Parcels

Most parcels must be handled several times before they reach their destination. The quality of packaging makes a difference in the parcel's safe arrival. Packages should be strong enough to retain and protect contents during normal handling. Restrictions apply on the ability to mail certain items such as matches, flammable liquids and poisons. Please check with Delivery Services if you have any questions.

Acceptable containers include corrugated or solid fiberboard, paperboard (for small items), metal cans, tubes or boxes, wooden boxes and fiber mailing tubes with metal ends. The strength of the tube ends must be equal to the tube side-wall strength, unless the contents are lightweight, rolled items.

For easy loads of up to 5 pounds, paper bags and wraps are acceptable when at least of a 50-pound basis weight (the strength of an average large grocery bag) and items are immune from impact or pressure damage. Do not use string or staples to secure package.

Cellophane and masking tape may not be used for closure or reinforcement of packages but may be used to augment adhesive closures on envelopes or to cover staples on bags. Except for pressure-sensitive filament tape, tapes used for closure and reinforcement may not be less than 2 inches wide. Non-reinforced plastic tapes must be at least as strong in the cross direction as in the machine (long) direction.

Packages containing breakable items should be marked Fragile above the address, below the postage and on the reverse side. Those containing foods or other items which would decay should be marked Perishable.

Address information should be clearly typed or printed on an address label placed in the center of the parcel. The To: and From: should be clearly indicated.

Indicate what class the package should be sent. All packages with no mail class indication will be sent First Class.