USPS Package Types

Having trouble figuring out what USPS package you want to ship in? Well you came to the right place. Check out the questions below, and see if we can help you decide.

 

My item fits in a Large Envelope (aka Flats) is it O.K. to ship?

Panda

Just because it fits in an Large Envelope doesn't quite mean it's ready to ship. The Envelope has to be at least 11-1/2 inches long, but no more than 15 inches long. Also, it needs to be at least 6-1/8th inches high, but no more than 12 inches high. Also, the thickness of the envelope with your item in it can't be thicker thank 3/4 inches. Read the long response to see what services you can ship a Large Envelope with.
 

I saw someone at the post office drop off a box marked Regional Rate, what are those?

Panda

If you always shipped over a retail counter at the Post Office you probably never even heard of these. They're boxes that come in specific sizes and two different weight restriction, and only available to Commercial shippers (guess what? with Panda you are one!!!). Regional A boxes have a 15 pound limit and Regional B boxes have a 20 pound limit. Read t he Long Answer to learn more and find out how to get them for Free!
 

Is there a way I can just charge all my customers a single price? This way I'm never overpaying for shipping if I have to ship an item coast to coast.

Panda

USPS offers a variety of Flat Rate packaging. Each Flat Rate package size will have a fixed price no matter what zone it gets shipped to. The only requirements is that it fits in the box (or envelope) and is under 70 pounds. Super Easy, and the best part is that the Post Office gives them away for Free!
 

I prefer to ship in my own box, are there any restriction on the box I can use?

Panda

Using your own box can sometimes actually be convenient, but there are some restrictions. Just like Flat Rate boxes you can't ship it if it's over 70 pounds (Priority, Priority Express, or Parcel Select / Ground). They also have a maximum 'Length + Girth' of 108 inches (130" Parcel Select / Ground). To learn how to calculate the Girth of a package read our long answer.