USPS Packaging Instruction 2F

Biological Products or Medical Preparations

A product or preparation in a nonrefillable metal primary receptacle charged with a nonflammable solution containing biological products or a medical preparation that could deteriorate by heat may be accepted in the domestic mail via surface transportation only provided that the item qualifies as an ORM–D material and all applicable requirements in 342 are met.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

• International Mail: Prohibited.
• Domestic Mail: Permitted only via surface transportation sent as Standard Mail or Parcel Post.

Packaging Requirements

Primary Receptacle

• Capacity of the primary receptacle must be 19.3 fluid ounces (35 cubic inches) or less, pressure in the primary receptacle must be 140 psig or less at 130° F, and the liquid content of product and gas must not completely fill the container at 130° F.
• If heated until the pressure in the primary receptacle is equivalent to equilibrium pressure of content at 130° F, the primary receptacle must be able to withstand leakage, distortion, or other damage or defects.
• Only one primary receptacle is permitted per mailpiece.

Cushioning Material

• The primary receptacle must be surrounded by sufficient cushioning material to absorb shock and prevent breakage.

Outer Packaging

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle and cushioning is required.
• Multiple primary receptacles are not permitted.

Marking

• 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 an approved DOT limited quantity square-on-point marking, designating surface transportation, prepared under 342.4c, instead of an ORM-D marking.
• A complete return address and delivery address must be used.