USPS Tightens Regulations on Cross-Border Small Packages with New Hazardous Material Fees
USPS announced new hazardous material handling rules effective July 12, classifying essential oils, perfumes, and lithium batteries as restricted items. Sellers shipping these items must pay an additional $7.50 handling fee and declare them correctly; non-compliance may result in fines up to $50 per item and possible increases in shipping costs in the future.
What are the key facts?
- 1Effective Date: July 12, 2026
- 2Restricted Categories: Essential oils, perfumes, lithium batteries
- 3Fines: Up to $50 per item
What happened?
Effective July 12, 2026, USPS will implement strict hazardous material handling rules for essential oils, perfumes, and lithium batteries, requiring sellers to declare and pay a $7.50 surcharge, with violators facing substantial fines.
What does this mean for cross-border sellers?
Home, beauty, and electronics sellers must immediately review SKU characteristics, assess whether to switch shipping channels or pre-set surcharges in the system to mitigate fines and return risks.