Can I Ship Candles Through Usps?

Shipping candles through the mail can be convenient and cost-effective for candle makers and sellers looking to reach customers across the United States. The United States Postal Service (USPS) allows candles to be shipped through their services, though there are specific regulations and requirements to follow for safe, compliant, and insurable shipments.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an overview of USPS regulations, packaging requirements, shipping options, and tips for saving money when sending candles through the mail. With the right preparation and understanding of USPS policies, your candle packages can arrive safely at their destinations.

USPS Regulations on Shipping Candles

The USPS considers candles to be hazardous materials due to their flammable nature. Therefore, there are some regulations and restrictions around mailing candles.

According to the USPS guidelines, candles may not be shipped using Parcel Select Ground or Media Mail services. This is because those mail classes do not allow for hazardous materials [1].

Additionally, there are restrictions on mailing wax candles, as the melted wax could damage other packages or USPS equipment. Solid candles that are completely hardened and cooled are permitted for shipping.

Votives, tea lights, jar candles, pillar candles, and tapers are generally acceptable for shipping if properly packaged. However, novelty candles in the shapes of food, animals, etc. are restricted [2].

Fragranced candles are okay to mail as long as they meet all other USPS requirements. Scent intensity and leakage are not factors in their shipping policies.

Overall, candles can be shipped through USPS as long as you follow their guidelines on proper packaging, restrictions by mail class, and prohibited candle types.

Requirements for Shipping Candle Packaging

Proper packaging and labeling is crucial when shipping candles through USPS. According to the USPS guidelines, candles should be packed in a way that prevents shifting and leakage during transport. Here are some key requirements:

• Candles must be placed in leak-proof inner packaging such as a plastic bag or shrink wrap.
• Surround inner packaging with absorbent cushioning material like peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled paper.
• Seal candles securely in a sturdy outer box made of clean corrugated cardboard.
• Ensure there are at least 2 inches of cushioning material between the inner contents and outer box.
• Label the outer packaging with the words “Surface Only” or “Ground Transport Only.”
• Classify the package as “Surface Only” on the shipping label if containing wax candles.

Following proper procedures for packing and labeling candles for shipping can prevent leaks, damage, and delays. Check the USPS regulations closely and test your packaging to ensure candles arrive safely.

Acceptable Candle Types to Ship

When shipping candles through USPS, there are certain types of candle wax that are permitted while others are prohibited. According to USPS regulations, candles made from paraffin, soy, beeswax, and vegetable-based waxes are generally acceptable for shipping.

Paraffin wax candles are the most common and made from petroleum byproducts. Soy wax is made from soybeans and is a clean burning, environmentally friendly option. Beeswax candles are made from beeswax and burn longer than other waxes. Vegetable-based waxes like palm wax contain oils derived from vegetables.

However, USPS prohibits shipping candles made from gel wax or oil-based candles. Gel wax contains mineral oil and high levels of polymer resins that can catch fire at relatively low temperatures. Similarly, oil-based candles also have a lower flash point which makes them prone to igniting during shipping.[1]

When preparing candle shipments for USPS, carefully check that none of the prohibited wax types are used. Stick to paraffin, soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based waxes to avoid issues. Testing the flash point of wax can also help determine if it is safe for shipping.

Size and Weight Restrictions

The USPS has specific size and weight limits when shipping candles to ensure they can be properly handled and delivered. USPS notes that packages may not exceed 108 inches in length and girth combined. Girth is the distance around the thickest part of the package. Length and girth measurements are added together to determine total size.

Individual packages are also limited by weight based on the mail class. First-Class packages may not exceed 13 oz, while Priority Mail allows up to 70 lbs. Oversize or overweight packages may ship via Priority Mail Express at higher rates.

A key consideration with candles is dimensional weight. This calculates a package’s billable weight based on its volume. If a box is large compared to its actual weight, dimensional weight ensures it is charged appropriately. The USPS dimensional weight threshold is one cubic foot.

So a candle shipment needs to meet size, weight, and dimensional limits for USPS acceptance. Understanding these restrictions enables proper packaging and postage.

Using Priority Mail vs First-Class

When deciding how to ship candles through USPS, you’ll need to choose between Priority Mail and First-Class Mail. There are some important differences between these two services in terms of cost and delivery timeline that are worth considering.

