As of January 27, 2025, the US Postal Service (USPS) has implemented stricter packaging requirements for hazardous materials (hazmat) shipments. These changes, detailed in a Final Rule revising Publication 52, are driven by increased hazmat incidents between 2020 and 2022, largely due to the e-commerce boom.
Key Updates:
- Stronger Packaging Required: Mailers must now use rigid outer packaging that meets USPS-defined strength standards for edge crush and burst tests. Fiberboard (cardboard) boxes or equivalent materials qualify.
- Lithium Battery Rule Changes:
- No more phone numbers are required on the lithium battery mark.
- Contained-in-equipment shipments can use padded or poly bags, provided the equipment is in a manufacturer’s box that passes a 1.2-meter drop test.
- Expanded Allowances for Nonregulated Toxics: Quantity restrictions for pesticides and insecticides are removed if compliant packaging is used.
The bottom line: USPS reports that previous 2023 rule changes reduced hazmat mail incidents by 20%, and these new updates aim to improve safety further.
Go deeper: For full details, see the USPS Final Rule in the January 27, 2025 Federal Register.