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Shipping packages through the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 2025 can be straightforward with the right information. This guide walks you through each step to ship your packages with confidence.
Step 1: Know Your Options
Priority Mail
Priority Mail typically arrives within 1 to 3 business days. Prices vary based on weight, dimensions, and destination zone. For accurate pricing, use the USPS Price Calculator.
Priority Mail includes USPS Tracking and often comes with up to $100 of insurance coverage. For convenience, Priority Mail offers Flat Rate options for packages under 70 pounds that fit into the provided boxes or envelopes.
First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is economical for packages weighing up to 13 ounces for large envelopes and parcels, and up to 3.5 ounces for letters. A First-Class Mail Forever stamp will remain at 73 cents for at least the first half of 2025.
Keep in mind that USPS is adjusting its service standards in 2025, which might result in slightly longer delivery times for some First-Class Mail items.
Media Mail
Media Mail offers a cost-effective solution for shipping books, sound and video recordings, printed music, and other educational materials. This service typically takes between 2 and 8 business days for delivery.
There are strict restrictions on the type of media that can be shipped using this service. Items cannot contain advertising, and all Media Mail packages are subject to inspection.
USPS Ground Advantage
USPS Ground Advantage is reliable for sending packages weighing up to 70 pounds, with delivery in 2 to 5 business days. Ground Advantage includes USPS Tracking and Saturday delivery, and packages cannot exceed a combined length and girth of 130 inches.
Other Services
For urgent shipments, consider Priority Mail Express for next-day or 2-day delivery with a money-back guarantee to certain locations.
Parcel Select is primarily used by businesses for bulk shipments, with varying delivery times.
In 2025, USPS is launching Next Day Priority for retail and online businesses needing overnight delivery within 150 miles of regional processing centers.
Service Comparison
| Service | Estimated Delivery Time | Weight/Size Limits | Starting Cost (Retail) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail | 1-3 Business Days | Up to 70 lbs, 108 inches combined length & girth | Varies by weight, size, and zone |
| First-Class Mail | 1-5 Business Days | Up to 13 oz (packages), 3.5 oz (letters) | From $0.73 (stamp) |
| Media Mail | 2-8 Business Days | Up to 70 lbs, specific media types only | From $4.63 |
| USPS Ground Advantage | 2-5 Business Days | Up to 70 lbs, 130 inches combined length & girth | From $5.25 |
| Priority Mail Express | Next-Day to 2-Day | Up to 70 lbs, 108 inches combined length & girth | From $31.40 |
Note: Costs are approximate and subject to change. Always check the USPS Price Calculator for the most up-to-date information.
Step 2: Package Like a Pro
Choosing a Box
Select a strong box with enough space to surround your item with cushioning material. Reusing boxes is acceptable, but remove or completely cover any previous labels and markings.
Avoid reusing boxes that were previously used to ship hazardous materials.
For most shipments, sturdy paperboard or corrugated fiberboard boxes are recommended. For heavier or delicate items, double-walled corrugated boxes offer enhanced protection.
Consider environmentally friendly packaging options such as boxes with recycled content and biodegradable cushioning materials.
USPS provides free Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express boxes and envelopes, which can be ordered online or obtained at a Post Office. These must be used with the corresponding Priority Mail services.
Cushioning Your Items
Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspaper, or shredded paper to fill all empty spaces within the box and prevent your item from shifting during transit.
For fragile items, wrap each piece individually with cushioning material and ensure there is ample padding around all sides within the box.
If you’re shipping hollow items, stuff the inside with packing material to provide additional support.
To check if you have enough cushioning, close the box and gently shake it; you should not hear or feel the contents moving around.
Consider placing an additional address label inside the package, including both the delivery and return addresses, in case the outer label becomes damaged.
Sealing Your Package
Use strong packing tape that is at least 2 inches wide, such as clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape, or paper tape.
Tape all seams and flaps of the box to ensure a tight and secure seal.
Avoid using cord, string, or twine to seal your package, as these can get caught in USPS sorting equipment.
Refrain from using masking tape or cellophane tape, as they are not strong enough to withstand shipping.
To protect your printed shipping label, place a strip of clear packing tape over it, ensuring the entire address and barcode remain legible.
