Consumer commodity (ORM-D)

Scope

The consumer commodity/ORM-D classification and markings are being phased out of the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMRs). They are being replaced with the new limited quantity requirements and markings. See Limited quantity markings for marking information.

Regulatory citations

• 49 CFR 171.8 — Definitions and abbreviations
• 49 CFR 172.316 — Packagings containing materials classed as ORM D

Key definitions

• Combination packaging: A combination of packaging, for transport purposes, consisting of one or more inner packagings secured in a non-bulk outer packaging. It does not include a composite packaging.
• Consumer commodity: A limited quantity of a material “that is packaged and distributed in a form intended or suitable for sale through retail sales agencies or instrumentalities for consumption by individuals for purposes of personal care or household use. This term includes drugs and medicines.”
• Limited quantity: When specified as such in a section applicable to a particular material, is the maximum amount of a hazardous material for which there is a specific labeling or packaging exception.

Summary of requirements

Materials meeting the limited quantity provisions, as well as the consumer commodity definition, may be renamed a consumer commodity and reclassified as an ORM-D. In each instance, the combination packaging must conform to the quantity and weight limits specified for limited quantities of each hazard class/division and packing group.

Packagings that contain a material classed as “ORM-D” must be marked on at least one side or end with the ORM-D designation — immediately following or below the proper shipping name.

The ORM-D marking must be within a rectangle that is approximately 6.3 mm (0.25 in) larger on each side than the designation.

Before January 1, 2021, packages of ORM-D material may be marked with the ORM-D marking.

Starting on January 1, 2021, only the appropriate square-on-point limited quantity marking may be used and the ORM-D marking must not be used. See 172.316 for more information.