USPS Priority Mail – Free Boxes, Sizes and Flat Rate
USPS Priority Mail is a fast and reliable shipping service that has been around since 1913. It is one of the most popular shipping options for businesses and individuals alike. Priority Mail offers free boxes, flat-rate options, and a variety of sizes to choose from. In this article, we will go into detail about USPS Priority Mail, including how to calculate Priority Mail rates, what you can ship with Priority Mail, and why some people might want to avoid this service altogether.
Read: How to Use USPS Flat Rate Boxes for Ecommerce Shipping
Free Boxes
One of the biggest advantages of using Priority Mail is that it offers free boxes. These boxes come in a variety of sizes and can be ordered online or picked up at your local post office. The free boxes are available for both domestic and international shipping. The boxes are sturdy and can withstand the rigors of shipping, ensuring that your items arrive at their destination in good condition.
Flat Rate
Another advantage of using Priority Mail is the flat-rate option. This means that you can ship a box or envelope of any weight to any destination in the United States for a flat rate. The flat-rate boxes come in various sizes, including small, medium, and large. The flat-rate envelopes are also available in two sizes, legal and padded. The flat-rate option is an excellent choice for shipping heavy items or items that need to be delivered quickly.
Box Sizes
Priority Mail offers a variety of sizes to choose from, including small, medium, large, and regional rate boxes. The small box measures 8-11/16″ x 5-7/16″ x 1-3/4″, the medium box measures 11-1/4″ x 8-3/4″ x 6″, and the large box measures 12-1/4″ x 12-1/4″ x 6″. The regional rate boxes are available in two sizes, A and B. The A box measures 10″ x 7″ x 4-3/4″, and the B box measures 12″ x 10-1/4″ x 5″. The regional rate boxes are an excellent choice for shipping items that are heavy but not very large.
How to Calculate Priority Mail Rates
Calculating Priority Mail rates is easy. The rates are based on the weight of the package, the distance it needs to travel, and the type of service you choose. You can use the USPS website to calculate the rates for your package. You will need to enter the weight of the package, the destination zip code, and the type of service you want to use.
What You Can Ship with Priority Mail
Priority Mail can be used to ship a variety of items, including documents, clothing, electronics, and more. However, there are some restrictions on what you can ship with Priority Mail. For example, you cannot ship hazardous materials, firearms, or live animals with Priority Mail. You should check the USPS website for a complete list of items that cannot be shipped with Priority Mail.
Pros and Cons of Using USPS Priority Mail
Pros:
- Fast and reliable shipping service
- Free boxes available
- Flat-rate option available
- Variety of sizes to choose from
- Easy to calculate rates
Cons:
- Rates can be higher than other shipping options for some packages
- Some items cannot be shipped with Priority Mail
Conclusion
USPS Priority Mail is an excellent choice for shipping small to medium-sized packages that need to be delivered quickly. The free boxes, flat-rate option, and variety of sizes make it a convenient and affordable option for many people. However, it may not be the best choice for shipping large or heavy items. If you are unsure whether Priority Mail is the right choice for your package, you should compare the rates and services offered by other shipping companies.
