Can lithium ion batteries be mailed usps
According to the United States Postal Service (USPS) guidelines, lithium-ion batteries can be mailed, but with certain restrictions and precautions. Here are the key points to consider:
- Prohibited items: USPS prohibits shipping lithium-ion batteries that are:
- Damaged or defective
- Contain a non-replaceable lithium battery (e.g., those used in hearing aids or pacemakers)
- Contain a lithium battery that is not properly protected against accidental activation
- Permitted items: USPS allows shipping lithium-ion batteries that:
- Are properly packaged and protected against accidental activation
- Are in a protective case or pouch
- Are not damaged or defective
- Are shipped in accordance with USPS regulations and guidelines
- Packaging requirements: To ensure safe shipping, lithium-ion batteries must be packaged in a way that prevents accidental activation and minimizes the risk of fire or explosion. This includes:
- Placing the battery in a protective case or pouch
- Wrapping the battery in a protective material (e.g., bubble wrap, foam)
- Securing the battery with tape or a secure closure
- Labeling requirements: When shipping lithium-ion batteries, you must affix the following labels:
- A "Lithium Battery" label on the outside of the package
- A "Handle with Care" label on the outside of the package
- Shipping restrictions: USPS has specific shipping restrictions for lithium-ion batteries, including:
- They cannot be shipped by air (e.g., Priority Mail Express, First Class Mail International)
- They can only be shipped by ground (e.g., Priority Mail, Parcel Post)
- They must be shipped to a domestic address (not international)
- Additional requirements: Some states and local jurisdictions may have additional regulations or restrictions on shipping lithium-ion batteries. Be sure to check with your local authorities before shipping.
To ensure compliance with USPS regulations, it's recommended that you:
- Check the USPS website for the most up-to-date information on shipping lithium-ion batteries
- Consult with a USPS representative or a shipping expert if you're unsure about any aspect of shipping lithium-ion batteries
- Follow all packaging, labeling, and shipping requirements carefully to avoid any issues or delays
Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when shipping lithium-ion batteries. If you're unsure about any aspect of shipping, it's best to consult with a USPS representative or a shipping expert to ensure compliance with regulations and minimize the risk of any issues or delays.