Search

USPS Offers Exception for Shipping Hand Sanitizer

Posted on 4/14/2020 by Roger Marks

The US Postal Service has created a process for shippers/mailers to request a “special exception” to the Publication 52 requirements for shipping hand sanitizers by ground or, in limited cases, domestic air.  

From USPS:

To better support our customers during this period of increased demand, mailers can obtain special exception through the Manager, Product Classification to increase the quantity of these items containing ethyl and isopropanol alcohol sent via surface transportation.

Additionally, mailers can also be granted special authorization by the Manager, Product Classification to ship limited quantities of ethanol alcohol in domestic air transportation.

If a mailer holds a valid authorization or exception form the Manager, Product Classification, the following criteria must be met upon acceptance of the items:
  • The mailer must produce a copy of the USPS letter containing the applicable mailing requirements with Manager, Product Classification, signature, upon the first mailing of these items at each postal facility. Note: It is suggested that the facility maintains copies of such letters on file for future reference.

  • The outer package must have the appropriate text marking “Contains xxx” followed by their assigned unique authorization number that will begin with either HSA, HSB, HSD or HSE. Note: This information is included in the letter and may be hand or type written prominently on the package. Examples of text markings:
“Contains Air-Eligible Ethyl Alcohol - Authorization No. HSA - xxxxxx”
“Contains Air-Eligible Ethyl Alcohol - Authorization No. HSB - xxxxxx”
“Contains Surface Eligible Ethyl Alcohol - Exception No. HSE - xxxxxx”
“Contains Surface Eligible Isopropyl Alcohol - Exception No. HSD - xxxxxx”

Please note that these materials are strictly prohibited in international mail international, Army Post Office (APO), Fleet Post Office (FPO) and Diplomatic Post Office (DPO)” destinations.

For additional information, refer to Publication 52 Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail, Section 343 and Appendix C - 3A or 3D for the appropriate Packaging Instruction.

If you have questions, please contact the Pricing & Classification Service Center (PCSC) at pscs@usps.gov or Product Classification at productclassification@usps.gov 

Read more from USPS here. 

Tags: coronavirus, covid19, hazmat shipping, USPS

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

I had a positive experience utilizing this educational program. It was very informative, convenient, and rewarding from a career perspective.

John Gratacos

Logistics Manager

The instructor was energetic and made learning fun compared to dry instructors from other training providers.

Andy D’Amato

International Trade Compliance Manager

Lion does a great job summarizing and communicating complicated EH&S-related regulations.

Michele Irmen

Sr. Environmental Engineer

No comparison. Lion has the best RCRA training ever!!

Matt Sabine

Environmental Specialist

I used the IT support number available and my issue was resolved within a few minutes. I don't see anything that could have made it better.

Danny Province

EHS Professional

The instructor created a great learning environment.

Avinash Thummadi

CAD & Environmental Manager

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Just starting out with shipping lithium batteries? The four fundamental concepts in this guide are the place to start.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.