Step 3: Postage and Labels
Calculating Postage
USPS shipping costs are calculated based on weight, dimensions, distance, and service type.
Use a reliable kitchen or postal scale to weigh your package, including all packaging materials. USPS typically rounds up the weight to the next full ounce or pound.
For certain shipping services, dimensional weight (DIM weight) may apply to larger, lightweight packages. If your package exceeds one cubic foot (1728 cubic inches), calculate the DIM weight by multiplying length, width, and height in inches, then dividing by 166.
For accurate postage estimates, use the USPS Postage Calculator on the USPS website or through the USPS Mobile app.
Click-N-Ship
The USPS website’s Click-N-Ship service allows you to pay for postage and print shipping labels from your computer.
Create a free account on the USPS website to access Click-N-Ship. This service often offers lower Commercial Rates compared to retail prices at the post office counter.
For frequent shippers, Click-N-Ship provides features such as saved shipping preferences, address books, and batch processing.
You can print your shipping label on standard printer paper and attach it to your package using clear packing tape.
Note that USPS is transitioning to an enhanced version of Click-N-Ship, with full transition expected by February 27, 2025.
USPS Mobile App
The USPS Mobile app, available for Android and iOS devices, helps manage shipping on the go.
While it doesn’t offer full label creation, the app allows you to calculate shipping prices and access other USPS tools.
Use the app to track packages, find nearby Post Office locations, look up ZIP codes, schedule free package pickups, request mail holds, and access Informed Delivery.
Label Broker
For those without a printer, USPS offers self-service kiosks with Label Broker service at many Post Office locations.
This service allows you to print prepaid shipping labels created online using Click-N-Ship or other participating platforms.
You’ll receive a Label Broker ID (QR code and 8-10 character code). Bring this ID with your package to a participating kiosk, scan the QR code, and your shipping label will print out.
Post Office Counter
You can always purchase postage and shipping labels directly from a postal worker at your local Post Office.
While this offers in-person assistance, be aware that the postage rates might be higher than the commercial rates available online.
This option is necessary for certain types of shipments, such as Registered Mail, or when you need proof of mailing.
Step 4: Address it Right
Return Address
Always include a complete return address on your package or shipping label with your full name or company name, apartment or suite number (if applicable), complete street address, city, state, and ZIP+4 code.
Place the return address in the upper left corner of your package or shipping label.
Having a return address ensures that if your package is undeliverable, the Postal Service can return it to you.
Recipient’s Address
Include the recipient’s full name or company name, apartment or suite number (if applicable), complete street address, city, state, and ZIP+4 code.
Write or print the delivery address clearly in the center of your package or shipping label.
For optimal readability by USPS automated sorting machines, use all uppercase letters and avoid punctuation (except for the hyphen in the ZIP+4 code).
The ZIP code is crucial, and using the correct ZIP+4 code helps direct your mail more efficiently. Look up ZIP codes on the USPS website.
Military Addresses
When sending mail to military personnel overseas (APO/FPO/DPO addresses), include the service member’s full name, rank, and unit.
The city line should read “APO” (Army/Air Post Office), “FPO” (Fleet Post Office), or “DPO” (Diplomatic Post Office).
The state line should use the appropriate two-letter abbreviation: “AA” (Armed Forces Americas), “AE” (Armed Forces Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Canada), or “AP” (Armed Forces Pacific).
Include the correct ZIP+4 code. Do not include the city or country name in the address, as this can cause the mail to enter foreign mail networks.
International Addresses
Write the delivery address clearly in English. Include the recipient’s full name, street address or post office box number, city or town, province or region (if applicable), postal code, and the full country name in uppercase letters on the last line.
If you know the address in another language, you can include it below the English translation.
For international shipments containing merchandise, you will likely need to complete a customs form, available online at usps.com or at the Post Office.
Step 5: Sending it Off
Post Office Drop-Off
Visit your local Post Office during operating hours. Postal clerks can assist with questions, weigh your package if needed, and process your shipment.
If your package weighs more than 13 ounces and you’re using only postage stamps, you must take it to a postal employee at the counter.
Package Pickup
USPS offers free Package Pickup service where your mail carrier will collect packages from your home or office during regular mail delivery.
This service is available for packages sent via Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, USPS Ground Advantage, and for returns.
