Fulfillment centers and warehouses are both types of storage facilities for products and merchandise. However, there are some critical differences between the two. A fulfillment center is a 3PL (third-party logistics) provider specializing in eCommerce fulfillment. This means that they provide storage, packaging, and shipping services for online businesses. In contrast, a warehouse is a more general term that can refer to any storage facility for commercial or industrial purposes. Therefore, a fulfillment center is a type of warehouse specifically designed to meet the needs of eCommerce businesses.

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There are several key advantages that a fulfillment center has over a traditional warehouse. First, fulfillment centers are typically much more extensive than warehouses, which allows them to store more inventory. They also have state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, which helps ensure that products are stored appropriately and safely. In addition, fulfillment centers usually have a staff of trained professionals who can pick, pack, and ship orders quickly and efficiently. Finally, fulfillment centers typically offer various value-added services, such as returns processing and customer service.

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Overall, a fulfillment center is a specialized storage facility that offers many benefits for eCommerce businesses. If you run an online store, you should strongly consider using a fulfillment center to fulfill your orders.

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Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier

For Boxes and Rigid Packages:

Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
Multiply length x width x height
Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
The result is your package's cubic feet measurement

Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":

Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier

Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches

For Envelopes and Soft Packs:

Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
Round down to the nearest quarter inch
Add the length and width together
Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
- Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
- Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
- Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
- Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
- Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"

Restrictions

Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches

Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic

Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price

Tips for Maximizing Savings

Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings

2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.

What's the Difference Between a Fulfillment Center and a Warehouse?

Fulfillment centers and warehouses are both types of storage facilities for products and merchandise. However, there are some critical differences between the two.