USPS Packaging Instruction 2B

Nonflammable Gases

A Class 2 nonflammable gas that can qualify as an ORM–D material may be mailed provided that all applicable requirements in 342 are met and it is properly packaged as follows.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted with restrictions via air transportation (Express Mail, Priority Mail, or First–Class Mail) and permitted via surface transportation sent as Standard Mail or Parcel Post.

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle(s)

• The capacity of an other–than–metal (nonmetal) primary receptacle must be 4 fluid ounces (7.22 cubic inches) or less per mailpiece.
• The capacity of a metal primary receptacle must be 33.8 fluid ounces (1–liter or 61.0 cubic inches) or less.
• The liquid content of the material and the gas must not completely fill the primary receptacle at 130° F.
• A DOT 2P container must be used if the internal pressure is from 140 psig to 160 psig at 130° F (55° C). A DOT 2Q container must be used if the pressure is from 161 psig to 180 psig at 130° F (55° C).
• A container with an internal pressure more than 180 psig at 130° F (55° C) is prohibited from mailing.
• The primary receptacle(s) must be packaged to protect valves and fittings and to ensure integrity during transport.
• The primary receptacle(s) must have a recessed valve, screw–thread cap, tap closure, or other means to prevent accidental discharge.

Cushioning Material

• Sufficient cushioning material must surround the primary receptacle to absorb shock and prevent damage.

Outer Packaging

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle(s) and cushioning material is required.
• Multiple primary receptacles may be securely packed within a single strong outer packaging.
• Each mailpiece must not exceed a total weight of 25 pounds.

Marking

• For air transportation, each mailpiece must be clearly marked on the address side with “Consumer Commodity ORM–D AIR.”
• 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 the appropriate DOT limited quantity square-on-point marking (including the appropriate DOT hazardous material warning label when required for air shipments), prepared under 342.4c, instead of an ORM-D or ORM-D AIR marking.
• A complete return address and delivery address must be used.

Documentation

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