Prohibitions and restrictions in the domestic and ... - Royal Mail

Prohibitions and restrictions in thedomestic and international postA guide for Royal Mail contract and account customersValid from 14th January 2013

What can I send?To find out if the items you intend to post are prohibited or restricted,please refer to the following A-Z of restricted and prohibited items beforepackaging or posting any items to international or domestic destinations.Safety Data SheetsEuropean regulations require a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to be provided for manyproducts, either before or at the time of first delivery. Section 14 of the EU format SDSindicates that a product is classified as dangerous goods by the presence of a four digit‘UN’ number. Unless specifically permitted (as shown in the A-Z list) dangerous goodsare forbidden in mail.ITEMAerosols (includingdeodorants, body sprays,hair sprays, shaving andremoval creams)CURRENTRULESAllowed throughRoyal Mail Tracked ® ,UK addresses onlyNEW RULES FOR CONTRACT &ACCOUNT CUSTOMERSAerosols for personal grooming or medicinal purposesallowed for UK addresses only* but remain prohibited inRoyal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort Consumer warning markingsSome everyday household items bear consumer warning markings which may or maynot indicate they are classified as dangerous goods. Products bearing the followingconsumer warning markings ARE classified as dangerous goods:Aerosols containingtoxic or flammablecompressed gas (spraypaints, polishes andother flammable ortoxic materials)Allowed throughRoyal Mail Tracked ®UK addresses onlyProhibited in UK and international postBeverages with analcohol content of upto 70% ABVAllowed – UK andinternationalLess than 24% ABV: allowed in international anddomestic post*Between 24% ABV and 70% ABV allowed for UK addressesonly* but are prohibited in Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® ,Business Response, Freepost and all variants ofPacketpost and Packetsort Note: A product bearing the corrosive marking (depicted far right above) is NOT classified as dangerousgoods if the signal word and hazard statement ‘Danger - causes serious eye damage’ applies. Unlessspecifically permitted (as shown in the A-Z list) dangerous goods are forbidden in mail.Beverages with analcohol content above70% ABVProhibited – UK andinternationalProhibited in UK and international postNail varnishAllowed throughRoyal Mail Tracked ®UK addresses onlyAllowed for UK addresses only* but are prohibited in RoyalMail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and allvariants of Packetpost and Packetsort Perfumes andaftershavesLithium batteriesAllowed throughRoyal Mail Tracked ®UK addresses onlyAllowed throughRoyal Mail Tracked ®UK addresses onlyAllowed for UK addresses only* but are prohibited in RoyalMail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and allvariants of Packetpost and Packetsort Prohibited when sent on their own in the domestic andinternational postAllowed in UK and international post when contained in adevice* but are prohibited in Business Response, Freepost ,Packetpost and Packetsort Allowed in UK post when sent with a device* but areprohibited in Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response,Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort RememberSpecial conditions and packagingrules apply when sending certain itemsto UK and international destinations* Volume, quantity, packaging, labelling and service restrictions apply as detailed in the A-Z list.Dangerous Goods [5]

AerosolsAerosols for personal grooming or medicinal purposes(including deodorants, body sprays, hair sprays, shaving andhair removal creams, asthma inhalers, etc.)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Valves must be protected by a cap or other suitable means toprevent inadvertent release of the contents during transport.Aerosols must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging andmust be secured or cushioned to prevent any damage. Volumeper item must not exceed 350ml. No more than two aerosolscan be sent in any one package. An ID8000 label must be applied(see page 40). Asthma inhalers are exempt under IATA SpecialProvision A98. Where the volume per inhaler is 50ml or less noquantity restrictions apply. The sender’s name and return addressmust be clearly visible on the outer packaging. These items mayonly be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Class products paid for viafranking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and 2nd Class AccountMail), Special Delivery paid for via franking or on account, RoyalMail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® . Please note Royal MailTracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and all variantsof Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.All other aerosols(including spray paints, lacquers, solvents, air fresheners,oven cleaners, etc.)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoAlcoholic beverages and liquids(less than 24% ABV)(including beer, ale, cider, wine, fortified wine, champagne)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Wrap in polythene and seal with tape. Surround with absorbentmaterial such as newspaper and sufficient cushioning materialto protect each item from breakage. Volume should not exceed1 litre per item. Mark as ‘FRAGILE’ when sending glass bottles.The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visibleon the outer packaging.Alcoholic beverages and liquids(24% – 70% ABV)(including whisky, vodka and most spirits and liqueurs)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:The items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proofliner, such as a sealed polythene bag. Surround with absorbentmaterial and sufficient cushioning material to protect each itemfrom breakage. Volume must not exceed 1 litre per item. Nomore than two items can be sent in any one package. Mark as‘FRAGILE’ when sending glass bottles. The sender’s name andreturn address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1stand 2nd Class Account Mail) Special Delivery paid for via[6] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [7]