Priority Mail is generally the faster option, with an expected delivery time of 1-3 business days to most addresses in the contiguous U.S. It also includes free tracking and insurance up to $100. Rates start at around $8 for small packages under 1 pound. Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes and envelopes can offer especially affordable shipping for candles regardless of distance.

First-Class Mail is more economical, with postage starting at just $0.55 for lighter packages up to 16 ounces. Delivery can take 2-5 business days. First-Class does not include tracking or insurance by default. It is generally recommended for lighter candle packages to nearby destinations where speed is not as critical.

According to ShippingTree, Priority Mail tends to be the best value for heavier candle packages, while First-Class can be very affordable for shipping lighter items short distances. The convenience and speed of Priority Mail also makes it a popular choice. Consider both options and your specific needs to choose the best USPS service.

Insuring Your Candle Shipments

When shipping candles through USPS, it’s important to insure your packages in case they get damaged or lost during transit. USPS provides insurance coverage options to protect the value of your candle shipments.

USPS insurance can cover damage or complete loss of your candle shipment. According to the USPS website[1], their standard shipping insurance covers up to $100 of value at no additional cost when you purchase Priority Mail service. You can add extra insurance for additional coverage beyond that $100.

To insure a candle shipment worth more than $500, you need to purchase USPS insurance at the retail counter when mailing your package[1]. Online insurance purchase is limited to $500 coverage. On Reddit, candle sellers report purchasing extra insurance to protect candle packages worth hundreds of dollars[2].

In the event your insured candle package gets damaged or lost, you can file an insurance claim with USPS to get reimbursed for the cost of the candles, up to the insured value. Just be sure to keep your mailing receipt as proof of insurance.

International Shipping

International shipping of candles through USPS has additional restrictions above domestic shipping. According to the USPS, many countries restrict or prohibit certain items from entering their borders USPS international mailing guidelines explain what you may ship overseas by air and with APO, FPO, and DPO. You may not ship hand sanitizer or flammable.

In particular, international shipment of flammable or combustible materials like candles is heavily regulated. Certain candle types like jar candles, votive candles, tealight candles, and candles containing oils or alcohol may be prohibited from shipping internationally. Always check with the destination country’s customs office before attempting international candle shipments.

Even if a destination country allows candle shipments, additional restrictions may apply on packaging, labeling, safety requirements, size dimensions, and declared value. USPS Priority Mail International is the recommended service for international candle shipping.

To maximize safety and ensure customs clearance, work closely with your recipient and always follow the destination country’s import regulations when shipping candles internationally via USPS.

Getting Discounts on USPS Candle Shipping

Shipping candles through USPS can get expensive, especially if you are shipping a high volume. Here are some tips to help reduce your shipping costs when sending candles through USPS:

Use USPS cubic pricing – USPS offers cubic pricing that bases rates on the size of the package, not the weight. This can result in big savings for lighter candle packages.

Print labels online – Printing USPS labels online through sites like ParcelPath or PayPal ShipNow will give you commercial base pricing, which is lower than retail rates at the Post Office.

Negotiate USPS discounts – Large volume shippers can negotiate custom pricing discounts directly with USPS by setting up a commercial account. Discounts apply to Priority Mail, First-Class Package Service, and Parcel Select.

Use USPS Regional Rate Boxes – For heavy or large candles, use USPS Regional Rate Boxes which offer discounted Priority Mail rates. Rates vary by origin and destination.

Buy postage through a marketplace – Sites like Easyship integrate with USPS but give discounted rates to save on postage costs.

In summary, leveraging USPS commercial pricing, online postage, volume discounts, special box rates, and postage marketplaces can add up to major savings on your candle shipments.

Final Tips and Resources

When shipping candles through USPS, it’s important to follow all regulations and best practices to ensure your packages arrive safely. Here are some final tips to keep in mind:

Use bubble wrap or peanuts to cushion candles and prevent breakage. Wrap each candle individually before placing in the shipping box (Easyship).

Place candles upright in the box and fill empty spaces to limit movement. Seal boxes well with strong tape.

Print the label directly on the box instead of taping on. Reinforce seams and edges with tape. Address labels clearly in big print.

Insure valuable candle packages, especially for international shipments. If required, attach hazard labels and markings.

Take advantage of USPS discounted rates like Cubic Pricing or Commercial rates. Compare Priority vs First Class for best value.

Always check USPS.com for the latest regulations, restricted items lists, and label requirements when mailing candles (Parcel Path).

With proper packaging and an understanding of USPS requirements, you can safely and economically ship candle orders to customers.