Many business owners look for information on how to ship a package via the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The process is simple, and USPS offers many shipping options to match the size, speed and type of material you’re shipping. Learn the particulars of USPS shipping.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship With USPS?
The cost to ship with USPS varies based on a variety of factors.
- Type of package you’re mailing (envelope, box, bubble mailer)
- Package size
- Weight of the goods you’re shipping
- The shipping option you select
- Add-ons, such as signature required and insurance
USPS has online tools to help you calculate your shipping cost so you can price your products and corresponding shipping accordingly.
USPS Shipping Options Offered
Take a look at the various shipping options for mailing a package via USPS. The options for speed, add-ons and content types are available.
- First-class package service: Designed for small packages up to 13 ounces, the price to ship large envelopes and small packages starts at 60 cents.
- Priority Mail: This is the top shipping option from USPS. Domestic deliveries take one to three days based on where you are sending the package, and tracking and insurance are included. You can get free shipping boxes and envelopes at your local post office. And using flat-rate packages can help you save money for shipments that are 70 pounds or less.
- Priority Mail Express: Ensure your packages arrive the next day or within two days, depending on where you’re shipping them. If your package doesn’t arrive the next day when it is guaranteed, you can get your money back. Prices start at $27.25.
- Retail Ground: Packages arrive within two to five business days. The best use case for this shipping option is for oversized packages or packages with no urgency. It comes with tracking. You can ship materials up to 70 pounds with a maximum combined length and width of 130 inches.
- Media Mail: This option is designed for media and educational materials. Media Mail has firm restrictions on the type of media users can send with this shipping option. Media includes books, films 16 millimeters or narrower, sheet music, test materials, video and sound records, play scripts, manuscripts, educational reference charts, computer-readable media and medical loose-leaf pages. Digital drivers and video games do not qualify for media mail. Prices start at $3.49.
8 Steps for Shipping With USPS
Before you get started, you’ll want to know how to mail a package for the best results. Follow these eight steps to prepare your item for shipment and ensure it gets where it needs to go at the appropriate time.
Step 1: Choose the Correct Box
Start with a sturdy box. You want to use a box that is large enough to safely fit the item inside without any poking or stretching of the box’s natural structure. But going too big could mean you pay more to ship the items than is necessary.
Using standard package sizes will also help you avoid nonmachinable charges. But when you need them, using custom shipping boxes is appropriate.
When reusing boxes, ensure all shipping labels and addresses are removed or blacked out to prevent confusion or mishaps with your package delivery.
If the item inside is fragile, be sure to add packing materials and cushioning to protect the item.
Step 2: Properly Package the Item
Gather your packing materials, including bubble wrap and wide packing tape. You want to ensure the contents of your box arrive safely. Before closing the box, ensure that the flaps close without any bulging. Tape the exterior of the box on all seams. Using 2-inch-wide packing tape is the best way to secure the box.
Do not put strings or cords around the exterior of the box. This could get caught in the equipment. And if you’re including a packing slip, put it inside the box for the best results.
Step 3: Fill Out the Shipping Address
If you’ll be printing a mailing label, this can work as your address label as well. But if you need to address the box separately, just know that the format matches that of standard envelopes. If you’re writing the label by hand, be sure to write legibly. Cover the label with a piece of tape to avoid ink smearing or bleeding once placed in the elements.
Step 4: Measure and Weigh Your Package
The dimensions and weight of your package will dictate the cost. Measure all sides of the package carefully. Then weigh the package. Write down the information for reference.
Step 5: Choose Your Shipping Method
Select the best shipping method that balances speed with budget. Look at what you promised your customers. Then, evaluate the shipping options based on the package dimensions and weight that will meet those expectations.
The package’s destination will determine which service will get it there within a given time frame
Step 6: Apply Postage
Print and apply your postage to your package. If you’re using standard printer paper, be sure to cover the address label with tape to prevent ink smearing and bleeding. If you’re using a label printer, those labels generally use smudge-resistant printing methods.
Step 7: Hand Off the Package
You can schedule package pickup at your home or business. Or you can drop off smaller packages at USPS boxes. You must drop off larger packages that won’t fit in the USPS boxes at your local post office.
Step 8: Track Your Shipment
Once your package is logged into the USPS system, you can track your shipment. Ensure the shipment arrives on time and as promised by using the simple USPS tracking system.
Quality, Timely Package Delivery
Many small business shipping solutions are available. USPS is an excellent carrier that offers superb service with a variety of shipping options. Prepare your shipment using the instructions provided to ensure your package arrives in good shape and on time for your customers.
FAQ
Yes, you can use your own package for shipping items via USPS for all services except flat rate.
Priority Mail is the most popular shipping method for USPS. That’s because domestic packages arrive within one to three days, and the postage comes with tracking and insurance.
USPS is generally the cheaper option for standard shipments. But UPS is best when you’re working with an oversized or heavy package.
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