How to Mail a Package with USPS

Do you want to know how to mail a package with USPS? It has always been a common practice to send packages through the mail.

The United States Postal Service provides a convenient way to send packages. It could be a gift to a loved one or an order that was placed by a customer.

Let’s just say they’ve been delivering 48% of the world’s mail. Amazing right?

Through these deliveries, they get an annual operating revenue of more than $71 billion. Let’s find out how to mail a package with USPS, and how much it costs.

How to Mail a Package with USPS

If you want to know how to mail a package with USPS, then you should follow the steps below:

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start mailing your package, you need to have all the necessary supplies.

You’ll need:

i. A Sturdy Box or Envelope

Choose a container that fits the size of the item you’re sending. A corrugated cardboard box is needed for larger or delicate items.

However, padded envelopes are great for smaller objects. USPS also has flat-rate boxes and envelopes if you prefer using them.

ii Packaging Materials

Protect your item by using bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper. This will provide the items with some level of cushioning inside the box.

Also, use strong packing tape to seal the package to prevent it from opening during transit. Make sure you have enough materials to fill any empty spaces.

iii. Address Label

Prepare a label with the recipient’s address and your address. Write this address legibly or use a printed label.

If your item is fragile, you’ll need to write additional information on the package, such as “Fragile” or “Handle with Care.”

Remember to use a permanent marker while writing the addresses and zip codes on the package.

2. Prepare Your Package

It’s time to load your item now that you have your supplies ready. Wrap fragile things in bubble wrap or tissue paper if your box contains any.

After that, place them in the middle of the box, away from the sides. Close up any openings in the box with packaging material.

When you’re done, tape all sides and seams of the box with packing tape. Check to see if anything rattles inside by giving it a little shake.

Attach the address label firmly to the largest side of the package. Ensure the recipient’s address is visible and accurate.

3. Chose a Shipping Service

USPS offers various shipping options to suit different needs and budgets. You can opt for Priority Mail because they provide free tracking and insurance coverage.

There’s also First-Class Mail for lightweight packages. However, before choosing your courier service, there are a few things you consider.

The price of shipping is one of them.

If you want your package delivered on time, don’t just consider the shipping expenses. The box’s dimensions and weight are other factors you should consider.

4. Visit Your Local Post Office

It’s time to head to your nearest post office with your package. When you get to the post office, join the line for sending packages at the counter.

If your package contains fragile, or hazardous items, inform the postal worker so they can handle it carefully.

They will weigh the package and calculate the postage cost.

You can pay with cash, a credit/debit card, or any other accepted way after the postage cost has been calculated.

5. Tracking and Delivery

The tracking number on the receipt can be used to follow the progress of your delivery after it has been processed.

You can input your tracking number on the USPS website.

This will show you the package’s location and anticipated delivery date.

However, you can get more comprehensive tracking information with services like Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail

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How Much Does USPS Shipping Cost?

The price of shipping a package with USPS is $9.35.

This price depends on the service level, the weight of your package, and where you are sending your package to.

Let’s find the prices of some of the service levels at USPS:

1. First-Class Package Service

This is used for lightweight packages (up to 15.999 ounces).

The cost starts at $3.80 for packages under 4 ounces and increases with weight.

2. Priority Mail Express

This is USPS’s fastest shipping option. It offers overnight delivery to most U.S. addresses.

Pricing varies depending on package weight, dimensions, and destination, with rates starting around $26.35.

3. Parcel Select Ground

This is an economical option for larger and heavier packages.

The cost is based on package weight and distance, with prices starting around $7.16 for local shipments.

4. Media Mail

This service is for shipping educational materials, books, and other media.

Although it is quite affordable, the weight of your package determines the cost. The price can start around $2.89 for a 1-pound package.

5. Flat Rate Shipping

USPS offers flat-rate boxes for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services.

The cost is fixed regardless of the weight or distance, which can make it cost-effective for heavy items or long distances.

6. International Shipping

USPS provides various international shipping options, and costs can vary based on the destination country, package weight, and service level chosen.

Prices can start around $15 for smaller international packages.

How Long Does it Take for USPS to Deliver Mail?

Your service level will affect how quickly USPS delivers your mail. Meanwhile, your package will arrive in three to four days if you choose Standard Mail.

Priority Express Mail takes one to two days to deliver your package, while Priority Mail takes one to three days.

Delivery through Retail Ground takes 2–8 business days.

This option is for businesses that wish to transport bulkier goods that weigh more than the limits of Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express.

The Ground Delivery service is a cost-effective choice. For News Media, it takes 2 to 8 business days for delivery.

However, for packages weighing up to 70 pounds, USPS Media Mail helps to transmit media and other instructional materials.

What are the Tips for Shipping a Package with USPS?

Shipping a package with USPS can be quite easy.

Here are some tips to help you out:

1. The Service Level

There’s a need to pick the right USPS service based on your package’s weight dimensions and destination.

You can choose from Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Media Mail, Priority Mail Express, and other options.

For instance, Priority Mail Express is the fastest delivery option offered by USPS. This makes it the best option if you are delivering a time-sensitive item.

2. Customs Declaration (for International Shipments)

If you are sending a package internationally, you’ll need to fill out a customs declaration form.

Provide accurate information about the contents, their value, and their purpose. This form helps customs authorities assess import duties and taxes.

3. Weigh and Measure

Accurately weigh your package using a reliable scale. Measure the dimensions (length, width, height) of the package.

These details are essential for calculating postage costs.

4. Calculate Postage

Visit the USPS website or use their postage calculator to determine the cost of shipping.

Consider factors like the service level, package weight, dimensions, and destination. Once you’ve calculated the postage, you can buy postage online.

This could be through the USPS website, at a local post office, or through a self-service kiosk. For online purchases, you can print labels and postage from home.

5. Drop-off or Schedule Pickup

If you’re using a service that offers package pickup (e.g., Priority Mail Express), schedule a pickup time online.

Otherwise, drop off your package at a local post office, USPS collection box, or a retail partner location.

Be aware of the estimated delivery time for the selected service. USPS provides estimated delivery windows for each service based on the destination.

Now, you have known how to mail a package with USPS. Remember to take advantage of online tracking to keep an eye on your package’s journey.

How to Mail a Package with USPS