Domestic Shipping Prohibitions, Restrictions, & HAZMAT

When you mail a letter or send a package, you must follow U.S. and USPS® guidelines. Learn what things you can and can’t send in the U.S. mail:

  • Some items are prohibited (completely forbidden).
  • Some are restricted (allowed under certain conditions).
  • Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) might be prohibited or restricted.

Shipping Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

Hazardous materials are substances that could injure people or cause damage if not handled properly, like chemicals or flammable items.

 

HAZMAT also includes lithium batteries (like the ones in cell phones and electronics; they contain a lot of energy and can be a fire risk) and liquid mercury:

  • Some HAZMAT is prohibited—you can’t send it through USPS and must use another carrier.
  • Other HAZMAT is restricted—you can mail it if you follow all the rules.
  • Some HAZMAT can only be sent by ground transportation—it can’t go on airplanes.
  • If you are mailing packages that contain hazardous materials (HAZMAT), you must separate HAZMAT packages from all other packages and present them in a container marked “HAZMAT.”

If you knowingly mail materials that are dangerous or injurious to life, health, or property, for each violation, you face a civil penalty of at least $250 (but not more than $100,000), the costs of any cleanup, and damages. You may also face criminal penalties.

Domestically Prohibited Items

You can’t send these items in the U.S. mail:

  • Air Bags
  • Ammunition
  • Explosives
  • Gasoline
  • Liquid Mercury