Can You Use Any Box To Ship Usps? (All You Need To Know)

One of the marks of adulthood is keeping a box because it’s a “good box,” and this practice comes in handy when it comes time to ship something.

You will find many flat-rate options at the United States Postal Service. And they will ship your boxes free of cost if you order them online.

It might seem odd to ask: Can any USPS box be used for shipping? What if you are locked in to the USPS Flat Rate shipping service? I have the answer you seek.

Can You Use Any Box To Ship USPS? (All You Need To Know)

What boxes can you use to send USPS mail in 2022

While the United States Postal Service does encourage the use of their Flat Rate shipping boxes, customers can send packages using pretty much any box they desire. The USPS has some guidelines regarding size and appearance. Most boxes, however, can be used for shipping.

  • Continue reading for more information on how to use or reuse a USPS shipping box, what services are required of it, and best shipping practices.
  • How do you reuse or use a USPS box for shipping?

    The USPS.com site has a lot of advice for how to use or reuse a box of your own for shipping through their system.

    Let’s start by mentioning five factors you should consider before choosing your own box.
    Can You Use Any Box To Ship USPS? (All You Need To Know)

    Does it need to be made plain?

    It does it list any items prohibited from USPS mail? It includes guns, alcohol and toxic material.

    The USPS site states that any box containing words or images referring to such items will be removed.

    What is the standard box size? Boxes in irregular sizes/shapes won’t go through the scanning/sorting/processing machines and may be subject to extra fees.

    Is the box sturdy enough? USPS doesn’t make a habit of abusing packages, but boxes do need to stand up to a certain degree of handling and jostling.

    Are the boxes small enough? While the Postal Service’s limits on box sizes are by no means small, customers must nonetheless ensure their packages do not exceed 108 inches in total length and girth.

    For more information on preparing your box for shipment, check out the USPS page here.

    Does it cost less to use your own box for shipping with the USPS?

    You can save money by using your own USPS flat-rate box instead of purchasing one. This will depend on your destination and the dimension and weight.

    ShippingEasy.com notes that Priority Mail Flat Rates can cost more if you are sending lighter items.

    You will need to research and compare the costs of each service to find out which one is most affordable.

    The USPS.com postal calculator tool makes it easy. Just enter your shipping information, and you will be able to see all possible shipping options. You’ll also receive estimated costs.

    Can You Use Any Box To Ship USPS? (All You Need To Know)

    It is possible to mail Priority Mail USPS Postal Service using any container

    Any box can be used to send Priority Mail as long as it is not being charged flat rate shipping fees by the USPS Priority Mail.

    Flat Rate boxes will be required to enable you to pay Priority Flat rate prices. They are available at all Post Offices and online for free.

    Priority Mail Express is a service that does not deliver boxes. It only delivers letters and envelopes.

  • A different shipper will be required if the box is to be shipped domestically overnight (or two-day) such as FedEx, UPS, or USPS.
  • Do you have to send USPS First class with any other box than the one listed?

    Any box can be used to send USPS First Class if it weighs less than 15.999 ounces.

    First-class package shipping only works for light, small boxes. You will need to select a different shipping option if your item is heavier/larger.

    USPS sells no First Class boxes, so your only shipping option is to bring your own.

    Can You Use Any Box To Ship USPS? (All You Need To Know)

    What boxes can you use to send internationally with the USPS

    If you do not want to ship using any of the USPS Priority Mail International Flat Rate boxes, you can certainly use your own box to ship internationally.

    International parcels can be sent using Global Express Guaranteed and Priority Mail Express International.

    But, it is important to check that you have all required international shipping requirements in place for the boxes you use.

    Which is the Smallest USPS Box?

    ShippingSchool.com reports that USPS accepts smallest packages up to 6 inches by 3 inches by 1/4 inch. That’s 6″x3″x.25″.

    If the size of your box is too small, you can find helpful suggestions on this site.

    They have some advice. If you’re buying postage online, enter the minimum dimensions. Print it and attach it.

    USPS rarely removes a small box because it is too small.

    Can You Use Any Box To Ship USPS? (All You Need To Know)

    What Is The Largest Box You Can Ship USPS?

    Each mail class is different in terms of maximum box size with USPS, but ShippingSchool.com cites the two most popular classes and their max box sizes:

  • First-Class Package: Maxes out at 22″x18″x15″
  • Priority mail: Your total dimensions (Length, x Girth), cannot exceed 108 inches
  • For the other classes, the maximum size is the same as Priority Mail, with the one exception of USPS Retail Ground, which is 130 inches total.

    To learn more, you can also read our posts on whether or not USPS notarize documents, if USPS scans packages, and also if USPS delivers to door.

  • Conclusion
  • USPS offers flexible shipping options such as box pick-up, and yes, ship-yourself for almost all their mail classes.

    To save money and use your own mailbox, you can use the USPS.com postal calculator. It will show all available services that your parcel may be eligible for, along with the cost estimate.

    What if I have my own box?

    As long as your Flat Rate shipping is not used, yes. Any box can be used if you are shipping Priority Mail Commercial domestically. Nov 23, 2020

    What if I want to ship usps using an Amazon box?

    Reusing and recycling packaging can be good for the environment. However, it must be done properly to send the mail. Mailing boxes can be damaged during shipment so don’t reuse them.

    Are You able to send usps from your box for less?

    While Medium and Large Flat Rate boxes may be free, using your own packaging is often CHEAPER than shipping Priority Mail Flat rate, thanks to a “secret” USPS mail class called Priority Mail Cubic.Oct 31, 2018

    .Can You Use Any Box To Ship Usps? (All You Need To Know)