How to mail a package to a client or a friend… for this you may choose the United States Postal Service as a reliable and economical option. Shipping a package from the post office looks like a confusing and complicated process.
In reality, it is actually pretty secure and easy if shipping options are known to you and the package is properly prepared by you for shipment.
Let’s check out how to mail a package through USPS, which is enlisted under two sub-topics.
- Choosing a Shipping Method
- Packaging and Sending Shipment
How to Mail a Package : Choosing a Shipping Method
Use Retail Ground as affordable option.
Retail Ground, known earlier as Standard Post, is the cheapest as well as the slowest way to send a package via the USPS. The delivery time fluctuates between 2-8 business days. When time is not a concern, then Retail Ground is good to go. It may take up to 14 business days to deliver. The maximum weight limit is 70 pounds (32 kg).
Use Priority Mail as a flat rate per package.
Priority Mail has delivery time between 1-3 days including free tracking. It offers many “flat rate” boxes. When the package fits in the standard box given by the USPS, then the weight is no limit. There is no hassle of weighing the package to ensure to give more postage. You may send packages up to 70 pounds (32 kg). Boxes and envelopes are provided free.
Priority Mail Flat Rate Box Options
| NAME | TYPE / SIZE | MEASUREMENT |
| Flat Rate Envelope | Cardboard envelope | 12.5 in (32 cm) by 9.5 in (24 cm) |
| Padded Flat Rate Envelope | Waterproof, padded envelope | 12.5 in (32 cm) by 9.5 in (24 cm) |
| Small Flat Rate Box | Small, cardboard box | 8 in (20 cm) x 5 in (13 cm) x 1.75 in (4.4 cm) |
| Medium Flat Rate Box | Medium, cardboard box | 11.25 in (28.6 cm) x 8.75 in (22.2 cm) x 6 in (15 cm) 14 in (36 cm) x 12 in (30 cm) x 3.5 in (8.9 cm). |
| Large Flat Rate Box | Largest flat rate box | 12.25 in (31.1 cm) x 12.25 in (31.1 cm) x 6 in (15 cm) |
Use Express Mail for the fastest delivery time.
The Priority Mail Express is the most expensive option. It is also the fastest. It has a money-back guarantee. It has next day delivery, with 1-2 business days. It offers flat rate boxes. It allows to ship that fits the package weighs less than 70 pounds (32 kg). Express Mail has an expedited service delivers by 3 p.m. the next day. Express Mail provides insurance coverage for up to $100. It has a signature confirmation of delivery with tracking information.
Use First-Class Mail for envelopes weighing less than 13 ounces (370 g).
The First-Class Mail shipping service is an affordable way to send a lightweight package quickly. Packages are delivered in 1-3 business days. USPS offers insurance for loss or damage up to $5,000 for merchandise with additional services like delivery confirmation.
Send CDs, books, & media thru Media Mail.
The USPS Media Mail service is a cost-effective way for shipping sound and video recordings on a disk, printed educational charts, manuscripts, sheet music, medical binders, and computer-readable media safely across the country. Video games and computer hard drives can not be send thru Media Mail. Media Mail has a maximum weight of 70 pounds (32 kg).
How to Mail a Package : Packaging and Sending Shipment
Put the item into a box/envelope to seal it.
Fit item into the box/envelope, add cushioning materials and seal the envelope with tape to closes flat on each side. Secure the flaps on the top and bottom with tape for the box not to open in transit. Ensure box does not have anything loose hanging out of like string, cloth, paper or tape as it may get struck during the sorting process.
Clearly address the package.
Use label stickers or write the address directly onto the package. Ensure to put a return address to include zip codes. Use ink not to smear the address remains legible till its destination. Use a permanent marker while writing the address directly on the package.
Bring package to the post office to measure and weigh it.
To pay for the correct postage you need accurate size and weight measurements. A postal worker post office will weigh and measure the package to determine the postage required. An inspection of the package will also done to confirm its preparedness. While calculating the necessary postage, ensure to ask the cost for confirmation numbers,
Apply the postage to the package.
After the package has been weighed and measured, purchase the required postage. Put postage in a clearly visible area on the package. It will include a bar code to scan during its journey till delivery. Ensure the label is easy to find and scan. Postage is always placed at the top-right corner of an envelope, but vary for packages.
Give package at the retail desk to the postal worker.
The postal worker will confirm package has been properly prepared and the correct postage has been placed on the right side of the package. After scanning the package and processing it for delivery, they will provide a confirmation receipt of the transaction.
Ask for a tracking number.
Tracking information permits to follow the package in transit which is a great for the requirement to check the status of a package and verify it’s delivery. It gives peace of mind to check the status of shipment. It may cost extra for First-Class Mail or Retail Ground. Tracking information comes free with Priority Mail, Priority Express, and First-Class Mail. You can also get a signature confirmation to verify the person who received the package.
Hope, the above article has given you a wide view of the shipment and tracking of a package.