**Item category:** Electronic devices connected to lithium batteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Each parcel must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in a device; lithium ion max 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery; lithium metal max 1g per cell or 2g per battery; max net quantity 5kg per parcel.

> Packaging guidelines: Each parcel must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in a device. For lithium ion/polymer batteries the Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Electronic devices connected to lithium batteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Electronic devices sent with lithium batteries (battery not connected)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Maximum lithium batteries per parcel is the minimum needed to power the device plus two spares; lithium ion max 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery; lithium metal max 1g per cell or 2g per battery; max net quantity 5kg per parcel; defective or damaged cells forbidden.

> The maximum number of lithium batteries allowed in each parcel is the minimum number required to power the device plus two spares. For lithium ion/polymer batteries the Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery. For lithium metal/alloy batteries the lithium content must not be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Electronic devices sent with lithium batteries (battery not connected) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Environmentally hazardous substances

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Samples must not exceed 5 litres/5kg; pack in a leak proof or sift proof inner protected by cushioning material in rigid outer packaging.

> Packaging Guidelines: Samples must not exceed 5litres/5kgs. Pack in a leak proof or sift proof inner and protect by cushioning material in rigid outer packaging.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Environmentally hazardous substances — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Financial documents (money, banker's drafts, cheques, bonds, securities)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** prohibited on Parcelforce Worldwide international services; UK services excluded from compensation

**Conditions:** Financial documents exchangeable for money, goods or services cannot be sent on Parcelforce Worldwide international services; they can be sent on UK services but are excluded from compensation.

> any financial documents (money, banker's drafts, Cheques, dividends, binds securities etc.) which can be exchanged themselves or with any other document, for money goods or services cannot be sent on PFWW international services. They can be sent on PFWW UK services but are excluded from compensation.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Financial documents (money, banker's drafts, cheques, bonds, securities) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Firearms classified as weapons of war (Section 5) and ammunition

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** all Royal Mail and Parcelforce Worldwide services

**Conditions:** May not be sent by any Royal Mail or Parcelforce Worldwide service under any circumstances; airguns, Section 1 and Section 2 firearms may be sent as guns for sporting use; deactivated, antique and imitation firearms are allowed.

> Firearms and their component parts classified as weapons of war (e.g. Section 5 firearms), ammunition of any kind and firearms prohibited under the Firearms Acts l968-l997 may not be sent by any Royal Mail or Parcelforce Worldwide service under any circumstances.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Firearms classified as weapons of war (Section 5) and ammunition — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Food (fish, meat, vegetables and fruit)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK; some International services prohibited

**Conditions:** Must be packed to withstand a journey of up to two days and sent by a guaranteed next day service as a minimum within the UK; packages clearly labelled PERISHABLE; export of foodstuffs to certain destinations on Globalpriority and Globalvalue is prohibited.

> Fish, meat, vegetables and fruit may be sent through the post but they should be packed to withstand a journey of up to two days and must be sent by a guaranteed next day service as a minimum requirement within the UK.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Food (fish, meat, vegetables and fruit) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Fraudulent articles (fictitious or reused postage)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Items bearing fictitious postage stamps or franking impressions, previously used postage, or bundles of postal items addressed to different people at different addresses are prohibited.

> Items bearing fictitious postage stamp or franking machine impression. Any item on which there is a stamp or franking machine impression which has been previously used to pre-pay any postal item.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Fraudulent articles (fictitious or reused postage) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Hoverboards (self-balancing, mono-wheel, stand-up, unicycle or electric skateboards)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Includes any type of rechargeable battery-powered self-balancing, mono-wheel, stand-up, unicycle or electric skateboard.

> Hoverboards (including any type of rechargeable battery-powered: self-balancing, mono-wheel, stand-up, unicycle or electric skateboard

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Hoverboards (self-balancing, mono-wheel, stand-up, unicycle or electric skateboards) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Human or animal ashes

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** Royal Mail only; prohibited by Parcelforce Worldwide

**Conditions:** Volume per item must not exceed 50g; ashes in a sift-proof container, securely closed, in strong outer packaging; can only be sent using a Royal Mail service and are prohibited by Parcelforce Worldwide.

> Human or animal ashes can only be sent using a Royal Mail service and must not exceed 50g in weight. These items are prohibited by Parcelforce Worldwide.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Human or animal ashes — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Human or animal samples

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** Royal Mail only

**Conditions:** May only be sent at the specific request of a qualified medical practitioner, dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory; total sample volume/mass must not exceed 1kg, solids only, in Packaging Instruction 650 compliant packaging.

> Packaging Guidelines: the total sample volume/mass in any parcel must not exceed 1kg. Solids only can be sent. All human or animal samples must be posted in packaging that complies with packaging instruction 650, such as Royal Mail Safebox product.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Human or animal samples — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Indecent, obscene or offensive articles

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Indecent or obscene communications, prints, photographs, books or other articles, and parcels bearing grossly offensive, indecent or obscene words, marks or designs are prohibited; items discovered in transit are stopped and handed to Customs or the Police.

> Indecent or obscene communications, prints, photographs, books or other articles, and parcels bearing grossly offensive, indecent or obscene words, marks or designs are prohibited.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Indecent, obscene or offensive articles — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Liquids over 1 litre (not classified as dangerous goods)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner and leak-proof outer; Parcelforce Worldwide maximum 5 litres per box, express48 only.

> Liquids over 1 litre (containing liquids not classified as dangerous goods) Packaging guidelines: Items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner, such as a sealed polythene bag and in a leak-proof outer.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Liquids over 1 litre (not classified as dangerous goods) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Live creatures, insects and invertebrates

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** Royal Mail only; prohibited by Parcelforce Worldwide

**Conditions:** Live animals and reptiles are prohibited; permitted creatures include bees, caterpillars, cockroaches, crickets, earthworms, leeches, maggots, mealworms, silkworms, spiders and stick insects; items must be marked URGENT - LIVING CREATURES - HANDLE WITH CARE and sent 1st Class minimum.

