Mailing packages is something most people do without thinking twice. Every day, millions of Americans drop letters and boxes at their local post office, expecting them to reach their destination without any issues. However, the United States Postal Service has strict rules about what can and cannot go through their system.
These regulations exist for good reasons—safety, security, and protection for both postal workers and package recipients. While common sense suggests avoiding shipping obviously dangerous items like explosives, many everyday objects are also banned from the mail system.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh produce can harbor insects that could spread to other regions. These items can also rot during transit, potentially damaging other mail. The USPS prohibits sending most fresh fruits and vegetables unless they’re properly processed and packaged. Certain states have additional restrictions to prevent the spread of agricultural pests. Only specially licensed shippers can mail specific types of produce.
Live Animals
Most live animals cannot be shipped through regular mail, including common pets like dogs, cats, and birds. The few exceptions include certain insects, small cold-blooded animals, and day-old poultry—but only when sent for specific purposes like research or commercial sale. All shipments must meet strict packaging and labeling requirements. Attempting to mail other live animals can result in serious legal consequences.
Alcoholic Beverages
Sending alcohol through USPS is strictly forbidden, regardless of the type or amount. This includes wine, beer, spirits, and even foods containing alcohol above certain percentages. The ban exists because alcohol can be dangerous if leaked during transit. Private carriers may allow alcohol shipments with proper permits. Breaking this rule can lead to hefty fines and potential criminal charges.
Used Car Parts with Oil
Car parts that still contain oil, fuel, or other fluids are prohibited from being mailed. These items pose environmental and safety risks during transport. The fluids could leak and damage other packages or create hazardous conditions. Even cleaned parts must be properly certified as fluid-free before shipping. Special packaging requirements exist for acceptable automotive components.
Cremated Remains
While it is possible to mail human or animal ashes, strict regulations apply. Only Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail are permitted for cremated remains. Specific packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements must be followed exactly. Improper shipping of remains can result in serious legal issues. The package must be marked with special identifying labels.
Lithium Batteries
Loose lithium batteries are banned from regular mail due to fire risks. These batteries can short-circuit, overheat, or explode during transit. Only batteries properly installed in devices can be shipped, following specific packaging guidelines. Different rules apply to various battery types and sizes. Violation of these regulations can result in significant penalties.
Perfumes and Colognes
Most fragrances are considered hazardous materials because they contain alcohol and other flammable ingredients. These items require special handling and packaging. Regular mail service doesn’t accept perfumes due to safety concerns. Only approved commercial shippers with proper permits can transport these products. Breaking these rules can lead to serious consequences.
Marijuana Products
Despite being legal in some states, all marijuana products are prohibited from being mailed. This includes CBD products, hemp items, and medical marijuana. Federal law supersedes state regulations when it comes to postal services. The ban applies even between states where cannabis is legal. Attempting to mail these items can result in federal drug charges.
Airbags
Undeployed airbags contain explosive components that make them dangerous to ship. These safety devices require special handling and can only be transported by authorized dealers. Due to their hazardous nature, regular mail services won’t accept airbags. Proper documentation and specialized shipping methods are required for legal transport.
Gasoline-Powered Equipment
Equipment that contains fuel, like lawnmowers or chainsaws, cannot be mailed without extensive cleaning. All fuel must be completely removed, and the item must be certified as fuel-free. Special packaging requirements exist for these items. Even trace amounts of fuel can make the shipment illegal and dangerous.
Paint and Paint Thinners
Liquid paints, varnishes, and their thinners are considered hazardous materials. These items can leak, creating safety and environmental risks. Only completely dried paint products can be shipped through regular mail. Special permits and packaging are required for shipping liquid paint products commercially.
Aerosol Cans
Pressurized containers like aerosol cans are prohibited in regular mail. These items can explode during transit due to pressure changes. The ban includes common products like spray paint and hair spray. Only ground shipping through specific carriers is allowed for aerosol products.
Matches and Lighters
All types of matches and lighters are banned from postal services. These items can ignite during transport, creating serious safety hazards. Even unused or empty lighters cannot be shipped through regular mail. Special permits and packaging are required for commercial shipment of these products.
Ammunition
Ammunition of any kind is strictly prohibited from being mailed. This includes both live and spent shells, primers, and gunpowder. Special licenses are required for shipping ammunition through approved carriers. Breaking these regulations can result in severe legal consequences and safety risks.
Pool Chemicals
Swimming pool chemicals are considered hazardous materials and cannot be mailed. They can react dangerously with other substances during transit. Special handling and documentation are required for shipping pool chemicals, and only authorized commercial carriers can transport them.
Mercury Thermometers
Mercury-containing devices are banned from regular mail due to their toxic nature. If broken, mercury can contaminate other packages and pose serious health risks. Digital alternatives should be used when shipping temperature-sensitive items. Special handling requirements exist for scientific equipment containing mercury.
Nail Polish
Due to its flammable ingredients, regular nail polish is considered hazardous. These products can’t be shipped through standard postal services, and special packaging and handling requirements apply for commercial shipments. Even small quantities of nail polish are subject to these restrictions.
Dry Ice
While dry ice can be shipped, strict regulations apply to its packaging and labeling. The amount is limited based on transportation method and package type. Special ventilation requirements must be met to prevent pressure buildup. Improper shipping of dry ice can create dangerous conditions during transit.
Loose Seeds and Plants
Many types of seeds and plants are restricted from being mailed internationally. These restrictions protect against invasive species and agricultural diseases. Specific documentation and permits are required for allowed plant materials. Violations can result in substantial fines and environmental consequences.
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