🚫 What You Can’t Ship with USPS: Prohibited Items Guide

Some items are simply off-limits when it comes to shipping with USPS — no exceptions. Whether you’re shipping domestically or internationally, it’s important to know what’s allowed and what’s not so your package doesn’t get flagged or returned.

This guide will walk you through the basics of prohibited items, plus where to check official rules.

🔍 Always Check USPS Publication 52 First

Before buying a shipping label — especially for anything that might be considered hazardous or restricted — it’s your responsibility to review the official USPS guidelines.

📚 Visit the USPS Postal Explorer (Publication 52) for packaging and shipment rules.

Whether you’re using Thryft Ship or another platform, you’ll need to follow these regulations for any dangerous, restricted, or perishable items.

🚫 Domestic Prohibited Items

The following items cannot be shipped anywhere in the U.S. via USPS under any circumstances:

• Airbags
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Ammunition
• Explosives
• Gasoline
• Marijuana – including any for medicinal use
  Exception: You can ship marijuana seeds or CBD products derived from hemp that contain less than 0.3% THC and are not intended for cultivation.
• Mercury and items that contain metallic mercury
  This includes antique thermometers, barometers, and old-school blood pressure monitors.
  For more info, check USPS’s mercury classification guide.

🌍 International Prohibited Items

These items are not allowed in any international shipment — even if they’re okay domestically:

• Aerosols
• Airbags
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Ammunition
• Cigarettes — including vapes, e-cigarettes, e-cigars, and any parts
• Dry Ice
• Explosives
• Flammable Liquids
• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
• Gasoline
• Lighters
• Marijuana, including seeds and medicinal forms
• Nail Polish
• Perfumes (if they contain alcohol)
• Poisons

⚠️ Quick Reminder on Hazmat Shipments

If you’re shipping anything that might fall under the “hazardous” or “restricted” category — like perfumes, electronics with lithium batteries, or nail polish — you’ll need to follow USPS’s packaging and service requirements found in Publication 52.

You are responsible for compliance, including proper packaging and selecting the correct USPS service.

💬 Final Thoughts

Thryft Ship makes it easy to ship your items, but knowing the rules ahead of time keeps things smooth and stress-free.

If you’re ever unsure, check USPS Publication 52 or reach out to our team — we’re here to help!