The Postal Service™ will pilot an authorization process to allow mailers to apply smaller versions of Excepted Quantity and Limited Quantity (square-on-point) hazardous materials markings to their outer packaging when these markings are incorporated into, or applied immediately adjacent to, the address label of the parcel. The Postal Service is:
n Permitting use of smaller labels in a test.
n Determining the feasibility of:
n Revising Publication 52, Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail; and
n Permanently allowing hazardous materials marks and labels in an optional reduced size when they are placed in close proximity to the delivery address, postage payment details, and routing barcode.
Although the markings are smaller, the Postal Service believes that hazardous materials markings in close proximity to the delivery address may improve visibility for employees and result in more consistent handling of parcels containing hazardous materials.
In the next few weeks, the Postal Service expects to approve temporary authorizations to mailers to allow Excepted Quantity markings and Limited Quantity (square-on-point) markings of no less than 50 millimeters (1.97 inches) in height and width when applied in close proximity to the delivery address (see example below ).
Example: Excepted Quantity Mark – Reduced Size
Dependent on the outcome of this pilot, the Postal Service may consider smaller versions of other Department of Transportation (DOT) markings applied under the conditions specified above.
Additionally, DOT has recently issued a special permit to allow a Limited Quantity mark of a minimum of 50 millimeters on each side when placed adjacent to the package tracking label. These Postal Service temporary authorizations are expected to align with DOT’s special permit process.
Employees who accept, handle, or deliver hazardous materials parcels are asked to familiarize themselves with this new marking option, and ensure they are handled in accordance with regular operational guidelines. Employees with questions may contact:
n Their local USPIS® Division Homeland Security Coordinator (see the USPIS Transportation/Aviation Mail Security blue page for contact information),
n The Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) in New York, or
n Product Classification, USPS® Headquarters.
— Product Classification, Marketing, 6-20-19
