USPS Shipping FAQ

For a standard 1-ounce letter within the US, you need 1 Forever stamp (currently $0.73 as of 2025). Each additional ounce requires an additional $0.28 stamp. Letters over 3.5 ounces are charged package rates.

As of January 2025, a Forever stamp costs $0.73. Forever stamps retain their value even if postal rates increase, making them a smart choice for future mailings.

Package shipping costs depend on weight, size, destination, and service level. USPS Ground Advantage starts around $4.95 for small packages, Priority Mail from $10.20, and Priority Mail Express from $31.20.

Priority Mail takes 1-3 business days and starts at $10.20. Priority Mail Express is overnight to 2-day delivery starting at $31.20 and includes a money-back guarantee.

Use our free USPS postage calculator above. Enter your package weight, dimensions, origin, destination, and service level for accurate pricing. You can also visit USPS.com or any post office.

Maximum size is 108 inches in combined length and girth (length + 2×width + 2×height). Maximum weight is 70 pounds for most services. Oversized packages may require special handling.

Yes, but it's usually not cost-effective. For packages, use Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, or Express services instead of multiple stamps. Our calculator shows the most economical options.

USPS Ground Advantage typically takes 2-5 business days within the continental US. Delivery time depends on distance between origin and destination postal facilities.

For packages larger than 1 cubic foot, USPS uses dimensional weight pricing. This is calculated as (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 166. You're charged based on whichever is greater: actual weight or dimensional weight.

Use First-Class Mail International (letters/postcards), Priority Mail International, or Priority Mail Express International. Rates vary by destination country and weight. Some restrictions apply to certain countries.

You can use your own boxes or USPS-provided packaging. Priority Mail and Express Mail include free boxes and envelopes. Packages must be properly sealed and labeled.

Basic insurance is included: up to $100 for Ground Advantage and Express, up to $50 for Priority Mail. Additional insurance is available for higher-value items at $2.05 per $100 of coverage.

All USPS services include free tracking. Use your tracking number on USPS.com, the USPS mobile app, or text updates. Tracking is updated as your package moves through the postal network.

Only Priority Mail Express includes a money-back guarantee. Other services provide expected delivery windows but are not guaranteed. Contact USPS customer service for significantly delayed packages.

Yes, USPS offers free package pickup for Priority Mail and Express Mail packages. Schedule online at USPS.com or call 1-800-ASK-USPS. Pickup is available at your address.

For letters under 1 oz: Forever stamps ($0.73). For packages under 1 lb: USPS Ground Advantage (starting $4.95). For heavier packages: compare Ground Advantage vs. Priority Mail using our calculator.

USPS divides the US into 8 shipping zones based on distance from origin to destination. Zones 1-2 are local/regional, while Zone 8 is the farthest distance. Pricing increases with zone number for packages.

Some liquids are allowed in domestic shipping if properly packaged to prevent leaks. Hazardous liquids, perfumes, and nail polish are prohibited. Check USPS guidelines for specific restrictions.

USPS allows up to $25,000 in declared value with additional insurance. Registered Mail provides maximum security for valuable items up to $25,000. Consider alternative carriers for higher values.

Perishable items require Priority Mail Express (1-2 days) or Priority Mail (1-3 days) for best results. Use insulated packaging, ice packs, and ship early in the week to avoid weekend delays.

USPS delivers to all US addresses, but some remote locations may require pickup at the nearest post office. PO Box addresses can't receive packages requiring signatures unless pickup is arranged.

Odd-shaped packages are charged based on their actual dimensions using the dimensional weight formula. Use our package visualizer above to ensure your package meets USPS size requirements.

First-Class Mail is for letters, postcards, and lightweight items under 13 oz. Ground Advantage is for packages and heavier items, offering tracking and up to $100 insurance included.

Yes, USPS offers various business solutions including Commercial Pricing (discounted rates), bulk shipping, and business accounts. Use our calculator to compare business vs. retail rates.

USPS operates on modified schedules during holidays. Christmas and New Year shipping deadlines are typically mid-December for ground services. Priority Mail Express is available on most holidays for urgent shipments.