The United States Postal Service® is piloting an authorization process to allow the application of a new hazardous materials marking (UN1013) to the outer packaging for the return of used, empty, non-flammable, compressed carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinders, such as those typically used for carbonated beverage purposes.
Currently, Publication 52, Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail, section 342.22e, states that empty, used containers of compressed gas are mailable subject to the same restrictions that applied when the container was filled (because residual amounts of the hazardous material might remain present). Empty, unused (i.e., new) containers are mailable without restrictions.
Pursuant to the above guidelines, the Postal Service™ will allow the use of the UN1013 marking in a pilot program solely for the return of used, empty, non-flammable cylinders by authorized vendors who have obtained a special permit from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and written approval from the manager, Product Classification.
The use of the UN1013 marking will be strictly limited to domestic mail only, via surface ground transportation using USPS Returns® service.
Vendors interested in obtaining approval to participate in the pilot program will be required to submit a request to the manager, Product Classification, and must be able to demonstrate the following:
n Have obtained their own DOT Special Permit for the shipment of this material.
n Provide their customers with return packaging, along with pre-paid postage using USPS Returns service, and specific return instructions.
n Evidence that the number of empty cylinders within a single (outer) package is limited to no more than two empty cylinders and the weight of the return package must not exceed a total weight of 5 pounds.
n The outer package must include the following text marks and labels with a minimum of 14-point type as indicated in the example shown here:
n DOT-SP XXXXX.
n UN1013 square-on-point marking.
n 24-hour emergency response number.
n The package must include both the mailer’s (consumer) and addressee’s (vendor) name and complete address.
n USPS Approved # XXX- XX.
n Surface Only or Surface Mail Only.
Employees who accept, handle, or deliver hazardous materials packages are asked to familiarize themselves with this new hazardous material marking, and ensure these packages are handled and processed accordingly.
For additional information, guidance, or request for approval to participate in the pilot program, contact Product Classification at ProductClassification@usps.gov.
— Product Classification, Marketing, 3-12-20