> Live animals and reptiles are prohibited, as are any creatures or insects classified as dangerous within the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (including certain venomous spiders).

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Live creatures, insects and invertebrates — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Magnetised material (counter guidance threshold)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Prohibited with a field strength of 0.418A/metre or more at a distance of 4.6 metres from the outside of the package.

> Magnetised material (with a field strength of 0.418A/metre or more at a distance of 4.6 metres from the outside of the package)

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Magnetised material (counter guidance threshold) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Misleading endorsements

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Items must not bear unauthorized words, marks or designs which may reasonably lead the recipient to believe the parcel has been sent by Her Majesty's Service.

> Misleading Endorsements - Items must not bear words, marks or designs which are unauthorized and which may reasonably lead the recipient to believe that the parcel has been sent by Her Majesty's Service.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Misleading endorsements — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Nail varnish, polish or gel (counter guidance)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Volume per item must not exceed 30ml; no more than four items in any one parcel; strong outer packaging, cushioned; must be presented at the counter.

> Nail varnish, polish or gel Packaging guidelines: Volume per item must not exceed 30ml. No more than four items in any one parcel.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Nail varnish, polish or gel (counter guidance) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** New wet, non-spillable batteries (sealed lead acid, absorbed glass mat, gel cell)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** No more than one battery per parcel; maximum weight 1.5kg; protected against short circuit and securely packaged; package marked 'NOT RESTRICTED' and 'SPA67 / SP238'.

> Packaging guidelines: No more than one battery in any one parcel. Maximum weight 1.5kg. Item must be protected against short circuit (by insulation of exposed terminals) and securely packaged. Package must be marked 'NOT RESTRICTED' and 'SPA67 / SP238'.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

New wet, non-spillable batteries (sealed lead acid, absorbed glass mat, gel cell) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Passports and other official forms of identification

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** Parcelforce Worldwide international services

**Conditions:** Must be classified as Proof of Identity on the customs declaration; sent by globalexpress they can be delayed at least 24 hours, are not covered by the delivery guarantee and no compensation is available for delay.

> These must be classified as Proof of Identity and shown clearly on the relevant customs declaration.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Passports and other official forms of identification — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Perfumes and aftershaves (counter guidance)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Volume per item must not exceed 150ml; no more than four items in any one parcel; must be in original retail packaging, in strong outer packaging, cushioned; must be presented at the counter.

> Perfumes and aftershaves (including eau de parfum and eau de toilette) Packaging guidelines: Volume per item must not exceed 150ml. No more than four items in any one parcel.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Perfumes and aftershaves (counter guidance) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Power banks

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Power banks contain a lithium battery used as a spare/portable charging device and are therefore classed as lithium batteries, which are prohibited when sent solo.

> Power Banks, Power banks are a small device containing a lithium battery used as a type of spare/portable charging device for electronic items. They are therefore classed as lithium batteries.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Power banks — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Prescription medicines (non-toxic, non-flammable, including asthma inhalers)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK; Parcelforce Worldwide international with a visible prescription

**Conditions:** Net quantity per parcel not to exceed 1 litre/1kg; Parcelforce advise against globalexpress for prescription medicines; if sent, a copy of the prescription must be visible on the outside of the parcel.

> If the customer is insistent, please advise them that the parcel must have a copy of the prescription visible on the outside of the parcel. If a prescription is not attached, no compensation is available if the item is delayed, or is undeliverable.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Prescription medicines (non-toxic, non-flammable, including asthma inhalers) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Prescription medicines (toxic or flammable) sent for scientific or medical purposes

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK (Post Office counter)

**Conditions:** Inner packs not to exceed 50ml/50g per tablet/capsule or small bottles up to 50ml; net quantity per parcel not to exceed 500ml/500g; liquids in a sealed polythene bag, solids in a siftproof container.

> Inner packaging can be blister packs of tablets or capsules of liquid (each pack not to exceed 50ml/50g per tablet/capsule), or small bottles of liquid up to 50ml. Net quantity in any parcel not to exceed 500ml/500g.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Prescription medicines (toxic or flammable) sent for scientific or medical purposes — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Sharp objects (scissors, blades, needles, syringes, chisels, saws, fishing hooks)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Items must present no risk to employees, other postal items or recipients; wrap heavy cardboard around sharp edges strong enough that contents do not pierce the outer packaging.

> Packaging guidelines Items must present no risk to employees, other postal items or recipients. Wrap heavy cardboard around sharp edges and points, strong enough to ensure that the contents do not pierce the outer packaging.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Sharp objects (scissors, blades, needles, syringes, chisels, saws, fishing hooks) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Valuable items (coins, banknotes, precious metals, jewels)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** International

**Conditions:** Must be sent using International Tracked and Signature services where applicable; maximum compensation for an item containing money is £100; some destinations do not accept valuable items.

> Gold or silver whether manufactured or not and other precious stones, jewels and other valuables must be sent using one of the International Tracked and Signature services where applicable.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Valuable items (coins, banknotes, precious metals, jewels) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels (counter guidance)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Allowed in the mail; volume per item should not exceed 150ml; no restriction on the number of items per package; securely closed in a leak-proof liner with absorbent and cushioning material.

> Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels International & UK - Allowed in the mail, see restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Volume per item should not exceed 150ml.

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels (counter guidance) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Weapons (items made or adapted to cause injury)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Parcelforce

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK and International

**Conditions:** Includes items made or adapted for the sole purpose of causing injury, Section 5 firearms, CS gas, pepper sprays, tasers, stun guns, flick knives, gravity knives, disguised knives, butterfly knives and crossbows.

