The recent changes became effective January 27, 2025, and are designed to enhance safety protocols and streamline the mailing process for businesses and individuals alike.
Publication 52 contains the comprehensive regulations issued by the USPS that outline the requirements and guidelines for mailing hazardous, restricted, and perishable items. Its primary purpose is to ensure the safety of postal employees, recipients, and the public by providing detailed instructions on the proper packaging, labeling, and handling of potentially dangerous goods. By following the standards in Publication 52, mailers can help prevent accidents and ensure that their shipments are transported safely and efficiently through the postal system.
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Summary of changes
The most notable changes to Publication 52 include the following:
New section 131: outer packaging requirements
The USPS has introduced specific outer packaging requirements for hazardous materials and dangerous goods. Packages must now meet a minimum edge crush test requirement of at least:
- 32 or 200 lbs. burst test strength for packages weighing 20 pounds or less, and
- 44 edge crush test or 275 lbs. burst test strength for packages weighing more than 20 pounds.
This ensures that packages are robust enough to withstand the rigors of transit.
Removal of quantity restrictions for nonregulated toxic materials
The previous quantity restrictions for nonregulated toxic materials have been removed. This change is intended to streamline the mailing process while maintaining safety standards. Mailers can now send larger quantities of these materials without additional regulatory hurdles.
Lithium battery marking requirements
Following the trend of other regulatory agencies, such as the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and International Civil Aviation Organization, the USPS has decided to remove the telephone number requirement from the lithium battery mark. This adjustment simplifies the labeling process for mailers, making it easier to comply with shipping regulations for electronic devices.
Prohibition of metallic mercury
The USPS continues to prohibit the mailing of metallic mercury and devices containing metallic mercury, such as antique thermometers and barometers. This measure is crucial for preventing hazardous incidents in the mail stream. The prohibition underscores the USPS's commitment to safety and environmental protection.
Impact on mailers
These changes are designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of mailing hazardous materials or dangerous goods. By requiring more robust packaging, the USPS intends to reduce the risk of accidents during the transportation process. The removal of certain restrictions and requirements simplifies the mailing process for businesses and individuals, making it easier to comply with regulations. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses and eCommerce sellers who frequently ship a variety of goods.
Key to remember: The recent updates to Publication 52 reflect the USPS's commitment to safety and efficiency in handling hazardous, restricted, and perishable mail. These changes, which became effective January 27, 2025, address the growing volume of hazmat shipments and the associated risks, ensuring that the postal system remains a safe and reliable means of transporting goods.