Can you mail antifreeze

In the United States, the shipping of antifreeze is regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The regulations vary depending on the type of antifreeze, its concentration, and the mode of transportation.

Here are some general guidelines:

  1. DOT regulations: Antifreeze is classified as a hazardous material (HM) and is subject to the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (HMTA). The DOT has specific regulations for shipping antifreeze, including requirements for packaging, labeling, and documentation.
  2. EPA regulations: The EPA regulates the use and disposal of antifreeze under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The EPA also sets standards for the concentration of ethylene glycol, a common ingredient in antifreeze, in drinking water.
  3. Shipping restrictions: Antifreeze can be shipped by ground, air, or sea, but there are restrictions on the type of antifreeze and its concentration. For example:
    • Concentrated antifreeze (more than 50% ethylene glycol) is not allowed to be shipped by air or sea.
    • Antifreeze with a concentration of 50% or less ethylene glycol can be shipped by ground, but it must be packaged in leak-proof containers and labeled as a hazardous material.
  4. Special permits: If you need to ship antifreeze in large quantities or by air or sea, you may need to obtain a special permit from the DOT or EPA.

To mail antifreeze, you'll need to follow these steps:

  1. Check the type and concentration of antifreeze you're shipping to ensure it complies with DOT and EPA regulations.
  2. Package the antifreeze in leak-proof containers and label it as a hazardous material.
  3. Complete the necessary shipping documentation, including a hazardous materials shipping paper (HMR) and a commercial invoice.
  4. Choose a shipping carrier that is authorized to transport hazardous materials.
  5. Pay any applicable fees, including a hazardous materials fee.

It's important to note that shipping antifreeze can be complex and requires careful planning and compliance with regulations. If you're unsure about the regulations or need help with shipping antifreeze, it's recommended that you consult with a shipping expert or a regulatory agency.