How to Ship Liquids: All you need to know about USPS, UPS, and FedEx Rules
If you want to ship liquids internationally, you need to know how to do it properly. Shipping liquids like CBD oils, essential oils, makeup, and beauty products is a challenge and should follow the carrier’s rules and regulations. Be sure to review the rules and regulations in our latest guide to see what kind of liquids you can ship.
Can You Ship Liquids?
Yes, in general, you can. However, sending liquids through some of the most common shipping companies such as USPS, FedEx, or UPS can be a bit challenging because of the various regulations and rules. Some couriers do not even transport liquid products, and those that do have so many conditions and requirements to be met. So it's important to understand the regulations regarding the specific liquid you are shipping.
Non-flammable products are usually easy to ship via regular air, ship, or ground carrier services. Flammables may need additional protection but can still be shipped with appropriate packaging and documentation.
There are certain guidelines to keep in mind when planning these shipments:
- You cannot send internationally items such as nail polish, gasoline, alcohol-based perfumes, alcoholic beverages, or poisons through regular mail services; you’ll need a commercial carrier with specialized services for these items.
- You should not ship aerosol cans and similar items by air because they are likely to explode when the pressure changes. The best way to ship aerosols is to use surface mail services instead of air due to pressure concerns.
- Flammable items are allowed for shipment but in limited amounts.
Perishable items such as oil, soup, and beverages must be transported before their expiration dates. If necessary, ensure their safety by packing them with ice or other appropriate materials. - You should use sealed containers and padded packing materials at all times.
Can You Ship Liquids Internationally?
Shipping liquids overseas can be complex due to the different regulations put in place by destination countries. Several countries have strict rules regarding flammable or alcoholic products, often necessitating a special import license.
When shipping liquids, ensure they are properly packed to prevent any leaks. Follow these general steps when shipping liquids internationally:
- Specify the type of liquid you want to ship.
- Check if the destination country requires a license to bring in these items, and if needed, get the right license.
- Select the appropriate packaging to ensure the safety of your shipment.
- Ensure proper packaging of your shipment, including labeling it as "fragile."
- Choose a reliable and cost-effective shipping service.
You should note couriers’ guidelines, whether you are shipping within your country or across borders, because they will help you deliver your products safely and legally. This guide explains the regulations and recommendations for shipping liquids using USPS, UPS, and FedEx in 2024.
Shipping Liquids with USPS
USPS permits the transportation of nonflammable and nonhazardous liquids if they are packed in a watertight receptacle. USPS has specific guidelines for liquids in containers that are more than 4 ounces; the liquids have to be packed in three layers for safety during shipment.
USPS Packaging Requirements
To ship liquids with USPS, the following steps must be followed:
1. Primary Watertight Inner Receptacle: Pack in watertight containers with a positive seal, for example, screw-cap, snap-cap or push-cap containers. These lids should be taped for an extra layer of protection. If more than one delicate primary container is are used, you should wrap them or place them in different layers.
2. Absorbent Material: Put a layer of cellulose wadding, cotton wool or paper tissue between the primary and secondary containers to mop up any seepage.
3. Secondary Watertight Inner Receptacle: You should use a watertight sealed plastic bag, plastic canister or a screw-cap can.
4. Sturdy Outer Packaging: Employ hard shell packaging materials like corrugated fiberboard, wood, metal or plastic to shield the contents from the transport shocks.
