USPS Packaging Instructions 10C

Cremated Remains

Human and animal ashes are permitted for mailing with restrictions, provided they are properly double-packaged and labeled. For international shipping, cremated remains are permitted to be mailed provided they are not otherwise prohibited by the destination country (see the Individual Country Listings in the IMM) and all packaging and marking requirements are met.

Proper Shipping Name

Not applicable.

ID Number

Not applicable.

Mailability

• International Mail: When permitted by the destination country only via Priority Mail Express International service (this class of mail must also be available to the destination country).
• Domestic Mail: Permitted via Priority Mail Express service only.

Required Packaging

Primary Container

• International: A funeral urn is required as the inner container. It must be sealed and siftproof.
• Domestic: The inner container must be strong and durable and be constructed in such a manner as to protect and securely contain the contents inside and it must be properly sealed so that it is siftproof.

Note: A siftproof container is any vessel that does not allow loose powder to leak or sift out during transit.

Cushioning Material

• For both domestic and international shipping, the space between the primary receptacle and the outer packaging must contain enough material to keep the item stable during transit and to absorb the shock to prevent breakage.

Outer Container

• For both domestic and international shipping, the outer container must be strong, durable, and siftproof. Insert your inner container into the shipping box and add padding to the bottom, sides, and top to prevent movement. Make sure there is no movement of contents within the shipping box.

Note: It is recommended that all packages contain a slip of paper with the sender’s and recipient’s address and phone number. This will provide Postal employees with a means to contact you if the outer mailing label is damaged or found missing during transit.

Marking

• Domestic: A complete return address and delivery address must be used. The Priority Mail Express mailpiece (USPS-produced or customer supplied) must be marked with Label 139, Cremated Remains, affixed to all sides (including top and bottom), or a mailer may use the special Priority Mail Express cremated remains branded box (BOX-CRE) available on usps.com.
• International: A complete return address and delivery address must be used. The mailer must indicate the contents (Cremated Remains) on the required applicable customs declaration form. The Priority Mail Express International mailpiece (USPS-produced or customer supplied) must be marked with Label 139, Cremated Remains, affixed to all sides (including top and bottom), or a mailer may use the special Priority Mail Express cremated remains branded box (BOX-CRE) available on usps.com.

Documentation

• International: A complete and accurate customs label is required and must indicate the contents of the package. If available, the cremation certificate should be attached to the outer packaging, or made easily accessible. The sender is responsible for obtaining all the necessary permissions required by the national laws in the country of origin and the country of destination prior to dispatching these items.