USPS Packaging Instruction 6A

Toxic Substances

A Division 6.1 toxic substance that qualifies as an ORM–D material is permitted in the domestic mail via air or surface transportation when all applicable requirements in 346 are met.

Proper Shipping Name

• Consumer Commodity.

ID Number

• Various (see Appendix A).

Mailability

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

Required Packaging

Primary Receptacle

• The primary container must be of sufficient strength and have a secure method of closure.
• The capacity of the primary receptacle(s) per mailpiece must not exceed 8 ounces.

Absorbent and Cushioning Material

• Enough absorbent and cushioning material must surround the primary receptacle to prevent breakage and absorb all potential leakage.

Outer Shipping Container

• Strong outer packaging that is capable of firmly and securely holding the primary receptacle and cushioning material is required.
• The inner receptacle and cushioning material must fit snugly within the outer packaging.

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 346.31b, 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 material must have a properly completed shipper's declaration for dangerous goods that is prepared in triplicate and affixed to the outside of the mailpiece.