Schedule pickup online through the USPS website or the USPS Mobile app. Your packages must have prepaid postage already applied and be ready for shipment before your carrier arrives.
Individual packages cannot exceed 70 pounds or 130 inches in combined length and girth. Designate a safe and accessible location for your carrier to pick up the package.
Collection Boxes
USPS blue collection boxes in public areas provide a quick way to drop off smaller packages and mail items 24/7.
For packages with only postage stamps, the weight limit is usually 10 ounces or less, and the thickness should be no more than 1/2 inch.
With a prepaid shipping label, the weight limit might be slightly higher, but ensure your package fits securely in the opening.
It’s not recommended to deposit oversized or overweight packages, items needing special handling, or international mail requiring customs forms in collection boxes. Visit a Post Office for these.
Step 6: Extra Peace of Mind
USPS Tracking
Most USPS shipping services (except basic First-Class Mail letters and postcards) include free USPS Tracking.
Monitor your package’s progress online at usps.com or through the USPS Mobile app.
Find your tracking number on your shipping receipt, the shipping label, or in your online shipping history.
Sign up for email and text alerts to receive automatic updates on your package’s journey.
For extended tracking information access, USPS Tracking Plus is available for a fee.
Insurance
USPS offers insurance coverage for up to $5,000, with cost varying based on the declared value of your item.
Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail often include up to $100 of insurance, as does USPS Ground Advantage.
Purchase additional insurance at the Post Office or online when creating your label.
Signature Confirmation
For important shipments requiring delivery confirmation, Signature Confirmation provides the date, time, and location of delivery, plus an image of the recipient’s signature.
This service requires the recipient (or a responsible person at the delivery address) to be present to sign for the package.
Add Signature Confirmation when purchasing postage at a Post Office or online.
For greater control, Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery ensures that only the specific addressee (or their authorized agent) can sign for the item.
Registered Mail
When shipping extremely valuable items domestically, Registered Mail offers the highest level of security with manual processing, tracking through receipts, and signatures at every step.
This service includes insurance coverage up to $50,000 for loss or damage and must be presented to a postal employee for mailing.
Other Special Services
- Certified Mail: Provides proof of mailing and delivery confirmation for important documents
- Return Receipt: Gives physical or electronic proof of delivery with the recipient’s signature
- Adult Signature: Requires the recipient to be at least 21 years old and show ID
- Package Intercept: Allows you to request package redirection before delivery
Step 7: Common Shipping Questions and Challenges
Lost or Delayed Packages
If your package seems lost or delayed, first check its tracking status on the USPS website or app.
For significant delays, submit a help request form and then a Missing Mail search request through the USPS website.
Contact your local Post Office or USPS Customer Service for assistance.
Postage Issues
If you sent a package with insufficient postage, it might be returned to you or delivered with postage due for the recipient.
For overpaid or unused labels, request a refund by obtaining and submitting USPS Form 3533 within 60 days. Processing fees may apply.
Damaged or incorrect stamps and prepaid packaging can usually be exchanged.
Packaging Mistakes
Always use a sturdy, appropriately sized box with ample cushioning and secure sealing.
Avoid overpacking or underpacking, and ensure your shipping label is clear, accurate, and securely attached.
Delivery Problems
Delays can happen due to weather or high volume. USPS has adjusted its on-time delivery targets for some mail in 2025, potentially leading to slightly longer transit times.
Keep checking the tracking information and contact USPS for significant delays.
If you receive mail that isn’t yours, mark it “Not at this address” and return it to USPS.
Step 8: USPS Trends and Updates for 2025
Rate Changes
Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage saw average price increases, while Parcel Select experienced a more significant rise. The price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp remains stable for now.
The peak demand surcharges have ended, but new handling fees for live animals and perishable items have been introduced.
Service Standard Refinements
USPS is implementing refined service standards in 2025, which might lead to slightly longer delivery times for some First-Class Mail as part of their network modernization efforts.
These changes are being rolled out in two phases, starting in April and July 2025.
New Services and Updates
Watch for new services like “Next Day Priority” for businesses needing faster local delivery.
USPS is focusing on optimizing Ground Advantage and expanding USPS Connect.
The Click-N-Ship platform is transitioning to an enhanced version.
New stamp designs are being released throughout 2025, and redesigned money orders were introduced in February 2025.
Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.