franking or on account, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal MailSameday ® . Please note Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , BusinessResponse, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost andPacketsort are excluded.Alcoholic beverages and liquids(greater than 70% ABV)(including some high strength vodkas and absinthes)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoAmmunition(excluding lead pellets and other airgun and airsoft projectiles)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoAsbestosUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Samples of asbestos may be posted provided the sample is fixedwithin an inert material such as a glue or resin. Surround withcushioning material e.g. bubble wrap. The sender’s name andreturn address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Balloons filled with non-flammable gasUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Must be clearly marked on the outer packaging with the words’BALLOONS FILLED WITH NON-FLAMMABLE GAS’.Batteries - new alkaline, nickel metalhydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCd)(including D, C, 9V, AA, AAA and AAAA alkaline batteries)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging.Surround with cushioning material e.g. bubble wrap. Thesender’s name and return address must be clearly visibleon the outer packaging.Batteries - new and used lithium ionand lithium polymerLithium ion/polymer batteries sent on their own(e.g. lithium batteries sent as replacements)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: No[8] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [9]

Lithium ion/polymer batteries sent with equipment(e.g. rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package isthe minimum number required to power the equipment plustwo spares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh percell or 100Wh per battery. Each cell and battery must be of atype proven to meet the requirements of each test in the UNManual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, section 38.3. Batteries aresubject to these tests irrespective of whether the cells of whichthey are composed have been so tested. Cells and batteries mustbe manufactured under a quality management programme asspecified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transportof Dangerous Goods by Air. Cells or batteries that are defectivefor safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden.Any person preparing or offering cells or batteries with or inequipment for transport must receive adequate instructionon the requirements commensurate with their responsibilities.The consignment must be accompanied with a document withan indication that the package contains lithium ion cells orbatteries; that the package must be handled with care and that aflammability hazard exists if the package is damaged; that specialprocedures must be followed in the event the package is damaged,to include inspection and repacking if necessary; and also atelephone number for additional information. Cells and batteriesmust be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose thecell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protected againstshort circuit, including protection against contact with conductivematerials within the same packaging that could lead to a shortcircuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries must be packedin strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movementwithin the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidentalactivation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied(see page 40). The sender’s name and return address must beclearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid for via franking oron account, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® . Pleasenote Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Lithium ion/polymer batteries contained in equipment(e.g. rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Each package must contain no more than four cells or twobatteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantityof cells or batteries is 5kg per package. Watt-hour rating mustnot exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery. Each cell andbattery must be of a type proven to meet the requirements ofeach test in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, section38.3. Batteries are subject to these tests irrespective of whetherthe cells of which they are composed have been so tested.Cells and batteries must be manufactured under a qualitymanagement programme as specified in the ICAO TechnicalInstructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or thathave been damaged, are forbidden. Any person preparing oroffering cells or batteries with or in equipment for transport[10] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [11]

