Shipping hazardous materials (HAZMAT) without proper declaration or packaging can pose significant safety risks to postal workers, facilities, emergency responders, and the public.


Currently shipping HAZMAT is only supported via USPS ground services.


USPS now mandates that shippers formally declare any hazardous items in their parcels at the time of label purchase, with no exceptions to this requirement. Shippers must maintain compliance at all times. 


Additionally, USPS requires hazardous and non-hazardous items to be packed separately in clearly identifiable packages or mail receptacles. All parcels containing hazardous materials must be properly marked as hazardous.


By selecting Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) shipment in Rollo Ship, you confirm that you understand and comply with all applicable regulations for packaging, labeling, and shipping hazardous materials.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Proper Packaging: Use DOT/USPS-approved containers to prevent leaks, spills, or damage.
  • Correct Labeling: Apply all required hazard labels, markings, and shipping documentation to your package
  • Regulatory Compliance: Follow USPS Publication 52, DOT regulations (49 CFR), and any carrier-specific requirements.
  • Package Inspection: USPS may inspect or reject improperly packaged or labeled hazardous shipments.

Failure to comply with regulations may result in shipment delays, penalties, or legal consequences. If you are unsure about the proper handling of hazardous materials, consult the official USPS guidelines or a qualified shipping expert.


Learn More: USPS Publication 52


By creating a hazmat shipment in Rollo Ship, you acknowledge and accept full responsibility for the safe and compliant shipping of hazardous materials.


What Qualifies as HAZMAT?

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies hazardous materials (HAZMAT) as items that pose a significant risk to health, safety, or property during transportation. For international shipping, these materials are often referred to as "dangerous goods."


Common examples of HAZMAT include:

  • Items containing liquid mercury (e.g., thermometers, barometers, blood pressure equipment)
  • Lithium batteries and electronics containing them (e.g., cell phones, laptops)
  • Aerosols (e.g., hairspray, disinfectants, spray paint)
  • Fragrances (e.g., colognes, perfumes, body sprays)
  • Dry Ice (used for preserving temperature-sensitive goods like food and medicine)
  • Paint, paint thinners, and removers (including wood stains and adhesives)
  • Nail polish and nail polish remover
  • Fuel or fuel-powered equipment (e.g., gas lanterns, camp stoves, model cars, lawn equipment)


This list is not exhaustive—many other items fall under the HAZMAT classification. To determine whether your item is considered hazardous, use the HAZMAT Search Tool on the USPS website. As a shipper, it is your responsibility to ensure all items are correctly classified and handled accordingly.