USPS permits domestic mailing of lithium batteries and devices containing them, subject to specific regulations.

USPS has requirements for shipping lithium batteries mainly due to:

    Fire and Explosion Risk: Lithium batteries can catch fire or explode if damaged or short-circuited, especially during air transport.
    Short Circuit Risk: If battery terminals contact conductive materials, it may cause a short circuit and lead to a fire.
    Damage Risk: Batteries can be damaged during transport if not properly packaged, leading to leakage or fire.
    Air Transport Regulations: There are strict regulations for air transport of lithium batteries to ensure flight safety.
    These requirements are in place to ensure safer shipping of lithium batteries.

    USPS’s requirements for transporting lithium batteries are in place to protect public safety, minimize the risk of fires or explosions, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. These measures help ensure that lithium batteries are shipped safely while preventing accidents that could endanger people, property, and aircraft.

Category	Surface Transportation	Air Transportation
Installed/Packed Batteries	Lithium cells/batteries installed in or packed with equipment may be mailed.	Lithium cells/batteries installed in or packed with equipment may be mailed.
Standalone Batteries	Individual lithium cells/batteries mailable in limited quantities.	Individual batteries prohibited via air transport.
Quantity & Energy Limits	Max 4 cells or 2 batteries per mailpiece; lithium ≤1 g/cell, ≤2 g/battery; ≤20 Wh/cell, ≤100 Wh/battery.	Same quantity & energy limits apply.
Packaging Requirements	Must comply with 49 CFR 173.185: rigid, sealed, and large enough for label.	Must comply with 49 CFR 173.185: rigid, sealed, and large enough for label.
Marking Requirements	“Lithium Battery” mark required on address side; DOT-approved label optional.	“Lithium Battery” mark required on address side; DOT-approved label optional.

Which electronic devices contain lithium batteries?

Common electronic devices that contain lithium batteries include:

Category	Electronic Devices
Mobile Devices	Smartphones; Tablets; E-Readers
Computing	Laptops; External Hard Drives / SSDs
Wearables & VR	Smartwatches; Fitness Trackers; VR Headsets
Audio	Wireless Earbuds / Headphones; Portable Speakers
Imaging	Digital Cameras / Camcorders
Portable Power	Power Banks
Gaming	Handheld Gaming Consoles
Drones	Drones
Smoking & Vaping	E-Cigarettes / Vaporizers
Personal Care	Electric Shavers; Electric Toothbrushes
Medical	Portable Medical Devices (e.g., pacemakers, hearing aids)
Smart Home	Smart Doorbells; Smart Locks; Other Smart Home Controllers
Cleaning Tools	Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
Power Tools	Cordless Drills; Electric Screwdrivers; Other Cordless Power Tools
Electric Vehicles	E-bikes; E-scooters; Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Our recommendations

1.Verify UN 38.3 Testing: Retain battery test reports to demonstrate compliance.
2.Use Quality Materials: Employ foam inserts or dividers to isolate batteries.
3.Label Clearly: When in doubt, apply the standard “Lithium Battery” handling mark on the address side.
4.Consult USPS Resources: Refer to the USPS FAQ “Can I Ship Lithium Batteries?” for updates and clarifications

For other questions about lithium batteries, please watch the video