must receive adequate instruction on the requirementscommensurate with their responsibilities. Cells and batteriesmust be protected against short circuit. The equipmentcontaining cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigidpackaging and must be secured against movement within theouter packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation.The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visibleon the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2ndClass products paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt1st and 2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid forvia franking or on account, Royal Mail Tracked ® , Royal MailSameday ® and Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® . Please noteBusiness Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Batteries - new and used lithium metaland lithium alloyLithium metal/alloy batteries sent on their own(e.g. lithium batteries sent as replacements)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoLithium metal/alloy batteries sent with equipment(e.g. non-rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package isthe minimum number required to power the equipment plus twospares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kgper package. The lithium content must not be more than 1g percell or 2g per battery. Each cell and battery must be of a typeproven to meet the requirements of each test in the UN Manualof Tests and Criteria, Part III, section 38.3. Batteries are subjectto these tests irrespective of whether the cells of which theyare composed have been so tested. Cells and batteries mustbe manufactured under a quality management programme asspecified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transportof Dangerous Goods by Air. Cells or batteries that are defectivefor safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden.Any person preparing or offering cells or batteries with or inequipment for transport must receive adequate instructionon the requirements commensurate with their responsibilities.The consignment must be accompanied with a document withan indication that the package contains lithium metal cells orbatteries; that the package must be handled with care and thata flammability hazard exists if the package is damaged; thatspecial procedures must be followed in the event the package isdamaged, to include inspection and repacking if necessary; andalso a telephone number for additional information. Cells andbatteries must be packed in inner packagings that completelyenclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protectedagainst short circuit, including protection against contact withconductive materials within the same packaging that could leadto a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries mustbe packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured againstmovement within the outer packaging and packed to preventaccidental activation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied(see page 40). The sender’s name and return address must beclearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and[12] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [13]

2nd Class Account Mail) Special Delivery paid for via frankingor on account, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® .Please note Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response,Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Lithium metal/alloy batteries contained in equipment(e.g. non-rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Each package must contain no more than four cells or twobatteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity ofcells or batteries is 5kg per package. The lithium content mustnot be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery. Each cell andbattery must be of a type proven to meet the requirements ofeach test in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, section38.3. Batteries are subject to these tests irrespective of whetherthe cells of which they are composed have been so tested.Cells and batteries must be manufactured under a qualitymanagement programme as specified in the ICAO TechnicalInstructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or thathave been damaged, are forbidden. Any person preparing oroffering cells or batteries with or in equipment for transport mustreceive adequate instruction on the requirements commensuratewith their responsibilities. Cells and batteries must be protectedagainst short circuit.The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed instrong rigid packaging and must be secured against movementwithin the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidentalactivation. The sender’s name and return address must beclearly visible on the outer packaging. These items may only besent using our 1st Class or 2nd Class products paid for viafranking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and 2nd Class AccountMail), Special Delivery paid for via franking or on account, RoyalMail Tracked ® , Royal Mail Sameday ® and Royal Mail TrackedReturns ® . Please note Business Response, Freepost and allvariants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Batteries - new wet, non-spillable(e.g. sealed lead acid batteries, absorbed glass mat andgel cell batteries)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Batteries must comply with Special Provision 238 of the UNRecommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, ModelRegulations (please check with the manufacturer or distributor).No more than one battery in any one package. Maximum weight1.5kg. Item must be protected against short circuit (by theeffective insulation of exposed terminals) and securely packaged.Package must be marked “NOT RESTRICTED” and “SPA67 /SP238”. The sender’s name and return address must be clearlyvisible on the outer packaging.[14] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [15]

XBatteries classified as dangerous goodsand certain used batteriesBatteries that are classified as dangerous goods by the latestedition of the Technical Instructions for Safe Transport ofDangerous Goods by Air published by the International CivilAviation Organization (ICAO) including wet spillable leadacid/lead alkaline batteries (such as car batteries), lithiumbatteries when not sent with or in equipment, damagedbatteries of any type, together with used alkaline, nickelmetal hydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries.UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoBiological substances(Diagnostic specimens including blood and urine. Category B(UN3373) as classified in the latest edition of the TechnicalInstructions for Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Airpublished by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO))UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualifiedmedical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinarysurgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory orinstitution. The total sample volume/mass in any parcel mustnot exceed 50ml/50g. All biological substances must be postedin packaging that complies with Packaging Instruction 650,such as our Safebox product. The sender’s name and returnaddress must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Christmas crackersUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Can only be sent in their made up form in their originalretail packaging.Clinical and medical waste(including contaminated dressings, bandages and needles)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoControlled drugs and narcotics(including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD, opium and amyl nitrate)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoCorrosives(including dyes, acids, corrosive paint and rust removers,caustic soda, mercury and gallium metal)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: No[16] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [17]

