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Packaging

Examples of Completed Packaging

All hazardous materials must be packaged in United Nations Performance Oriented Packaging (UN POP) except when non-specification packaging is authorized by Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). All packaging must meet the requirements set out in 49 CFR 173.24 and 49 CFR 173.24a. Packaging that is not in new or "like new" condition will not be accepted. In addition, the following requirements apply:

  • Fiberboard non-specification packaging and outer packaging must meet the following requirements:
    • For packages weighing up to 20 lbs., the minimum requirements are a 200-lb. bursting test or 32-edge crush test package.
    • For packages weighing 21-50 lbs., the minimum requirements are a 250-lb. bursting test or 44-edge crush test package.
    • For packages weighing 51-70 lbs., the minimum requirements are a 275-lb. bursting test or 55-edge crush test package.
  • All containers with friction-fitted lids must have a retaining ring around the lid, or:
    • Six lid clips (for gallon containers)
    • Five lid clips (for quart containers)
    • Four lid clips (for pint containers)
  • Hazardous materials cannot be shipped in FedEx® packaging.
  • When required, all Class 2 cylinders must be placed inside an overpack (outer package) marked either "Overpack" or, if required by 49 CFR 173.301, “Inside packages comply with prescribed specifications.”
  • Hazardous materials cannot be banded, strapped or taped to form a bundle.
  • FedEx Ground does not accept pails or drums more than 8 gallons (32 liters). All pails or drums must be UN POP. We will accept authorized pails or drums as single packaging.
  • We will accept up to three different hazardous materials inside one overpack provided the materials are compatible. The materials must be packaged separately then placed in one outer package.
  • We do not accept cryogenic liquids unless properly prepared and packaged under exception 49 CFR 173.320. FedEx Ground does not accept flammable (Class 2.1) cryogenic liquids.
  • FedEx Ground does not accept radioactive fissile material unless properly prepared and packaged under exception 49 CFR 173.453.
  • Combination packaging containing hazardous materials cannot exceed the inner-container requirements. The maximum size, number and total weight of glass, plastic or metal inner containers allowed in any one package are listed below:

    Type of Container Max. Unit Size Max. Number of Units Max. Volume per Carton Max. Net Weight per Package
    Glass 1/2 liter 12* 3 liters (12 pints) Net 25 lbs.
      1 liter (1 quart) 6 6 liters (6 quarts) Net 25 lbs.
      2 liters (1/2 gallon) 4 8 liters (2 gallons) Net 25 lbs.
      4 liters (1 gallon) 2 8 liters (2 gallons) Net 25 lbs.
    Plastic 8 liters (2 gallons) 4* 16 liters (2 gallons) Net 50 lbs.
    Metal 4 liters (1 gallon) 4* 16 liters (4 gallons) Net 50 lbs.

    *For glass unit sizes of less than 1/2 liter (1 pint), and plastic or metal unit sizes of less than 4 liters (1 gallon), the combination packaging cannot exceed the maximum volume or weight per inner carton or inner package.


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Examples of Completed Packaging

All packages must have a properly prepared hazardous materials shipping form OP-900 attached on the top of the outer package next to the address label, and must include “To” (recipient) and “From” (shipper) addresses. The following illustrations are for information purposes only.


Example No. 1: Flammable Liquid (Class 3)




Example No. 2: Toxic (Class 6.1)

Option 1: DOT Exemption                                                                               Option 2: 49 CFR 173.13

                                                     

Note: For either option, you do not need to affix the DOT diamond-shaped hazard label.


Example No. 3: Flammable Gas (Class 2.1)



Note: All Class 2 materials (except Lighters, UN 1057) must be properly overpacked (packed inside an outer container).


Example No. 4: Authorized Single Packaging

Option 1: Overpacked (49 CFR 173.25)                                                              Option 2: Single (Stand-alone)




Example No. 5: ORM-D Shipments



Notes: 
  • ORM-D shipments do not require hazardous materials shipping form OP-900 or hazardous materials certification form OP-950.
  • All outer non-specification packaging (e.g., overpacks and ORM-D packaging) must display a Minimum 200 lb. Burst Strength Test seal or 32-Edge Crush Test (ECT) seal.


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