How does the USPS charge shipping?

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USPS shipping costs begin at $5.40, with options like Click-N-Ship potentially offering lower rates. Commercial accounts and expedited services are also available.
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Understanding USPS Shipping Charges

The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a wide range of shipping options to meet various user needs. The cost of shipping with USPS depends on several factors, including the size, weight, destination, and shipping method selected.

Basic Shipping Costs

USPS shipping costs begin at $5.40 for the smallest and lightest items mailed through First-Class Mail. The cost increases as the size and weight of the package increase. The table below provides an overview of the basic shipping costs for different weight ranges:

Weight Range First-Class Mail
1 oz or less $0.58
2 oz $0.70
3 oz $0.83
4 oz $0.96
5-8 oz $1.13
9-12 oz $1.26
13-16 oz $1.40
17-20 oz $1.53

Additional Shipping Options

In addition to First-Class Mail, USPS offers several other shipping options with varying costs, such as:

  • Priority Mail: This service offers faster delivery times than First-Class Mail and includes tracking and insurance. The cost starts at $7.90 for a 1-pound package.
  • Priority Mail Express: This is the fastest shipping option offered by USPS and includes guaranteed overnight or 2-day delivery. The cost starts at $26.35 for a 1-pound package.
  • Retail Ground: This ground shipping option is available for larger and heavier packages. The cost starts at $6.95 for a 1-pound package.

Commercial Accounts and Expedited Services

USPS offers commercial accounts to businesses and organizations that ship large volumes of mail. Commercial accounts can negotiate discounted shipping rates based on their shipping volume.

USPS also offers expedited services, such as Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail 2-Day Delivery, for an additional fee. These services offer faster delivery times than standard shipping.

Calculating Shipping Costs

To calculate the exact shipping costs for your package, you can use the USPS Postage Calculator available on their website. This tool allows you to input the package’s size, weight, and destination to determine the cost of different shipping options.

By understanding the factors that influence USPS shipping costs, users can choose the most cost-effective and efficient shipping method for their needs.