> Includes items made for the sole purpose of causing injury to a person, items adapted for use to cause injury to a person, and any item intended by the person sending or receiving it to cause injury to a person

Source: <https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/media/w5dlus1c/foia-response_foi2025_00179_appendix-d_rm-dangerous-goods-and-prohibited-and-restricted.pdf>

Weapons (items made or adapted to cause injury) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Mail

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Batteries must comply with Special Provision 238 of the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations (please check with the manufacturer or distributor)

> Batteries must comply with Special Provision 238 of the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations (please check with the manufacturer or distributor)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Batteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Act 1976 (including certain venomous spiders)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

> Act 1976 (including certain venomous spiders)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Act 1976 (including certain venomous spiders) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Aerosols

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** International

**Conditions:** International – not allowed in the mail

> ohibited and restricted items A – C D – H I – O P – Z A – C Aerosols Aerosols for toiletry or medicinal purposes (including deodorants, body sprays, hair sprays, shaving and hair removal creams and medicinal aerosols for prevention or cure such as flea sprays) - for asthma inhalers see Prescription medicines International – not allowed in the mail UK &

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Aerosols — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Alcohol less than 24% ABV

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Alcohol less than 24% ABV — Postal shipping restrictions by item category

carrier, item_category, restriction_type, scope


**Item category:** Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume (ABV)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

> l general advice: place in a suitable rigid outer container Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume (ABV) (including beer, lager, wine and champagne) UK & International – allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Volume should not exceed 1 litre per item Wrap in polythene and seal with tap

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume (ABV) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Volume should not exceed 1 litre per item; must wrap in polythene and seal with tape; mark as FRAGILE when sending glass bottles

> l general advice: place in a suitable rigid outer container Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume (ABV) (including beer, lager, wine and champagne) UK & International – allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Volume should not exceed 1 litre per item Wrap in polythene and seal with tap

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing less than 24% alcohol by volume — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

>  not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) (eg gin, rum, vodka, whisky) International – not allowed in the mail UK – allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Volume must not exceed 1 litre per item

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** International

**Conditions:** International – not allowed in the mail

> mail UK – not allowed in the mail Alcoholic beverages Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) (eg gin, rum, vodka, whisky) Intern

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Alcoholic beverages and liquids containing more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Ammunition

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** International

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> International – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Ammunition — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Asbestos

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** International

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> International – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Asbestos — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Balloons filled with non-flammable gases

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** ensure adequate cushioning material and place in a suitable rigid outer container

> ensure adequate cushioning material and place in a suitable rigid outer container

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Balloons filled with non-flammable gases — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries (dangerous goods, not connected to device)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Batteries classified as dangerous goods including wet spillable lead acid, used alkaline metal, NiMH, NiCd, zinc-air, solo lithium batteries, power banks and damaged batteries are not allowed

> Batteries that are classified as dangerous goods and certain used batteries (including wet spillable lead acid/lead alkaline batteries [such as car batteries], used alkaline metal, nickel metal hydride [NiMH], nickel cadmium [NiCd], zinc-air batteries, solo lithium batteries, power banks and damaged batteries of any type) International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Batteries (dangerous goods, not connected to device) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries (new alkaline, NiMH, NiCd, zinc-air)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging; surround with cushioning material

> Batteries, specifically new alkaline metal, nickel metal hydride (NiMH), nickel cadmium (NiCd), zinc-air and zinc chloride including: D, C, 9V, AA, AAA and AAAA alkaline batteries UK & International – allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Batteries (new alkaline, NiMH, NiCd, zinc-air) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries (new lithium, not with device)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** New and used lithium batteries when not sent with or connected to an electronic device including power banks are not allowed

> Batteries, specifically new and used lithium batteries when not sent with or connected to an electronic device (including power banks) International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Batteries (new lithium, not with device) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>


**Item category:** Biological substances (Category B)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Biological substances (Category B) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Bladed items

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Prohibited from all Parcelforce Worldwide services

> Prohibited from all Parcelforce Worldwide services

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Bladed items — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Car parts

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Car parts, panels, doors, bumpers and bonnets are prohibited using Parcelforce Worldwide services

> Car parts, panels, doors, bumpers and bonnets are prohibited using Parcelforce Worldwide services

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Car parts — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Christmas crackers

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Can only be sent in their complete made-up form and in their original retail packaging

>  not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail Christmas crackers UK & International – allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Crackers can only be sent in their complete made-up form and in their original retail packaging D – H Dry ice (for example UN1845 when used as a coolant for UN3373 or for other perish

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Christmas crackers — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Clinical and medical waste

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Clinical and medical waste — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Controlled drugs and narcotics

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Controlled drugs and narcotics — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Corrosives

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Corrosives — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** except copies of old denominations, which are now obsolete and worthless except for collectable value and cannot be passed as tender

> Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps (except copies of old denominations, which are now obsolete and worthless except for collectable value and cannot be passed as tender)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Dead insects, sent as collectables

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Dead insects, sent as collectables, are allowed

> Dead insects, sent as collectables, are allowed

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Dead insects, sent as collectables — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Dry ice

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Not allowed in the mail

> on 650, such as our Safebox product (note: frozen water and dry ice are prohibited) The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging Bladed items Bladed articles and bladed products as defined by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, including but not limited to, any knife (including a folding pocket knife), any knife blade, cutl

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Dry ice — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Electronic devices with lithium batteries (battery connected to device)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** No more than four cells or two batteries installed; Wh rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery; must be presented at a Post Office counter

> Electronic devices connected to lithium batteries (including mobile phones, digital cameras, etc) where the battery is connected to the device

