Special Handling  
Special mail requires special care.
Choose Special Handling when you are sending unusual mail and packages that require extra care.

Special Handling Service is for unusual items that need to be handled specially through the mail – like live poultry and bees. For these items, Special Handling is required. Your package will receive preferential handling to the extent that it’s practical in dispatch and transportation.
 
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Ordinary packages containing breakable or fragile items do not need special handling if they are packed with adequate cushioning, and the word “FRAGILE” is marked clearly on the outside.

Valuables and irreplaceable items should be sent using Registered Mail™.

Learn about detailed Feature and Fees for Special Handling.
 
You can use Special Handling with:
First-Class Mail® Letters, envelopes, and small packages weighing 13 ounces or less.

Priority Mail® Cost-effective delivery in 2-3 days to most locations.

Package Services Send small and large packages, envelopes, and tubes. Includes Parcel Post®, Media Mail, and Library Mail.


You can combine Special Handling with the following Extra Services:
Parcel Airlift Service (PAL) Have your package sent by air to or from a military base outside the 48 contiguous states.

Delivery Confirmation™ Provides date and time of delivery or attempted delivery. Must meet the ¾” thickness requirement when combined with Package Services.

Signature Confirmation™ Provides date and time of delivery or attempted delivery, the name of the person who signed for the item, plus signature proof of delivery upon request.

Insured Mail Insurance against loss or damage for merchandise and gifts.

Collect on Delivery (COD) Allows the postage and price of an item to be collected from the recipient by the USPS and given to the mailer.

Return Receipt for Merchandise Provides a postcard with the date of delivery and recipient's signature.


Mailing Live Animals
Anyone shipping live animals must call the District Expedited Services Office (ESO), which coordinates and clears such shipments. The ESO will tell you where to drop off your “live” shipment and notify the accepting office.

The availability of a drop-off site may vary depending on transportation or the retail site’s ability to handle large volumes. The ESO tries to make acceptance points for live animal shipments widely available and ensure protection of the lives while in the postal system.

With the September 25, 2006 inception of live animal mail transport on the FedEx Network, the number of retail outlets available for live animal acceptance increased significantly. Transportation on commercial carriers continues to be available. For more FedEx network details:

FedEx Lives (xls)

Resources:

Contact the Expedited Services Office nearest you.

Phone Number (xls)

Find the destinations available per origin for shipments of live animals via commercial air.

Air Transportation Availability (xls)


Related Publications
A Customer's Guide to Mailing Read our Customer's Guide to Mailing within the U.S.

Special Handling, Domestic Mail Manual