USPS Shipping Rates for 2024
USPS provides different services that are appropriate for shipping liquids and these are the Priority Mail and the First-Class Package Service for items that do not exceed 16 ounces. Below are the new rates for 2024:
| Weight | Zone 1 & 2 | Zone 3 | Zone 4 | Zone 5 | Zone 6 | Zone 7 | Zone 8 | Zone 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 oz | $3.35 | $3.40 | $3.45 | $3.55 | $3.65 | $3.80 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 2 oz | $3.35 | $3.40 | $3.45 | $3.55 | $3.65 | $3.80 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 3 oz | $3.35 | $3.40 | $3.45 | $3.55 | $3.65 | $3.80 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 4 oz | $3.35 | $3.40 | $3.45 | $3.55 | $3.65 | $3.80 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 5 oz | $3.80 | $3.85 | $3.90 | $4.00 | $4.10 | $4.25 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| 6 oz | $3.80 | $3.85 | $3.90 | $4.00 | $4.10 | $4.25 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| 7 oz | $3.80 | $3.85 | $3.90 | $4.00 | $4.10 | $4.25 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| 8 oz | $3.80 | $3.85 | $3.90 | $4.00 | $4.10 | $4.25 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| 9 oz | $4.35 | $4.40 | $4.45 | $4.55 | $4.70 | $4.85 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| 10 oz | $4.35 | $4.40 | $4.45 | $4.55 | $4.70 | $4.85 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| 11 oz | $4.35 | $4.40 | $4.45 | $4.55 | $4.70 | $4.85 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| 12 oz | $4.35 | $4.40 | $4.45 | $4.55 | $4.70 | $4.85 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| 13 oz | $5.55 | $5.60 | $5.65 | $5.80 | $6.05 | $6.20 | $6.40 | $6.40 |
| 14 oz | $5.55 | $5.60 | $5.65 | $5.80 | $6.05 | $6.20 | $6.40 | $6.40 |
| 15 oz | $5.55 | $5.60 | $5.65 | $5.80 | $6.05 | $6.20 | $6.40 | $6.40 |
| 15.999 oz | $5.55 | $5.60 | $5.65 | $5.80 | $6.05 | $6.20 | $6.40 | $6.40 |
Shipping Liquids with FedEx
FedEx has detailed procedures for shipping liquids such as using containers that are water tight, using absorbent material and strong outer packaging. Also, there are some special requirements for labeling of some types of liquids.
FedEx Packaging Requirements
FedEx needs a primary leak proof inner container with a positive closure, cushioning material between the primary and secondary containers, a secondary leak proof inner container and strong outer carton. FedEx does not allow shipments of containers with liquids that are more than 8 gallons (32 liters) or 70 pounds for FedEx Ground and SameDay City.
FedEx Shipping Rates for 2024
FedEx has various services for shipping liquids, and the prices are fairly standard for domestic and international shipments. Below are the new rates for 2024:
| Weight | Cost (Domestic) | Cost (International) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 lb | $13.50 | $40.00 |
| Up to 5 lbs | $21.50 | $70.00 |
| Up to 10 lbs | $36.00 | $120.00 |
Shipping Liquids with UPS
UPS also permits the shipment of liquids but the regulations are almost similar to those of FedEx. The packaging of liquid containers should also be properly sealed to avoid any form of leakage.
UPS Packaging Requirements
UPS also mandates the use of closed receptacles that are water tight. There should be a layer of absorbent material between the primary and secondary receptacles to deal with any leakage and the outer packaging should be strong enough to endure the transport process. UPS does not allow any container to be shipped with a volume of more than 8 gallons (32 liters) or 70 pounds for UPS Ground and same-day shipping.
UPS Shipping Rates for 2024
UPS Ground has reasonable prices for the shipment of heavier parcels. Below are the new rates for shipping liquids with UPS in the year 2024:
| Weight | Cost (Domestic) | Cost (International) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 lb | $12.50 | $35.00 |
| Up to 5 lbs | $20.00 | $60.00 |
| Up to 10 lbs | $35.00 | $100.00 |
Shipping liquids entails special attention to the carrier’s rules and regulations as well as packaging standards to avoid penalties. By adhering to the guidelines for USPS, UPS, and FedEx and selecting the right service for your shipment’s size and destination, you can guarantee that your liquids will reach their destination safely and at the least cost possible. It is crucial to pack your products in watertight containers, use absorbent materials, and pack the items in strong outer packaging. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your customers receive a satisfactory shipping experience.