Counterfeit currency, bank notes and stamps(including any false instrument, or copy of a false instrument withinthe meaning of section 5 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoDry ice(e.g. UN1845 when used as a coolant for UN3373 or for otherperishable items)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoElectronic items sent with new alkaline,nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or nickelcadmium (NiCd) batteriesUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging.Surround with sufficient cushioning material to protect each itemfrom damage. Wrap each item, including plugs, individually. Placeitem in a rigid container and cushion to avoid movement. Anyequipment sent with batteries or cells must be secured againstmovement within the outer packaging and must be packed toprevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and returnaddress must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Electronic items sent with new and usedlithium metal and lithium alloy batteriesLithium metal/alloy batteries sent with equipmentUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package isthe minimum number required to power the equipment plus twospares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg perpackage. The lithium content must not be more than 1g per cellor 2g per battery. Each cell and battery must be of a type provento meet the requirements of each test in the UN Manual of Testsand Criteria, Part III, section 38.3. Batteries are subject to thesetests irrespective of whether the cells of which they are composedhave been so tested. Cells and batteries must be manufacturedunder a quality management programme as specified in the ICAOTechnical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goodsby Air. Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, orthat have been damaged, are forbidden. Any person preparing oroffering cells or batteries with or in equipment for transport mustreceive adequate instruction on the requirements commensuratewith their responsibilities.The consignment must be accompanied with a document withan indication that the package contains lithium ion cells orbatteries; that the package must be handled with care and thata flammability hazard exists if the package is damaged; thatspecial procedures must be followed in the event the packageis damaged, to include inspection and repacking if necessary;and also a telephone number for additional information.Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packagings thatcompletely enclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must[18] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [19]

e protected against short circuit, including protection againstcontact with conductive materials within the same packaging thatcould lead to a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells orbatteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must besecured against movement within the outer packaging and packedto prevent accidental activation. Lithium battery handling label tobe applied (see page 40). The sender’s name and return addressmust be clearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid for via franking oron account, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® . Pleasenote Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost ® and Packetsort are excluded.Lithium metal/alloy batteries contained in equipmentUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Each package must contain no more than four cells or twobatteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity ofcells or batteries is 5kg per package. The lithium content must notbe more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery. Each cell and batterymust be of a type proven to meet the requirements of each testin the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, section 38.3.Batteries are subject to these tests irrespective of whether thecells of which they are composed have been so tested. Cells andbatteries must be manufactured under a quality managementprogramme as specified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for theSafe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air. Cells or batteries thatare defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, areforbidden. Any person preparing or offering cells or batteries withor in equipment for transport must receive adequate instructionon the requirements commensurate with their responsibilities.Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit.The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed instrong rigid packaging and must be secured against movementwithin the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidentalactivation. The sender’s name and return address must beclearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2ndClass products paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt1st and 2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid forvia franking or on account, Royal Mail Tracked ® , Royal MailSameday ® and Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® . Please noteBusiness Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Electronic items sent with lithium ion andlithium polymer batteriesLithium ion/polymer batteries sent with equipmentUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package isthe minimum number required to power the equipment plus twoper package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cellor 100Wh per battery. Each cell and battery must be of a typeproven to meet the requirements of each test in the UN Manualof Tests and Criteria, Part III, section 38.3. Batteries are subjectto these tests irrespective of whether the cells of which theyare composed have been so tested. Cells and batteries mustbe manufactured under a quality management programme as[20] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [21]

specified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transportof Dangerous Goods by Air. Cells or batteries that are defectivefor safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden.Any person preparing or offering cells or batteries with or inequipment for transport must receive adequate instructionon the requirements commensurate with their responsibilities.The consignment must be accompanied with a document withan indication that the package contains lithium ion cells orbatteries; that the package must be handled with care and thata flammability hazard exists if the package is damaged; thatspecial procedures must be followed in the event the package isdamaged, to include inspection and repacking if necessary; andalso a telephone number for additional information. Cells andbatteries must be packed in inner packagings that completelyenclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protectedagainst short circuit, including protection against contact withconductive materials within the same packaging that could leadto a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries mustbe packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured againstmovement within the outer packaging and packed to preventaccidental activation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied(see page 40). The sender’s name and return address must beclearly visible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid for via frankingor on account, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® .Please note Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response,Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Lithium ion/polymer batteries contained in equipmentUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Each package must contain no more than four cells or twobatteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity ofcells or batteries is 5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must notexceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery. Each cell and batterymust be of a type proven to meet the requirements of each testin the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, section 38.3.Batteries are subject to these tests irrespective of whether thecells of which they are composed have been so tested. Cells andbatteries must be manufactured under a quality managementprogramme as specified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for theSafe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air. Cells or batteries thatare defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, areforbidden. Any person preparing or offering cells or batteries withor in equipment for transport must receive adequate instructionon the requirements commensurate with their responsibilities.Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit.The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed instrong rigid packaging and must be secured against movementwithin the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidentalactivation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearlyvisible on the outer packaging.These items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Classproducts paid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and2nd Class Account Mail), Special Delivery paid for via franking oron account, Royal Mail Tracked ® , Royal Mail Sameday ® and RoyalMail Tracked Returns ® . Please note Business Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.[22] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [23]