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Electronic devices with lithium batteries (battery connected to device) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Electronic devices with lithium batteries (battery not connected)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Maximum number of lithium batteries is minimum required to power device plus two spares; Wh rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery; prohibited internationally

> Electronic devices sent with lithium batteries (including mobile phones, digital cameras, etc) where the battery is not connected to the device

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Electronic devices with lithium batteries (battery not connected) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category

carrier, conditions, item_category, scope


**Item category:** Environmental Hazardous Substances

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Pack in a leak-proof or sift-proof inner and protect by cushioning material in rigid outer packaging

> Pack in a leak-proof or sift-proof inner and protect by cushioning material in rigid outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Environmental Hazardous Substances — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Environmental Waste

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** UK – not allowed in the mail

> and protect by cushioning material in rigid outer packaging Environmental waste (including used batteries and used engine oil) International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail Explosives (including fireworks, flares, blasting caps, party poppers, Christmas cracker snaps) Any chemical compound, mixture or device capable of prod

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Environmental Waste — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Explosives

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** UK – not allowed in the mail

>  not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail Explosives (including fireworks, flares, blasting caps, party poppers, Christmas cracker snaps) Any chemical compound, mixture or device capable of producing an explosive or pyrotechnic effect with substantial instantaneous release of heat and gas is prohibited eg ammunition, blasting caps, Christma

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Explosives — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Firearms

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Sender's name and address must be visible on the parcel

> Sender's name and address must be visible on the parcel

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Firearms — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Flammable liquids

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Flammable liquids — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Flammable solids

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Flammable solids — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Frozen water and dry ice

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Must be suitably sealed to prevent leakage or tainting of other items such as in sealed vacuum packs

> Must be suitably sealed to prevent leakage or tainting of other items such as in sealed vacuum packs

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Frozen water and dry ice — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Frozen water

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Frozen water — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Gases (flammable, non-flammable, toxic, compressed)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Not allowed in the mail; includes new, used and empty gas cylinders, fire extinguishers, scuba tanks

> (including flammable, non-flammable, toxic and compressed gases, new or used and empty gas cylinders, ethane, butane, refills for lighters, fire extinguishers and scuba tanks, life jackets, nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide canisters including culinary foaming devices and SodaStream)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Gases (flammable, non-flammable, toxic, compressed) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Gases, including flammable, non-flammable, toxic and compressed gases

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Gases, including flammable, non-flammable, toxic and compressed gases — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Goods made in foreign prisons

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Goods made in foreign prisons — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Guns for sporting use

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** allowed in the mail, see restrictions and packaging guidelines below

> UK – allowed in the mail, see restrictions and packaging guidelines below:

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Guns for sporting use — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Human or animal ashes

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Human or animal ashes — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** International – not allowed in the mail

> International – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lighters (empty, new or unused)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Must be unopened and in their original retail packaging; lighters considered to contain residual fuel may be disposed of

> Must be unopened and in their original retail packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Lighters (empty, new or unused) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lighters

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Lighters considered to contain residual fuel may be disposed of

> Lighters considered to contain residual fuel may be disposed of

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Lighters — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Liquids not classified as dangerous goods

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Customers posting via Parcelforce Worldwide, maximum 5 litres per container, must be sent using express48

> Customers posting via Parcelforce Worldwide, maximum 5 litres per container, must be sent using express48

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Liquids not classified as dangerous goods — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Liquids under 1 litre

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Mark as "FRAGILE" when sending glass bottles

> Mark as "FRAGILE" when sending glass bottles

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Liquids under 1 litre — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lithium Batteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation

> The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Lithium Batteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Live creatures, insects and invertebrates

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** The sender's name and address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Live creatures, insects and invertebrates — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lottery tickets

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** UK – not allowed in the mail (except UK lottery tickets)

> UK – not allowed in the mail (except UK lottery tickets)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Lottery tickets — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Magnetised material

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Should be wrapped in soft packaging at least 2cm thick around each item

> Should be wrapped in soft packaging at least 2cm thick around each item

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Magnetised material — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Matches

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Not allowed in the mail, including safety matches and windproof matches

> Matches (including safety matches and windproof matches) International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Matches — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Medicines

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Sender's name and address must be visible on the parcel

> Sender's name and address must be visible on the parcel

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Medicines — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Nail varnish, polish or gel

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

> These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Nail varnish, polish or gel — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

> Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Oxidising materials or organic peroxides

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

> Oxidising materials or organic peroxides

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Oxidising materials or organic peroxides — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Paints (solvent-based)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Not allowed in the mail

> Solvent-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels International – not allowed in the mail UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Paints (solvent-based) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Paints (water-based)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Volume per item should not exceed 150ml; must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner

> Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels International & UK – allowed in the mail, see restrictions and packaging guidelines below: Volume per item should not exceed 150ml

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Paints (water-based) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Paints, wood varnishes and enamels

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Paints, wood varnishes and enamels — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Perfumes and aftershaves

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

> These items must be presented at a Post Office® counter

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Perfumes and aftershaves — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Perishable items

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Packages must be clearly labelled "PERISHABLE"

> Packages must be clearly labelled "PERISHABLE"

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Perishable items — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Plants and seeds for planting

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK destinations

**Conditions:** UK destinations - Allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below. Note: from 2 June 2025 plants and seeds are prohibited when sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

> UK destinations - Allowed in the mail, with restrictions and packaging guidelines below. Note: from 2 June 2025 plants and seeds are prohibited when sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Plants and seeds for planting — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Poisons, toxic liquids, solids and gases

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** International – not allowed in the mail

> International – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Poisons, toxic liquids, solids and gases — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Prescription medicines and drugs sent for scientific or medical purposes

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution

> May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Prescription medicines and drugs sent for scientific or medical purposes — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Radioactive materials and samples

