Can you mail something with a battery in it

The answer is a bit complicated. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has specific guidelines for shipping items with batteries, and it depends on the type of battery, its size, and the destination.

General Guidelines:

  1. Lithium batteries: These are the most common type of battery and are subject to special handling and packaging requirements. The USPS has specific guidelines for shipping lithium batteries, including:
    • They must be protected from accidental activation or short-circuiting.
    • They must be packaged in a protective case or pouch to prevent damage.
    • They must be declared on the shipping label as "Lithium Batteries" and marked with a "Fragile" sticker.
  2. Non-lithium batteries: These include alkaline, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and lead-acid batteries. These batteries are generally allowed in mail, but:
    • They must be properly packaged to prevent damage.
    • They must not be damaged or leaking.
    • They must not be shipped in large quantities or in a way that could cause a fire hazard.

Restrictions and Prohibitions:

  1. Lithium-ion batteries: These are not allowed in mail, except for certain types of devices, such as:
    • Cell phones and laptops (with proper packaging and declaration).
    • Hearing aids and other medical devices (with proper packaging and declaration).
  2. Spent or damaged batteries: These are not allowed in mail, as they can pose a fire hazard.
  3. Large quantities of batteries: Shipping large quantities of batteries, especially lithium batteries, is not allowed, as it can pose a fire hazard.

How to Ship Batteries:

  1. Properly package the item: Wrap the item securely in bubble wrap or paper to prevent damage.
  2. Use a protective case or pouch: For lithium batteries, use a protective case or pouch to prevent accidental activation or short-circuiting.
  3. Declare the batteries on the shipping label: Mark the shipping label as "Lithium Batteries" or "Batteries" and include a description of the batteries.
  4. Check with the USPS: Before shipping, check with your local post office or the USPS website to confirm their specific guidelines and restrictions.

Remember to always follow the guidelines and regulations set by the USPS and other shipping carriers to ensure safe and compliant shipping of items with batteries.