XElectronic items containing any batteriesexceeding 100Wh(including some high performance laptop computersand power tools)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoFlammable solids(including magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium,zinc and fire lighters)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoEnvironmental waste(including used batteries and used engine oil)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoFrozen water(including packs of ice)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoExplosives(including fireworks, flares, blasting caps, Christmas cracker snaps)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoFlammable liquids(including petroleum, lighter fluid, certain adhesives, solvent-based paints,wood varnish, enamels and acetones including nail varnish removers; alsosee Alcoholic beverages, Perfumes and aftershaves and Nail varnish)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoGases(including flammable, non-flammable, toxic and compressed gases,gas cylinders for camping stoves, butane, ethane, refills for lighters,fire extinguishers and scuba tanks; also see Aerosols and Lighters)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: No[24] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [25]

Goods made in foreign prisons(except those imported for a non-commercial purpose, of a kindnot manufactured in the UK, or those in transit)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoInfectious substances and pathogens(UN2814 or UN2900) as classified in the latest edition of theTechnical Instructions for Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods byAir published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoGuns for sporting use(Guns intended for sporting purposes - including Section 1 andSection 2 firearms, low-powered air guns and their componentparts - may be sent in compliance with UK law subject to anyapplicable controls on the possession or export of firearms)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Use 1st Class as the minimum service. The sender’s nameand address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Human or animal remains(including ashes)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoLighters(new and unused empty lighters)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Must be new, empty and sent unopened in their original retailpackaging. A sender’s name and return address must be clearlyvisible on the outer packaging.(lighters or refills containing flammable liquid or gas including usedbutane and petrol cigar and cigarette lighters; also see Aerosols,Flammable liquids and gases)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: No[26] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [27]

Liquids over 1 litre(containing liquids not classified as dangerous goods)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Volume per item of any liquid sent internationally should notexceed 1 litre. Some liquids, such as alcohol or paints, have theirown additional restrictions. The items must be securely closed andplaced in a leak-proof liner, such as a sealed polythene bag, so thatany inadvertent leakage is contained within the outer packagingSurround with absorbent material such as newspaper and sufficientcushioning material to protect each item from damage. Mark as“FRAGILE” when sending glass bottles. The sender’s name andaddress must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Live animals and reptiles(including snakes, mice and rodents)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoLive creatures, insects and invertebrates(including bees, caterpillars, cockroaches, crickets, destroyersof noxious pests, earthworms, fish fry and eggs, leeches andother parasites, lugworms, maggots, mealworms, pupae andchrysalides, rag worms, silkworms, spiders and stick insects)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Must be boxed and packaged to protect the creatures, our staffand our customers from harm. Use 1st Class as the minimumservice. Items must be clearly marked ‘URGENT - LIVINGCREATURES - HANDLE WITH CARE’. The sender’s nameand address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.(if classified as dangerous within the Dangerous Wild Animals Act1976, including certain venomous spiders)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoLottery ticketsUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Foreign lottery tickets are prohibited. UK lottery tickets are allowedin the domestic post.[28] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [29]

