USPS Packaging Instruction 3C

Cigarette Lighters

A cigarette lighter equipped with an ignition element and containing fuel is classified as a Class 3 flammable liquid. A cigarette lighter containing a flammable gas is classed as a Division 2.1 flammable gas. A cigarette lighter that contains either flammable liquid or flammable gas is permitted in domestic mail via surface transportation only with prior written approval, provided all applicable requirements of 343.25 are met.

Proper Shipping Name and ID Number

• Lighters or Lighter Refills, UN1057.

Required Authorization

• The design of the lighter and its packaging must be approved by the DOT Associate Administrator for Hazardous Material Safety, per 49 CFR 173.21(i) and 173.308, and a DOT Approval Number (T–Number) must have been issued. Prior to mailing, the mailer must request and obtain written approval from the PCSC manager. (See 343.25 and DMM 601.10.13.4.)

Mailability

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

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle

• The design of the lighter must be approved by DOT (see “Required Authorization” above).

Cushioning Material

• Sufficient cushioning material must be used to absorb shock and protect the lighter from breakage.

Outer Packaging

• The packaging must be designed to protect the lighter's sparking mechanism from accidental ignition caused by friction or external pressure during transport.
• The outer packaging must be of sufficient strength to prevent the inner contents from breaking or bursting through.

Marking

• The address side of each mailpiece must be clearly marked with “Surface Only” or “Surface Mail Only” and “Lighters” or “Lighter Refills” followed by the T–Number.
• A complete return address and delivery address must be used.

Note: A legible photocopy of the PCSC manager's approval letter must accompany the mailing at the time of deposit.