How to Calculate USPS Rates
USPS rates are easy to calculate due to their new Flat Rate service. The basis behind this service is if it fits in the envelope or box, it will ship for the same price. This is especially useful for businesses. However, for shipping just a few packages, you can use the USPS shipping calculation tool or take it to the post office.
- First, go to the USPS website. At the top of the page is blue bar, hover your mouse over
“Ship a Package” and click on “Calculate a Price.” You are
then taken to another page with several choices. - Click on the drop down next to
“Select a Destination” if you are shipping within the United
States, it defaults to “United States (Domestic Mail)”. Next,
enter the your zip code where the package is shipping from and enter
the zip code of the destination in the “To Zip Code.” - Enter the approximate shipping
date, which automatically defaults to the current date and time
“After 8:00 am.” You are first presented with the flat rate
services that are offered and their prices included envelopes and
packages. You can choose one of these or continue to the next
section. - Under the Flat Rate options, you
have a section “-Or- Select Shape” this is where you select the
type of package you have. For instance, if it is not a large package
that is more than 12 inches in dimension from any side tick the
“Package” option, enter the weight of the package next to “Enter
Weight” and then click the “Continue” at the bottom of the
page. - Look at the next page and you will
be give several options, if you want to see all options, click on
the option at the top of the page, “Display All Options.” Choose
your option and then decide if you want to print the shipping label,
which will save you time.