[34] Dangerous GoodsPerishables(including flowers, fresh fruit, vegetables and frozenor chilled foodstuffs)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:Should be able to withstand a journey of up to 48 hours. Use 1stClass as the minimum service. Must be suitably sealed to preventleakage or tainting of other items such as in sealed vacuum packs.Must be packed in a strong corrugated board box or purposedesigned polystyrene pack. The sender’s name and return addressmust be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Pesticides(including weed killer and any chemical used to kill pests andinsects, such as fly sprays)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoPoisons, toxic liquids, solids or gases(including substances that are liable to cause death or injury ifswallowed or inhaled or by skin contact, such as arsenic, beryllium,cyanide, fluorine, rat poison)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoPrescription medicines and drugs sentfor scientific or medical purposes(non-toxic and non-flammable)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medicalpractitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon,registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution. Themedicines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proofcontainer such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a siftproofcontainer (for solids). Must be tightly packed in strong outerpackaging and must be secured or cushioned to prevent anydamage. The sender’s name and return address must be clearlyvisible on the outer packaging.(toxic, flammable, or toxic and flammable)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: NoFollow these packaging guidelines:May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualifiedmedical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinarysurgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution.Volume/mass per item must not exceed 50ml/50g. No more thaneight items can be sent in any one parcel. The medicines mustbe securely closed and placed in a leak-proof container such asa sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a sift-proof container (forsolids). Must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging and mustbe secured or cushioned to prevent any damage. ID8000 labelmust be applied (see page 40). The sender’s name and returnaddress must be clearly visible on the outer packaging. TheseDangerous Goods [35]

items may only be sent using our 1st Class or 2nd Class productspaid for via franking or on account (VAT exempt 1st and 2ndClass Account Mail), Special Delivery paid for via franking or onaccount, Royal Mail Tracked ® and Royal Mail Sameday ® . Pleasenote Royal Mail Tracked Returns ® , Business Response, Freepost and all variants of Packetpost and Packetsort are excluded.Radioactive material and samplesNot classified as dangerous goods in the latest edition of theTechnical Instructions for the Safe Transport of DangerousGoods by Air published by the International Civil AviationOrganization (ICAO) such as samples of granite rockUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Surround with cushioning material e.g. bubble wrap. Thesender’s name and return address must be clearly visibleon the outer packaging.Classified as dangerous goods in the latest edition of theTechnical Instructions for the Safe Transport of DangerousGoods by Air published by the International Civil AviationOrganization (ICAO) such as luminous dials from aircraftUK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoSharp objects and instruments(including scissors and kitchen knives or utensils)UK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:Wrap heavy cardboard around sharp edges and points, strongenough to ensure that the contents do not pierce the outer packaging.Wrap each item with cushioning material. Place in a suitable outercontainer such as a padded envelope. The sender’s name and returnaddress must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Tickets and related advertisementsfor illegal lotteriesUK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoVaccinesUK destinations: YesInternational destinations: YesFollow these packaging guidelines:May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualifiedmedical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinarysurgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory orinstitution. The vaccines must be securely closed and placedin a leak-proof liner such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids)or a sift-proof container (for solids). Must be tightly packed in[36] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [37]

strong outer packaging and must be secured or cushioned toprevent any damage. The sender’s name and return addressmust be clearly visible on the outer packaging.Waste, dirt, filth or refuse(including household waste)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoWeapons(including Section 5 firearms, CS gas and pepper sprays,flick knives, tasers and stun guns)UK destinations: NoInternational destinations: NoPlease be aware: You are responsible forchecking whether any items you send areprohibited or restricted. Restrictions vary fromcountry to country and you must not sendany item addressed to a country in which theitem is banned. Any item which resembles aprohibited item may be subject to additionalscrutiny which may cause delays. Failure tocomply with these regulations may affect yourability to claim compensation and could resultin prosecution. We reserve the right to refuseany other item banned by law or that in ouropinion may be harmful or dangerous to ourcustomers, employees or the general public.[38] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [39]

