UPS Updates Hemp Shipping Requirements Effective December 11, 2026
Hemp businesses shipping through UPS should prepare for updated documentation requirements taking effect December 11, 2026, as the carrier revises its hemp and hemp-derivatives shipping policy in response to upcoming federal hemp regulatory changes.
Under the updated policy, UPS will require shipments of raw hemp (hemp in plant form) to include laboratory documentation demonstrating compliance with the revised total THC threshold.
UPS specifically states:
"Effective December 11, 2026, contain the Certificate of Analysis/Test Results demonstrating the product contains a total THC concentration (including tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis."
This requirement is significant because it expressly includes THCA in the total THC calculation, rather than relying solely on delta-9 THC concentrations.
UPS also maintains its existing requirements for raw hemp shipments, including pre-approval, a dedicated shipping account, applicable licenses, a signed shipping agreement, and Adult Signature Required service.
Businesses shipping raw hemp through UPS should begin reviewing their testing procedures and shipping documentation to ensure their Certificates of Analysis demonstrate compliance with the new total THC standard.
What This Means for Hemp Businesses
Businesses should also review their existing UPS shipping agreements and confirm that their products and distribution practices meet applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
Businesses should also review their existing UPS shipping agreements and confirm that their products and distribution practices meet applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
As federal hemp regulations continue to evolve, businesses should evaluate how these changes affect not only product compliance but also shipping, distribution, and supply chain operations.
EARTH Law, LLC helps hemp businesses with regulatory compliance, licensing, and navigating changing state and federal hemp laws. Contact our office at 541-632-4367 or email us at info@earthlawllc.com to discuss how these developments may affect your business.
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