What's the Cheapest Way to Ship with USPS?

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There's some pretty simple rules of thumb when it comes to knowing what will be the cheapest way to ship:

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• If your package is 15.9 ounces or less, then using your own packaging with the First Class Package service will always be cheapest.

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• If your package is over 1lb but it fits into any Flat Rate Envelope or the Small Flat Rate Box, those are the cheapest ways to go.

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• If your package is over 1lb and doesn't fit into those, then it's cheapest to use as small of a box as possible to qualify for Priority Mail Cubic.

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• Only if your package weighs more than 20lbs would Medium or Large Flat Rate Boxes ever be a good deal. Regional Rate Boxes are never a good deal.

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Related: How to Get Free Shipping Supplies from USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL

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One benefit of Priority Mail Cubic is you can use your own packaging, but USPS also offers free boxes you can use with Priority Mail Cubic:

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Priority Mail Box - 1096L | OD: 9-7/16" x 6-7/16" x 2-3/16" | Cubic Tier 1

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Priority Mail Box - 4 | OD: 7-1/4" x 7-1/4" x 6-1/2" | Cubic Tier 2

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Priority Mail Box - 1097 | OD: 11.625" x 2.5" x 13.4375" | Cubic Tier 3

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Priority Mail Box - 1092 | OD: 12.25" x 2.875" x 13.6875" | Cubic Tier 3

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Priority Mail Box - 1095 | OD: 12.5" x 3.125 x 15.375" | Cubic Tier 4

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Priority Mail Box - Shoe Box | OD: 7-3/8" x 5-1/4" x 14-7/8" | Cubic Tier 4

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Learn More: USPS First Class Package and Other USPS Mail Classes