How to Calculate Postal Rates
Shipping packages doesn’t have to be confusing or time consuming. The United States Postal Service has developed some exciting tools to help consumers ship their items safely and with little hassle. Calculating the exact amount of postage needed is quick and easy and can often be done online.
Things You’ll Need:
- Scale
- Tape measure
- Name and address of recipient
- Packaging materials
- Computer with Internet access
- Determine what kind of package will be sent. Boxes and envelopes have different rate lists. The USPS has flat rate boxes and envelopes available for free. They ship for a flat rate no matter what the weight is. These items can be ordered online and shipped to a home address for free or they can be picked up at any post office.
- Package the items to be shipped. It is important to have the box or envelope prepared exactly as it will be shipped to correctly determine size and weight.
- Use a digital scale or a kitchen scale to weigh the package. If a kitchen scale is used be sure to adjust the needle slightly to the right of zero so that any inaccuracies are covered. Round the weight up to the nearest ounce. If no scale is available, take the package to the local post office and have the clerk weigh it.
- Measure the dimensions of the box or envelope.
- Connect to an Internet browser and type “United States Postal Service" into the search field of an Internet search engine. Click the link for the official USPS website. Locate the tab near the top that says “Calculate Postage” and click on it. Choose whether the package is being shipped domestically or internationally. Follow the prompts to enter the size and weight of the item. Enter the zip code of the recipient. If a computer is not available, take the package to the post office and the clerk can discuss the options and prices for shipping.
- Decide which shipping option is desired. Postage can be paid and printed online and the packaged can be picked up by the local mail carrier or the package can be taken to the post office and postage can be purchased there.