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Radioactive materials and samples — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Sharp objects

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** International & UK

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Sharp objects — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Soil samples

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Soil samples sent for analysis are permitted provided they are packaged so that any leaks and spills are contained in the outer packaging

> Soil samples sent for analysis are permitted provided they are packaged so that any leaks and spills are contained in the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Soil samples — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** substances and injure health

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

substances and injure health — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Tickets and related advertisements for illegal lotteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** UK – not allowed in the mail

> UK – not allowed in the mail

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Tickets and related advertisements for illegal lotteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Vaccines

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** The vaccines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a sift-proof container (for solids)

> The vaccines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a sift-proof container (for solids)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Vaccines — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Water-based paint

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

> Water-based paint

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Water-based paint — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** International & UK

**Conditions:** The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

> The sender's name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Water-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Weapons

**Carrier:** Royal Mail / Post Office

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK & International

**Conditions:** Weapons (including Section 5 firearms, CS gas and pepper sprays, flick knives and other knives that are banned under UK laws, tasers and stun guns)

> Weapons (including Section 5 firearms, CS gas and pepper sprays, flick knives and other knives that are banned under UK laws, tasers and stun guns)

Source: <https://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/what-can-i-send>

Weapons — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Aerosols

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Includes spray paints, lacquers, solvents, air fresheners, oven cleaners, deodorants, body sprays, hair sprays, shaving and hair removal creams; inhalers with a volume of 50ml or less are allowed.

> Aerosols Including spray paints, lacquers, solvents, air fresheners, oven cleaners, deodorants, body sprays, hair sprays, shaving and hair removal creams. Inhalers with a volume of 50ml or less are allowed.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Aerosols — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Alcoholic beverages greater than 24% ABV

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Spirits such as gin, vodka and whisky; beverages no greater than 24% ABV including beer, lager, wine and champagne are allowed.

> With an alcohol content greater than 24% ABV including spirits such as gin, vodka and whisky. Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content no greater than 24% ABV including beer, lager, wine and champagne, are allowed.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Alcoholic beverages greater than 24% ABV — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Ammunition

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Except lead pellets.

> Ammunition Except lead pellets.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Ammunition — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Asbestos

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Except when sent as a sample fixed in a resin, plastic or glass matrix.

> Asbestos Except when sent as a sample fixed in a resin, plastic or glass matrix.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Asbestos — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Batteries classed as dangerous goods (lithium ion/polymer/metal/alloy, lead acid)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Batteries classed as dangerous goods by the latest ICAO Technical Instructions are prohibited, including lithium batteries sent in isolation, with or contained in electronic equipment; lead acid and sealed lead acid batteries also prohibited; new alkaline, NiMH and NiCd batteries in original packaging may be sent.

> Batteries that are classed as dangerous goods by the latest edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Technical Instructions are prohibited. This includes lithium ion/polymer/metal/alloy batteries sent in isolation, with or contained in electronic equipment such as mobile phones or digital cameras.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Batteries classed as dangerous goods (lithium ion/polymer/metal/alloy, lead acid) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Clinical and medical waste

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** For example contaminated dressings, bandages and needles.

> Clinical and medical waste For example contaminated dressings, bandages and needles.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Clinical and medical waste — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Controlled drugs and narcotics

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD, opium and amyl nitrate.

> Controlled drugs and narcotics Including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD, opium and amyl nitrate.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Controlled drugs and narcotics — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Corrosive substances

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Substances which can cause severe damage to living tissue, other freight or transport by chemical action, including aluminium chloride, caustic soda, corrosive cleaning fluid, dyes, acids, corrosive paint and rust removers, mercury and gallium metal.

> Substances which can cause severe damage to living tissue, other freight or transport by its chemical action are prohibited including aluminium chloride, caustic soda, corrosive cleaning fluid, dyes, acids, corrosive paint and rust removers, mercury and gallium metal.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Corrosive substances — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including any false instrument within the meaning of section 5 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981, except copies of obsolete old denominations that cannot be passed as tender.

> Including any false instrument, or copy of a false instrument (within the meaning of section 5 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981) except copies of old denominations, which are now obsolete and worthless except for collectable value and cannot be passed as tender.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Dry ice

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** For example UN1845 when used as a coolant for UN3373 or for other perishable items.

> Dry ice For example UN1845 when used as a coolant for UN3373 or for other perishable items.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Dry ice — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Electronic items containing any batteries exceeding 100Wh

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including some high performance laptops and power tools.

> Electronic items containing any batteries exceeding 100Wh Including some high performance laptops and power tools.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Electronic items containing any batteries exceeding 100Wh — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Environmental waste

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including used batteries and used engine oil.

> Environmental waste Including used batteries and used engine oil.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Environmental waste — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Explosives

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Any chemical compound, mixture or device capable of producing an explosive or pyrotechnic effect, e.g. ammunition, blasting caps, fireworks, flares, fuses, igniters and nitro-glycerine.

> Any chemical compound, mixture or device capable of producing an explosive or pyrotechnic effect with substantial instantaneous release of heat and gas is prohibited e.g. ammunition, blasting caps, fireworks, flares, fuses, igniters and nitro-glycerine.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Explosives — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Flammable liquids

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Any liquid with a closed cup flash point below 60.5° C, e.g. acetone, benzene, cleaning compounds, gasoline, lighter fuel, paint thinners, petroleum, solvents, certain alcoholic beverages, perfumes and aftershaves, varnishes and enamels including nail varnish.

> Any liquid with a closed cup flash point below 60.5° C is prohibited e.g. acetone, benzene, cleaning compounds, gasoline, lighter fuel, paint thinners and removers, petroleum and solvents, certain alcoholic beverages, perfumes and aftershaves, varnishes and enamels including nail varnish.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Flammable liquids — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Flammable solids

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Solid materials liable to cause fire by friction, absorption of water, spontaneous chemical changes or retained heat, e.g. adhesives, calcium carbide, cellulose nitrate products, fire lighters, matches, metallic magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, zinc powder.

