We’ve already covered the reasons why it’s important to only use USPS boxes for USPS shipping, and to use the correct box for the shipping method you choose. Now let’s take a look at the ins and outs of USPS Flat Rate boxes. When does it make sense to use Flat Rate for shipping? When […]
Free USPS Boxes: To Use or Not to Use?
As an e-commerce seller, you’re always looking for solutions that improve your bottom line. And when sturdy, free, self-sealing shipping boxes are as close as your local U.S. Post Office or online supplier, it may be tempting to take advantage of these resources. However, there are right and wrong ways to use USPS packaging. Here […]
Upcoming 2015 USPS Postage Rate Increase
The U.S. Postal Service will implement new postage rates in 2015 (Date: TBD) for several mail classes. Here is a quick look at what to expect once the changes take effect. Summary of Domestic 2015 USPS Postage Rate Updates First Class letters and postcards. The rate for a 1-ounce First Class letter will remain $0.49, […]
September 2014 Price Reductions to USPS Priority Mail
On September 7, 2014, the USPS will implement a price change for its popular Priority Mail services. Here’s a look at what to expect. Summary Priority Mail Post Office rates are going up, but if you purchase postage online, you will actually see a reduction in Priority Mail rates. The price reductions apply to both Commercial Base […]
New Study Reveals that USPS Offers Significant Cost Savings Over Competition
Do you believe all shipping carriers are equal? Think again! A recent Stamps.com study shows that the USPS has an edge on the competition — and knowing how to leverage these results may help you lower costs and improve your package delivery times. About the Study In September 2013 and January 2014, Stamps.com conducted a […]
Upcoming 2014 USPS Postage Rate Increase
On January 26, 2014 the U.S. Postal Service® will implement new postage rates for several mail classes. Here is a quick look at what to expect for 2014. Summary of 2014 USPS Postage Rate Updates: First Class letters (up to 1 oz.) will increase by three cents to $0.49, with each additional ounce costing an extra […]
Understanding Regional Rate Boxes
When many of us think of shipping rates, we think of package weight first. But did you know that distance can play as major a role? That’s where Regional Rate Boxes come in: a lower-cost alternative to traditional pricing for packages traveling short distances. Regional Rate Boxes were designed for small, dense packages that could […]
USPS Media Mail: Understanding Content and Shipping Restrictions
Shipping books, DVDs and other media? Then, USPS Media Mail is a cost-effective solution small businesses like yours need to know about. What is Media Mail? Known as Book Rate from the pre-digital age (and still commonly referred to Book Rate among booksellers), Media Mail offers low rates to ship media items – such as […]
Understanding USPS Balloon Pricing
When it comes to USPS pricing, size matters. For the most part, heavier packages weigh more. However, certain exceptions exist … and that’s where USPS Balloon Pricing comes in. What is USPS Balloon Pricing? Is your Priority Mail package – Lighter than 20 pounds? – Measure between 84 and 108 inches in combined length and […]
USPS SCAN Forms: How They Work, Benefits & Restrictions
If you’re shipping multiple packages at the same time, using the USPS SCAN Form can streamline the process from both a shipping and customer-service perspective. When using a SCAN form, you’ll automatically create an “acceptance” scan that shows you and your buyer that the package has officially entered the USPS mailstream – which isn’t always […]