Source: Matt Gush/Shutterstock.com
Shipping liquids isn’t as straightforward as shipping solids, but it can be done. You must follow all the regulations, including marking your boxes correctly, and you may need to use specialized containers. You can ship many liquids through USPS and other well-known companies.
However, some liquids cannot be shipped through the air, and others can only be shipped in smaller quantities. Follow this guide to learn the best method for shipping your liquids and what steps to take.
Shipping Glass Bottles Make It Safe and Easy to Send Different Liquids
Before you get ready to ship out any liquids, take these into consideration:
- USPS, UPS and FedEx allow shipping of liquids.
- You need to use a waterproof container.
- Follow all regulations for your liquid, especially if it is flammable or hazardous.
- Not all countries and states allow direct shipping of alcohol.
What Shipping Companies Allow Liquids?
USPS, FedEx, UPS and DHL all allow some liquids, but each has different requirements. Before shipping any liquids, speak directly with the shipping company you’d like to use.
Several shipping companies won’t ship nail polish, flammable liquids, perfumes or alcohol.
USPS allows shipping of non-hazardous liquids, as long as they are in sealed containers with all contents clearly labeled.
If you want to ship over 4 oz. of liquid, you must use insulating materials, triple-pack your boxes and use tightly sealed containers like shipping glass bottles.
If you’re shipping domestically, USPS is an excellent choice since it doesn’t charge extra for shipping liquids. Its website has a comprehensive list of regulations, and you can also contact your local post office for more information. It also allows the shipment of perishables, as long as they reach their destination before spoiling. Consider using a styrofoam shipping cooler to keep your perishable liquids cool during their journey.
FedEx also allows you to ship liquids and provides a convenient step-by-step packing guide to ensure your shipment doesn’t spill in transit.
A Styrofoam Shipping Cooler Keeps the Liquids Cold While in Transit
You’ll need to pack your shipment in a sealed, waterproof container and then place them in a water-resistant box. Pack the box with padding to protect your liquid containers and ensure they are upright in the box. Once sealed, clearly label the box as fragile and indicate which way is up.
UPS has more stringent regulations than FedEx or USPS and doesn’t allow the shipping of alcohol or hazardous materials. You’ll need to speak with them about shipping liquids, whether or not perishable, to learn more about their requirements.
Source: Jaromir Chalabala/Shutterstock.com
Shipping by Air
If you want to ship liquids by air, you must ensure they aren’t hazardous or flammable because of the air pressure change in planes. Combustible liquids, or ones with a flash point of 100°F or lower, cannot travel in an airplane. You must work with a ground shipment company or ship them by cargo ship. However, check with the company before packing your flammable liquids since many have stringent regulations for these dangerous materials.
Shipping Alcohol
Each company has different regulations for shipping alcohol, and you will also need to check with local authorities. While many states allow the direct shipment of alcohol, several do not, including Oklahoma, Utah and Alabama. Some Muslim countries ban the import of alcohol, while many countries impose hefty custom fees.
Shipping alcohol by air can be challenging, and you’ll often find it easier to ship by ground, particularly domestically.
Can You Ship Liquids Internationally?
You can ship liquids internationally, but you must abide by your country’s regulations and those of the destination country. These regulations can be strict for alcohol, but you may also need to consider the local shipping company’s rules.
Source: Ody_Stocker/Shutterstock.com
Can You Ship Hazardous Liquids?
Shipping hazardous materials is possible but requires specialized containers and labeling. There are certain regulations for containers for industrial materials, which you must follow carefully. Hazardous liquids present more of a challenge since spillage could be dangerous.
You also must follow all labeling regulations. If you’re unsure how to read hazmat placards, check with your shipping company to confirm you’ve correctly labeled your package. There are nine hazmat classes, each covering a different type of hazardous material. For some hazardous materials like explosives, you may need to work with a specialized shipping company.
If you want to ship hazardous liquids across international borders, it’s best to work with an expert who can help ensure you have all the required documentation and packaging to prevent shipping delays.
What You Need to Pack Liquids
Although each shipping company has specific regulations, you’ll need the following supplies to ship liquids:
- Waterproof container
- Insulated container if the liquid is perishable
- Packing peanuts
- Tape
- Stickers indicating fragile products
- Any necessary labels
- Bubble wrap
Get Your Shipping Containers Today
Shipping liquids often require specialized containers. Whether you’re shipping by air, water or ground, Air Sea Containers has containers, interior packaging and packaging and labels for hazardous materials available. Call us today at (866) 596-9448 to ensure you get the correct packaging for your liquids.
We’re happy to answer questions you have about how to ship liquids.
