Can I Mail a Vape Through USPS?

If you are a vaper and need to send a vape through the mail, you may be wondering if it’s possible to use the United States Postal Service (USPS) to do so. Unfortunately, as of October 21, 2021, USPS no longer allows individuals and small businesses to send vapes and electronic cigarettes through the mail, as reported by Shipping School. This is because of the USPS Vape Mail Ban that was finalized earlier this year.

The USPS Vape Mail Ban is a rule that prohibits the shipping and delivery of vaping products through the US mail. This new rule applies to both nicotine and cannabis products and is now in full effect, according to Peak Supply Co.. The ban is required by the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, a federal law that took effect recently. The act aims to prevent minors from accessing vaping products by restricting their online sale and delivery.

While USPS is no longer an option for mailing vapes, there are still other shipping options available. Private shipping companies such as FedEx and UPS still allow the shipment of vaping products, but they have their own set of regulations and requirements. It’s important to check with the shipping company before mailing any vaping products to ensure that you are following their guidelines and regulations.

Understanding Vaping Devices

Vaping devices, also known as electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes, are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid solution (often called e-juice or vape juice) to create an aerosol that is inhaled by the user. Vaping devices have become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional tobacco products. If you are wondering whether you can mail a vape through USPS, it is important to first understand the components and types of vaping devices.

Components of a Vape

A typical vaping device consists of the following components:

• Battery: The battery powers the device and is rechargeable.
• Tank: The tank holds the e-juice and is responsible for delivering the liquid to the heating element.
• Heating element: The heating element, also known as the coil, heats the e-juice to create the aerosol.
• Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where the user inhales the aerosol.

Types of Vaping Devices

There are many different types of vaping devices available on the market, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Some of the most common types of vaping devices include:

• Cigalikes: Cigalikes are small, disposable devices that resemble traditional cigarettes.
• Vape pens: Vape pens are larger than cigalikes and often have refillable tanks.
• Pod systems: Pod systems are compact devices that use pre-filled pods instead of refillable tanks.
• Mods: Mods are larger, more powerful devices that can be customized with different tanks, coils, and other components.

It is important to note that the USPS has recently implemented a ban on shipping vaping products through the mail. While it may still be possible to ship vaping devices through other carriers, it is important to check with the carrier’s policies and regulations before attempting to do so.

USPS Mailing Regulations

If you’re wondering whether you can mail a vape through USPS, it’s important to understand the mailing regulations of the United States Postal Service. Here are some general mailing policies and specific policies for mailing vapes:

General Mailing Policies

The USPS has a list of items that are prohibited from being mailed. These items include explosives, flammable materials, and controlled substances. It’s important to note that vapes fall under the category of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), which are generally nonmailable matter. This means that you cannot mail vapes through USPS.

Specific Policies for Mailing Vapes

As of October 2021, USPS no longer allows individuals and small businesses to send vapes and electronic cigarettes through the mail. This change is required by the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, a federal law that recently took effect. The law prohibits the mailing of ENDS, which includes vape pens, e-cigarettes, e-liquid pods, and other electronic nicotine delivery systems.

It’s important to note that this policy applies to all types of vapes, regardless of whether they contain nicotine or not. This means that even if you’re trying to mail a CBD vape pen, you cannot do so through USPS.

If you’re caught trying to mail vapes through USPS, your package may be seized and you may face legal consequences. It’s best to avoid attempting to mail vapes through USPS and to find alternative shipping methods.

Alternatives to USPS for Mailing Vapes

If you’re looking to mail a vape, you may be wondering what your options are now that USPS has banned the shipment of vaping products. Luckily, there are still a few alternatives available to you.

Private Shipping Carriers

One option is to use a private shipping carrier such as UPS or FedEx. However, it’s important to note that both of these carriers have also deemed vape products as prohibited items. So, while it may be possible to ship a vape through these carriers, it’s important to check their policies and regulations first.

Vape-Specific Shipping Services

Another alternative is to use a vape-specific shipping service. These services are designed specifically for the shipping of vaping products and are often able to ship to locations that USPS, UPS, and FedEx cannot. Some popular vape shipping services include Vape-Box and VaporDNA.

In-Person Delivery

If you’re not comfortable with the idea of shipping your vape through the mail, another option is to arrange for an in-person delivery. This could involve meeting up with the buyer or seller in person, or using a local courier service to deliver the product.

Regardless of which alternative you choose, it’s important to ensure that you’re following all applicable laws and regulations. Be sure to research the regulations in your area, as well as any regulations that may apply to the shipping carrier or service you choose.

Safety Precautions for Mailing Vapes

When mailing vapes, it is important to take certain safety precautions to ensure that the package arrives at its destination safely and without any issues. Here are some tips to help you safely mail your vape products:

Packaging Tips

When packaging your vape products, make sure to use a sturdy and durable box that can withstand the rigors of shipping. A box made of corrugated cardboard is a good option as it provides extra protection for your items. Additionally, make sure that the box is the right size for your items. A box that is too big can cause your items to move around during shipping, which can lead to damage.

Inside the box, use bubble wrap or packing peanuts to cushion your items and prevent them from moving around. This will help protect your items from damage during shipping. If you are shipping e-liquid, make sure to seal the bottle tightly and place it in a plastic bag to prevent leaks.

Labeling Recommendations

When mailing vapes, it is important to properly label your package. This will help ensure that your package is delivered to the correct address and that it complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

Make sure to include the recipient’s name and address on the package, as well as your own return address. Additionally, if you are shipping e-liquid, make sure to label the package as containing hazardous materials. You can find more information on how to properly label your package on the USPS website.

By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure that your vape products arrive at their destination safely and without any issues.

Legal Consequences of Mailing Vapes Improperly

If you attempt to mail a vape through USPS improperly, you may face legal consequences. Since October 2021, USPS no longer allows individuals and small businesses to send vapes and electronic cigarettes through the mail. The change is due to the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, a federal law that took effect recently.

If you violate this law and attempt to mail a vape through USPS, you may face fines and other legal consequences. The severity of the consequences will depend on the circumstances of the violation, such as the number of vapes mailed and the intent behind the shipment.

It’s important to note that the law applies to all vapes and electronic cigarettes, including their liquids, parts, components, and accessories. This means that you cannot mail any part of a vape or electronic cigarette through USPS, even if it’s not the actual device itself.

To avoid legal consequences, it’s best to find alternative shipping methods for your vapes and electronic cigarettes. Some private shipping companies may still allow you to ship these items, but it’s important to check their policies beforehand to ensure that you’re not violating any laws or regulations.

In summary, attempting to mail a vape through USPS improperly can result in legal consequences, including fines and other penalties. It’s best to find alternative shipping methods for your vapes and electronic cigarettes to avoid violating any laws or regulations.