What Items are Hazardous and Illegal to Pack and Ship

When packing and shipping items, there are certain materials that are considered hazardous, dangerous, or prohibited due to safety, environmental, or legal reasons. These materials should not be packed and shipped through standard mail and courier services. It’s important to follow the regulations and guidelines set by your shipping provider and comply with local, state, and federal laws. Here are some common materials that are typically not allowed for shipping:

1. Hazardous Materials: These include substances that can pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. Examples include explosives, flammable gases, flammable liquids, and toxic chemicals.
2. Aerosols: Pressurized aerosol cans may be prohibited, especially if they contain flammable or hazardous materials.
3. Weapons and Ammunition: Firearms, ammunition, and explosive devices are typically heavily regulated or prohibited from shipping without the appropriate licenses.
4. Perishable Items: Items that can quickly spoil, like certain foods or live animals, may be subject to restrictions or special handling requirements.
5. Illegal or Controlled Substances: Shipping illegal drugs or controlled substances is both illegal and against the terms of most shipping providers.
6. Biohazardous Materials: Infectious substances, biological materials, or clinical waste may have specific packaging and handling requirements.
7. Lithium Batteries: Lithium batteries have specific regulations, and certain types or quantities may not be allowed for air transport.
8. Radioactive Materials: Materials that emit ionizing radiation are generally restricted and regulated.
9. Sharp Objects: Items with sharp edges, such as knives or blades, may require special packaging and labeling.
10. Alcohol: Shipping alcoholic beverages can be subject to strict regulations, as mentioned in a previous response. You should check with your shipping provider and state laws.
11. Tobacco Products: Some tobacco products may have restrictions on shipping, and excise taxes may apply.
12. Currency and Valuables: Precious metals, cash, jewelry, and other valuables may have limitations on shipping due to security concerns.
13. Flammable Items: Items that are flammable or combustible may be restricted, such as lighter fluid, gasoline, and some chemicals.
14. Overweight or Oversized Items: Shipping providers have weight and size limits, and shipping items that exceed these limits may incur additional fees or require specialized shipping.
15. Environmental Hazards: Items that are harmful to the environment or protected wildlife may be restricted, such as certain types of wood, plants, or exotic animals.

It’s crucial to check with your chosen shipping provider for their specific guidelines and restrictions, as they may have their own policies and regulations. Additionally, you should always consult the relevant laws and regulations in your area to ensure compliance when packing and shipping specific items.

Domestically Prohibited Items

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

• Air Bags
• Ammunition
• Explosives
• Gasoline
• Liquid Mercury
• Marijuana (medical or otherwise); hemp/CBD is allowed, but restricted