> Flammable solids Solid materials which are liable to cause fire by friction, absorption of water, spontaneous chemical changes or retained heat from manufacturing or processing, or Prohibited item* Detailed information which can be readily ignited and burn vigorously e.g.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Flammable solids — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Frozen water

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including packs of ice.

> Frozen water Including packs of ice.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Frozen water — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Gases (compressed, liquefied or dissolved under pressure)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** All flammable compressed gases (butane, lighters and refills, propane), all toxic compressed gases (chlorine, fluorine), and all non-flammable compressed gases (air bags, scuba tanks, carbon dioxide, fire extinguishers) are prohibited.

> 1. All flammable compressed gases are prohibited e.g. blowlamps; butane; lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas; ethane; gas cylinders for camping stoves; hydrogen; methane and propane. 2. All toxic compressed gases are prohibited e.g. chlorine; fluorine etc. 3. All non-flammable compressed gases are prohibited e.g. air bags; scuba tanks, carbon dioxide; fire extinguishers; neon and nitrogen.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Gases (compressed, liquefied or dissolved under pressure) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Goods made in foreign prisons

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Except those imported for a non-commercial purpose, of a kind not manufactured in the UK, or those in transit.

> Goods made in foreign prisons Except those imported for a non-commercial purpose, of a kind not manufactured in the UK, or those in transit.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Goods made in foreign prisons — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Human and animal remains

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including ashes.

> Human and animal remains Including ashes.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Human and animal remains — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Infectious substances UN2814 or UN2900 (Category A)

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Category A infectious substances such as Ebola, Anthrax, Foot and Mouth disease as detailed in the latest ICAO Technical Instructions.

> Category A Infectious Substances are prohibited e.g. Ebola, Anthrax, Foot and Mouth disease as detailed in the latest edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Technical Instructions.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Infectious substances UN2814 or UN2900 (Category A) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including used butane and petrol cigar and cigarette lighters; new and unused empty lighters are allowed.

> Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas Including used butane and petrol cigar and cigarette lighters. New and unused empty lighters are allowed.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Living creatures, animals and reptiles

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Except certain insects and invertebrates.

> Living creatures, animals and reptiles Except certain insects and invertebrates.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Living creatures, animals and reptiles — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lottery tickets

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Except UK lottery tickets.

> Lottery tickets Except UK lottery tickets.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Lottery tickets — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Magnetised material

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Magnetised material with a magnetic field strength of 0.159A/m or more at a distance of 2.1m from the outside of the package.

> Magnetised material with a magnetic field strength of 0.159A/m or more at a distance of 2.1m from the outside of the package.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Magnetised material — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Matches

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Of any kind, including safety and windproof matches.

> Matches Of any kind, including safety and windproof matches.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Matches — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including obscene or extreme pornography as detailed in Part 5 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 and indecent photographs of a child as detailed in the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

> Including obscene or extreme pornography as detailed in Part 5 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 and indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child as detailed in section 160 and 161 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Oxidising materials and organic peroxides

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Substances that may cause or contribute to combustion of other substances, e.g. bromides, chlorates, components of fibreglass repair kits, disinfectants, nitrates, permanganates and peroxides, including hair dyes and colourants containing peroxide.

> These are substances such as disinfectants that may cause or contribute to combustion of other substances. They may also be liable to explosive decomposition, react dangerously with other substances and injure health e.g. bromides, chlorates, components of fibreglass repair kits, disinfectants, nitrates, per chlorates, permanganates and peroxides, including hair dyes and colourants containing peroxide.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Oxidising materials and organic peroxides — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Pesticides

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including weed killer and any chemical used to kill pests and insects such as fly sprays.

> Pesticides Including weed killer and any chemical that is used to kill pests and insects such as fly sprays.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Pesticides — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Poisonous, toxic liquids, solids or gases

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Substances liable to cause death or injury if swallowed, inhaled or by skin contact, such as arsenic, beryllium, cyanide, fluorine, rat poison.

> Including substances that are liable to cause death or injury if swallowed or inhaled or by skin contact, such as arsenic, beryllium, cyanide, fluorine, rat poison.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Poisonous, toxic liquids, solids or gases — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Radioactive materials

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Materials classified as radioactive using Table 2-12 of the latest ICAO Technical Instructions, e.g. fissile material, radioactive waste, thorium or uranium ores and luminous aircraft dials.

> Radioactive materials and samples that are classified as radioactive using Table 2-12 of the latest edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Technical Instructions e.g. fissile material (uranium 235, etc), radioactive waste material, thorium or uranium ores and luminous dials from aircraft.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Radioactive materials — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Solvent-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including gloss paint.

> Solvent-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels Including gloss paint

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Solvent-based paints, wood varnishes and enamels — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Tickets and related advertisements for illegal lotteries

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Prohibited for Access customers.

> Tickets and related advertisements for illegal lotteries

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Tickets and related advertisements for illegal lotteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Waste, dirt, filth or refuse

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including household waste or rubbish.

> Waste, dirt, filth or refuse Including household waste or rubbish.

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Waste, dirt, filth or refuse — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Weapons

**Carrier:** Royal Mail Wholesale (Access customers)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** UK

**Conditions:** Including Section 5 firearms, CS gas and pepper sprays, flick knives, tasers and stun guns; guns for sporting use, including Section 1 and Section 2 firearms and low-powered airguns, are allowed subject to firearms controls.

