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Why We Only Ship Sharps Mail-Back Systems Within the U.S. and Territories

PureWay’s sharps disposal-by-mail systems rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Updated over 2 months ago

USPS is the only federal carrier authorized to ship UN3291 Regulated Medical Waste through the mail.
As a result, these systems are restricted to the U.S. and its territories.


✅ Where We Can Ship Mail-Back Systems:

  • All 50 U.S. states

  • U.S. territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands

❌ Where We Cannot Return Waste From:

  • Canada

  • Mexico

  • Any international destination

  • APO/FPO/DPO military addresses


⚠️ International Shipping Disclaimer

We can ship products (e.g., sharps containers, PPE, safety supplies) to Canada and Mexico, but:

  • Sharps disposal-by-mail systems cannot be used internationally

  • No regulated waste return shipping outside the U.S.

  • Exception: International return shipments may be permitted only when:

    • Coordinated through a manufacturer recall,

    • Part of a clinical trial, or

    • Managed via a licensed importer/exporter for medical devices (not sharps waste).


🔍 Why This Policy Exists
USPS regulations under 49 CFR 173.197 and Publication 52 limit transport of infectious substances and medical waste to domestic mail routes only. International carriers (FedEx, DHL, etc.) do not offer public-facing medical waste return programs due to regulatory and customs limitations.


For international disposal or returns, contact PureWay Compliance Support to explore compliant options.

📧 info@pureway.com | 📞 877-765-3030 | 🌐 pureway.com

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