Make sure your itemsare labelled correctlyFor packages which need to be labelled with an ID8000 label or a Lithiumbattery handling label please follow the instructions below:Make sure your itemsare packaged correctlyFor items which are not subject to special packaging guidelines,we recommend that you follow these general packaging guidelinesto ensure they are always properly packed and delivered safely.ID8000, Consumer commodityPermitted in UK Domestic Mail OnlyExempt fromrequirements fordangerous goodstransport document(shipper’s declarationor dangerous goods note),air transport acceptancecheck and notification to pilot incommand (NOTOC). Overpackingby the sender not permitted.Minimum dimension 99mmMedicinesPerfume/AftershaveNail VarnishToiletry ormedicinal aerosolsMinimum dimension 139mmConsumer Commodity in UK Maillabel (ID8000)• Label must be 99 x 139mm in size.• Tick the relevant box accordingto the contents of the package.If sending multiple items, tick allthe boxes that apply.• Apply the label securely and visiblyto the outer packaging.Lithium battery handling label• Label must be 120 x 110mm(large packages) or 74 x 105mm(on packages which are too smallto bear larger labels) in size.• Write or print the word ‘metal’ or ‘ion’in the space after Lithium to indicatethe type of battery contained withinthe package.• Include a contact telephone number.• Apply the label securely and visiblyto your outer packaging.1 Use padded envelopes for sharp edges or odd shapes to prevent the itemscutting through the outer packaging.2 Use an outer carton strong enough for the weight of the contents whichis made of strong cardboard.3 Mark the parcel FRAGILE or PERISHABLE, if necessary.4 Make sure fragile items do not touch each other or the sides of the outercarton. Pack with bubble wrap, polystyrene chips or crushed paper to adepth of at least 5cm around each item.5 Write the sender’s name and address clearly on the outer packaging sowe can return the item if it is undelivered.6 Seal the parcel securely using strong tape along all the openings.7 Flatten any sharp ends of staples and cover with tape.8 If you re-use cardboard boxes or any other container which was previouslyused to transport items, please ensure that these boxes/containers havenot been weakened so that contents could get damaged. This would affectany compensation claim.9 Consider using reinforced corners if the contents of the parcel are heavy.10 For guidelines and examples of items that need to be wrapped and packedmore carefully, please see www.royalmail.com/restrictedgoods[40] Dangerous Goods Dangerous Goods [41]

International postSpecific country restrictions apply to all international destinations, whichyou should check before posting any item outside the UK. We cannotaccept responsibility for loss or damage to items if they are prohibitedin the country you post them to.You should also be aware that certain designated postal administrationsand air operators will not accept lithium batteries, or any items containinglithium batteries, as shown in the table below:Postal administrations/countries* Air operators* Countries served by air operatorsGermanySri Lankan Sri LankaItalyQatar AirwaysTurkish AirlinesFinn AirBangladeshBritish IOTChinaHong KongIndonesiaIranJapanMacauMaldivesPhilippinesSaudi ArabiaSeychellesSingaporeSouth KoreaTanzaniaUAEVietnamBelarusRussian FederationTurkeyTurkish CyprusFinland* This list is updated from time to time to reflect the latest transport legislation and advice.For the most up-to-date list please visit the international pages on our web site.IndexAerosols 06Alcoholic beverages and liquids 07Ammunition 08Asbestos 08Balloons filled withnon-flammable gas 09Batteries 09Biological substances 16Christmas crackers 17Clinical and medical waste 17Controlled drugs and narcotics 17Corrosives 17Counterfeit currency, bank notesand stamps 18Dry ice 18Electronic items 18Environmental waste 24Explosives 24Flammable liquids 24Flammable solids 25Frozen water 25Gases 25Goods made in foreign prisons 26Guns for sporting use 26Human or animal remains 26Infectious substances and pathogens 27Lighters 27Liquids over 1 litre 28Live animals and reptiles 28Live creatures, insectsand invertebrates 29Lottery tickets 29Magnetised material 30Matches (including safety matches) 30Nail varnish and polish 31Obscene publications and pornography 31Oxidising materials andorganic peroxides 32Paints, wood varnishes and enamels -solvent-based 32Paints, wood stains and enamels -water-based 32Perfume and aftershave 33Perishables 34Pesticides 34Poisons, toxic liquids, solids or gases 34Prescription medicines and drugssent for scientific or medical purposes 35Radioactive material and samples 36Sharp objects and instruments 37Tickets and related advertisementsfor illegal lotteries 37Vaccines 37Waste, dirt, filth or refuse 38Weapons 38[42] Dangerous GoodsDangerous Goods [43]

To help you...Royal Mail can arrange for alternative formatsof this booklet to be sent to you in:• Large print• Braille• Audio CD• Audio CassetteTo obtain a free copy call the Business Centre on08457 950 950If you are deaf or hearing impaired we offer aTextphone service on08456 000 606Alternatively, please visitwww.royalmail.com/prohibitedgoodsorwww.royalmail.com/restrictedgoodswhich have been designed with all ourcustomers in mind.Royal Mail, the Cruciform and the colour red are registered trademarks of Royal Mail Group Ltd. Dangerous GoodsBooklet (business). © Royal Mail Group Ltd 2013. All rights reserved. Royal Mail Group Ltd registered in Englandand Wales, number 4138203. Registered office 100 Victoria Embankment, London EC4Y 0HQ.RMDG3