> Weapons Including Section 5 firearms, CS gas and pepper sprays, flick knives, tasers and stun

Source: <https://www.royalmailwholesale.com/mint-project/uploads/233157117.pdf>

Weapons — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lithium batteries (100 watt hours or less) in a device

**Carrier:** TSA (air transport screening)

**Restriction type:** allowed

**Scope:** carry-on bags and checked bags

**Conditions:** Carry On Bags: Yes. Checked Bags: Yes (Special Instructions). Lithium ion batteries limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery.

> Carry On Bags: Yes

Source: <https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/lithium-batteries-100-watt-hours-or-less-device>

Lithium batteries (100 watt hours or less) in a device — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries

**Carrier:** TSA (air transport screening)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** carry-on baggage only

**Conditions:** Must be carried in carry-on baggage only. Lithium metal limited to 2 grams per battery; lithium ion limited to 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery.

> Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. Lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries are limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery. Lithium ion (rechargeable) batteries are limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery.

Source: <https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/lithium-batteries-100-watt-hours-or-less-device>

Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Low-value imports valued at $800 or less (de minimis, all countries)

**Carrier:** US CBP (imports into the United States)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** all covered products entering the US, regardless of country of origin

**Conditions:** Executive Order 14324 suspends the duty-free de minimis exemption under section 321(a)(2)(C) of the Tariff Act of 1930 for covered products valued at $800 or less; except postal-network articles, they must be entered in ACE by a qualified party; effective 12:01 a.m. EDT August 29, 2025.

> Executive Order 14324 suspends the duty-free de minimis exemption otherwise authorized under section 321(a)(2)(C) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, for all covered products, regardless of country of origin, valued at $800 or less

Source: <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/02/2025-16802/notice-of-implementation-of-the-presidents-executive-order-14324-suspending-duty-free-de-minimis>

Low-value imports valued at $800 or less (de minimis, all countries) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Merchandise valued at $800 or less arriving by modes other than the international postal network (de minimis)

**Carrier:** US CBP (imports into the United States)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** all modes other than the international postal network

**Conditions:** CBP regulations implement an indefinite suspension of the de minimis administrative exemption; all entries of merchandise valued at $800 or less arriving through modes other than the international postal network must use formal or informal entry procedures.

> This indefinite suspension means that all entries of merchandise valued at $800 or less arriving through all modes other than the international postal network must utilize formal or informal entry procedures.

Source: <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/06/24/2026-12670/indefinite-suspension-of-the-de-minimis-exemption-for-merchandise-arriving-through-all-modes-other>

Merchandise valued at $800 or less arriving by modes other than the international postal network (de minimis) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Low-value imports sent through the international postal network (de minimis)

**Carrier:** US CBP (international postal network)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** articles sent to the US through the international postal network

**Conditions:** Executive Order 14324 establishes a new duty rate for covered products sent to the United States through the international postal network, effective for articles entered for consumption on or after 12:01 a.m. EDT August 29, 2025.

> Executive Order 14324 also establishes a new duty rate for covered products that are sent to the United States through the international postal network.

Source: <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/02/2025-16802/notice-of-implementation-of-the-presidents-executive-order-14324-suspending-duty-free-de-minimis>

Low-value imports sent through the international postal network (de minimis) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Hazardous materials — aircraft and rail quantity limits (HMT Columns 9A/9B)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, air and rail)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** passenger-carrying aircraft, passenger rail car, cargo aircraft

**Conditions:** Columns 9A and 9B specify the maximum quantities per package by passenger-carrying aircraft or rail car (9A) or by cargo aircraft only (9B); 'Forbidden' means the material may not be transported in that mode.

> Columns 9A and 9B specify the maximum quantities that may be offered for transportation in one package by passenger-carrying aircraft or passenger-carrying rail car (Column 9A) or by cargo aircraft only (Column 9B)

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Hazardous materials — aircraft and rail quantity limits (HMT Columns 9A/9B) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lithium batteries exceeding 35 kg (Special Provision A54)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, air)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** air cargo

**Conditions:** A lithium battery, including one packed with or contained in equipment, may exceed a mass of 35 kg only if approved by the Associate Administrator prior to shipment, noted on the shipping paper.

> may have a mass exceeding 35 kg if approved by the Associate Administrator prior to shipment. When approved by the Associate Administrator and shipped in accordance with this special provision, the special provision must be noted on the shipping paper.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Lithium batteries exceeding 35 kg (Special Provision A54) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Materials forbidden on passenger aircraft but permitted on cargo aircraft

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, air)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** cargo aircraft only

**Conditions:** Packages filled with a material forbidden on passenger-carrying aircraft but permitted on cargo aircraft only must be labelled with the CARGO AIRCRAFT ONLY label.

> A package offered or intended for transportation by aircraft and which is filled with a material forbidden on passenger-carrying aircraft but permitted on cargo aircraft only, or which exceeds the maximum net quantity authorized on passenger-carrying aircraft, shall be labelled with the CARGO AIRCRAFT ONLY label

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Materials forbidden on passenger aircraft but permitted on cargo aircraft — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Hazardous materials (any, offered for transportation)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US)

**Conditions:** A person may offer a hazardous material for transportation only after classing and describing it in accordance with 49 CFR parts 172 and 173 and determining the packaging is authorized.

> Except as otherwise provided in this part, a person may offer a hazardous material for transportation in a packaging or container required by this part only in accordance with the following

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-173/subpart-B/section-173.22>

Hazardous materials (any, offered for transportation) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Hazardous materials designated in the 49 CFR 172.101 Table

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US)

**Conditions:** The Hazardous Materials Table designates listed materials as hazardous; for each material it identifies the hazard class or specifies that the material is forbidden in transportation, and specifies labeling, packaging, aircraft quantity limits and vessel stowage.

