USPS Issues Final Rule

With the rise in eCommerce shipping over the past decade, The United States Postal Service (USPS) previously reported a significant increase in dangerous goods incidents between 2020 to 2022. As a result of the sharp rise in dangerous goods related incidents, The USPS introduced new policies requiring mailers to separate dangerous goods shipments from non-dg shipments and to include HAZMAT Service Type Codes (STC) and Extra Service Codes (ESC) when shipping dangerous goods packages. These measures contributed to a 20% reduction in overall dangerous goods incidents in 2023. Building on the success of reducing incidents through these changes, the USPS has decided to implement more new policies aimed at enhancing safety and further minimizing incidents involving packages containing dangerous goods.

What are the Changes?

On January 27, 2025, the USPS issued a final rule requiring mailers shipping dangerous goods to use rigid outer packaging that meet specific strength requirements. Packages weighing 20 pounds or less must meet a minimum edge crush test (ECT) of 32 or a burst test strength of 200 lbs. in addition, heavier packages exceeding 20 pounds must meet at least an ECT of 44 or a burst test strength of 275 lbs. This change aims to enhance package durability during normal processing and handling, reducing the risk of incidents involving dangerous goods.

Under this new rule, mailers may also now use padded or poly bags for shipments containing lithium batteries installed in new or manufacturer-refurbished equipment, provided the batteries are enclosed in an outer container (such as the manufacturer’s box) capable of withstanding a 1.2-meter drop test. Speaking of lithium batteries, The USPS has also decided to align with the 49 CFR regulations by eliminating the requirement to include a telephone number on the lithium battery mark.

The Postal Service encourages mailers to switch to a mark that does not include a telephone number as soon as possible and be fully compliant by January 1, 2027. The complete ruling can be found HERE.

When it comes to this final rule set by the USPS, here at ICC The Compliance Center we not only offer the compliant lithium battery marking, but all of our 4G dangerous goods packaging meets or exceeds the new requirements of the minimum edge crush test (ECT) and burst test strength mentioned above.

Do you have any questions about shipping lithium batteries? Take a look at our Lithium Battery FAQ or contact our team of experts at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help.