"If It Fits It Ships"- Benefits of USPS Flat Rate Service
The United States Postal Service or USPS is a premium service for delivering packages around the United States. It is beneficial for shipping packages efficiently, especially for eCommerce businesses.
The phrase "if it fits, it ships" means that if the weight of your package fits under a certain amount, it is eligible for shipping under the USPS Flat rate service.
Benefits of USPS Flat Rate Shipping for eCommerce Businesses
The USPS Priority Flat Rate shipping allows you to ship packages under 1-3 days across the U.S. for a single flat rate, regardless of weight. As long as your package weighs less than 70 lbs, you can take advantage of this affordable shipping option.
What is USPS Flat Rate Shipping?
With USPS Flat Rate shipping, you pay a fixed rate based on the size of your package, not the weight. You must use USPS-provided Flat Rate envelopes or boxes, which come in a variety of sizes like small, medium, or large. The rate increases slightly with each larger size box.
Benefits of USPS Flat Rate Shipping
USPS Flat Rate can provide significant savings compared to weight-based shipping for eCommerce businesses. Benefits include:
- Fixed rates based on box size, regardless of weight
- Free tracking and $50 of insurance included
- Discounted rates compared to regular Priority Mail
- Fast 1-3 day delivery to most U.S. addresses
- Free Flat Rate boxes available at any Post Office location
How to Use USPS Flat Rate Shipping
Taking advantage of USPS Flat Rate Shipping is easy:
- Obtain free Flat Rate boxes or envelopes from USPS
- Pack your items securely into the Flat Rate packaging
- Affix the printed shipping label and proper postage
- Drop off at any Post Office location or schedule a USPS pickup
With creative packing, you can fit a surprising amount of merchandise in these boxes, making them ideal for ecommerce shipments. Just remember not to exceed the 70 lb weight limit.
The Bottom Line
USPS Flat Rate Shipping can help ecommerce businesses save significantly on fulfillment costs. By mastering Flat Rate packaging strategies, online sellers can ship affordably, quickly, and reliably across the country.
Next article: How to Calculate the Estimated Shipping Cost
FAQs
What are the size options for USPS Flat Rate boxes and envelopes?
USPS offers a variety of Flat Rate envelope and box sizes including Small Flat Rate Box, Medium Flat Rate Box, Large Flat Rate Box, Flat Rate Padded Envelope, and Legal Flat Rate Envelope.
What is the maximum weight for USPS Flat Rate shipments?
Packages shipped using USPS Flat Rate service cannot exceed 70 pounds in weight. Heavier packages would need to use USPS Priority Mail based on weight and zone.
How long does it take for Flat Rate packages to be delivered?
USPS Flat Rate has a delivery standard of 1-3 business days to most U.S. addresses from the ship date.
Can I use any box for USPS Flat Rate shipping?
No, you must use USPS-provided Flat Rate envelopes or boxes. These are available free of charge at any Post Office location.
Is insurance included with Flat Rate shipping?
Yes, every USPS Flat Rate shipment includes $50 of insurance coverage automatically. Additional insurance can be purchased for higher value packages.
Can I track USPS Flat Rate packages?
Yes, free tracking is included with Flat Rate shipping so you can follow your packages to delivery.
Where can I drop off and ship USPS Flat Rate packages?
Flat Rate packages can be dropped off at any United States Post Office location. You can also schedule free USPS package pickups from your location.