> hazard class or specifies that the material is forbidden in transportation , and gives the

Source: <https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/49/172.101>

Hazardous materials designated in the 49 CFR 172.101 Table — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Lighter refills containing flammable gas (Special Provision 169)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US); air limits apply

**Conditions:** Lighter refills may not exceed 4 fluid ounces capacity or 65 grams of fuel; by passenger aircraft net mass may not exceed 1 kg per package; by cargo-only aircraft 15 kg per package.

> Lighter refills offered for transportation under this entry may not exceed 4 fluid ounces capacity (7.22 cubic inches) or contain more than 65 grams of fuel.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Lighter refills containing flammable gas (Special Provision 169) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Materials listed as 'Forbidden' in the Hazardous Materials Table

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US)

**Conditions:** A material whose hazard class entry is Forbidden may not be offered for transportation or transported, unless diluted, stabilized or incorporated in a device and classed per part 173.

> A material for which the entry in this column is “Forbidden” may not be offered for transportation or transported. This prohibition does not apply if the material is diluted, stabilized or incorporated in a device and it is classed in accordance with the definitions of hazardous materials contained in

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Materials listed as 'Forbidden' in the Hazardous Materials Table — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Materials requiring Associate Administrator approval (Special Provision 131)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US)

**Conditions:** This material may not be offered for transportation unless approved by the Associate Administrator.

> This material may not be offered for transportation unless approved by the Associate Administrator.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-B>

Materials requiring Associate Administrator approval (Special Provision 131) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** Substances requiring stabilization (otherwise forbidden)

**Carrier:** US DOT (49 CFR, all modes)

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** transportation in commerce (US)

**Conditions:** The qualifying word 'stabilized' may be added to the proper shipping name where without stabilization the substance would be forbidden for transportation according to 49 CFR 173.21(f).

> stabilized ” may be added in association with the proper shipping name , as appropriate, where without stabilization the substance would be forbidden for transportation according to

Source: <https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/49/172.101>

Substances requiring stabilization (otherwise forbidden) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 134a

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 2.2, UN3159, packing group n/a; domestic mail air: 2B; domestic mail surface: 2B

> 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 134a 2.2 UN3159 n/a 2B 2B

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 134a — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1,1-Trichloroethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 6.1, UN2831, packing group III; domestic mail air: 6A; domestic mail surface: 6A

> 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 6.1 UN2831 III 6A 6A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1,1-Trichloroethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1,1-Trifluoroethane, compressed or Refrigerant gas R 143a

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 2.1, UN2035, packing group n/a; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 2A

> 1,1,1-Trifluoroethane, compressed or Refrigerant gas R 143a 2.1 UN2035 n/a Prohibited 2A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1,1-Trifluoroethane, compressed or Refrigerant gas R 143a — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 6.1, UN1702, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: Prohibited

> 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane 6.1 UN1702 II Prohibited Prohibited

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1’-Diazoaminonaphthalene

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Listed as Forbidden in the Pub 52 Appendix A mailability guide; Prohibited in domestic mail by air and by surface.

> 1,1’-Diazoaminonaphthalene Forbidden Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1’-Diazoaminonaphthalene — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Dichloro-1-nitroethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 6.1, UN2650, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: Prohibited

> 1,1-Dichloro-1-nitroethane 6.1 UN2650 II Prohibited Prohibited

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Dichloro-1-nitroethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Dichloroethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN2362, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,1-Dichloroethane 3 UN2362 II Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Dichloroethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Difluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 152a

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 2.1, UN1030, packing group n/a; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 2A

> 1,1-Difluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 152a 2.1 UN1030 n/a Prohibited 2A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Difluoroethane or Refrigerant gas R 152a — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Difluoroethylene or Refrigerant gas R 1132a

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 2.1, UN1959, packing group n/a; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 2A

> 1,1-Difluoroethylene or Refrigerant gas R 1132a 2.1 UN1959 n/a Prohibited 2A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Difluoroethylene or Refrigerant gas R 1132a — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Dimethoxyethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN2377, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,1-Dimethoxyethane 3 UN2377 II Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Dimethoxyethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,1-Dinitroethane (dry)

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Listed as Forbidden in the Pub 52 Appendix A mailability guide; Prohibited in domestic mail by air and by surface.

> 1,1-Dinitroethane (dry) Forbidden Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,1-Dinitroethane (dry) — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,2,3,6-Tetrahydrobenzaldehyde

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN2498, packing group III; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,2,3,6-Tetrahydrobenzaldehyde 3 UN2498 III Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,2,3,6-Tetrahydrobenzaldehyde — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,2,3,6-Tetrahydropyridine

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN2410, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,2,3,6-Tetrahydropyridine 3 UN2410 II Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,2,3,6-Tetrahydropyridine — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,2,4-Butanetriol trinitrate

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** prohibited

**Scope:** domestic mail (air and surface)

**Conditions:** Listed as Forbidden in the Pub 52 Appendix A mailability guide; Prohibited in domestic mail by air and by surface.

> 1,2,4-Butanetriol trinitrate Forbidden Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,2,4-Butanetriol trinitrate — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,2-Butylene oxide, stabilized

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN3022, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,2-Butylene oxide, stabilized 3 UN3022 II Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,2-Butylene oxide, stabilized — Postal shipping restrictions by item category


**Item category:** 1,2-Di-(dimethylamino)ethane

**Carrier:** USPS

**Restriction type:** restricted

**Scope:** domestic mail: surface only (air prohibited)

**Conditions:** Hazard class 3, UN2372, packing group II; domestic mail air: Prohibited; domestic mail surface: 3A

> 1,2-Di-(dimethylamino)ethane 3 UN2372 II Prohibited 3A

Source: <https://pe.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub52/pub52.pdf>

1,2-Di-(dimethylamino)ethane — Postal shipping restrictions by item category