Can you ship glue in the mail
The age-old question: can I ship glue in the mail?
The answer is a bit complicated. It depends on the type of glue, the quantity, and the shipping carrier you're using. Here's a breakdown:
General Guidelines:
- The United States Postal Service (USPS) allows shipping of adhesives, including glue, as long as they are properly packaged and declared on the shipping label.
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have specific regulations for shipping hazardous materials, including adhesives.
- The shipping carrier (e.g., USPS, UPS, FedEx) may have their own guidelines and restrictions for shipping adhesives.
Types of Glue:
- Non-hazardous glues: Most common types of glue, such as white glue, hot glue, and epoxy, are generally considered non-hazardous and can be shipped via USPS or other carriers.
- Hazardous glues: Some glues, like cyanoacrylate (CA) glue, super glue, or adhesives containing solvents, are considered hazardous materials and may require special handling and packaging for shipping.
Shipping Requirements:
- Proper packaging: Glue must be packaged in a leak-proof, puncture-resistant container to prevent spills or leaks during transit.
- Labeling: The shipping label must clearly indicate that the package contains adhesives or hazardous materials.
- Declaration: The shipper must declare the contents of the package and comply with any relevant regulations, such as those related to hazardous materials.
Carrier-Specific Restrictions:
- USPS: USPS has specific guidelines for shipping adhesives, including requirements for packaging and labeling.
- UPS: UPS has a list of prohibited items, including certain types of adhesives, which may not be shipped via their services.
- FedEx: FedEx has specific guidelines for shipping hazardous materials, including adhesives, and may require special packaging and documentation.
Conclusion:
In summary, it is possible to ship glue in the mail, but it's essential to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the shipping carrier, USPS, and relevant authorities. Make sure to properly package and declare the contents of the package, and check with the carrier for any specific restrictions or requirements.