Canada
Mexico
United Kingdom
Europe (Other)
Australia / New Zealand
Japan / Asia
Other International
Package / Box
Letter (Standard Envelope)
Large Envelope (Flat)
Estimated Shipping Options
Rates are estimates based on 2024 retail pricing logic. Actual postage may vary by exact dimensions and daily fluctuations. Customs duties not included.
How to Calculate USPS International Shipping Rates
Sending packages internationally via the United States Postal Service (USPS) requires understanding how weight, destination zones, and service levels interact to determine the final postage cost. Unlike domestic shipping, international rates are heavily influenced by the "Price Group" of the destination country.
Key Factors Affecting Your Rate
Weight and Shape: Rates are calculated based on the total weight (pounds and ounces). Items under 16 oz (1 lb) often qualify for First-Class Package International Service, which is the most economical option for small goods. Heavier items must go via Priority Mail International.
Destination Country: USPS divides the world into price groups. For example, Canada (Group 1) and Mexico (Group 2) typically have lower rates than Australia or Japan.
Service Level:
Global Forever Stamp: Best for standard letters under 1 oz.
First-Class Package International: Economical for packages up to 4 lbs.
Priority Mail International: Faster delivery (6-10 business days) with tracking and insurance.
Priority Mail Express International: Fastest service (3-5 business days) with date-certain delivery guarantees to select locations.
Understanding Customs Forms
When shipping internationally, you must complete a customs form (CN22 or CN23) detailing the contents and value of your package. The declared value determines insurance costs and potential duties the recipient may pay upon arrival.
Tips for Lower Rates
To save money on international shipping, consider keeping package weight under 4 lbs to utilize First-Class Package service. Additionally, purchasing postage online through platforms like Click-N-Ship or third-party software often provides commercial base pricing, which is lower than retail rates at the Post Office counter.
function calculateUSPSRates() {
var lbsInput = document.getElementById("weightLbs").value;
var ozInput = document.getElementById("weightOz").value;
var country = document.getElementById("destCountry").value;
var type = document.getElementById("packType").value;
var lbs = parseFloat(lbsInput) || 0;
var oz = parseFloat(ozInput) || 0;
// Convert everything to ounces for calculation
var totalOz = (lbs * 16) + oz;
var totalLbs = totalOz / 16;
if (totalOz 3.5) {
htmlResults += "
Error
N/A
";
htmlResults += "Standard letters cannot weigh more than 3.5 oz. Please select 'Large Envelope' or 'Package'.";
} else {
// Global Forever Stamp logic (approx)
var price = 1.55; // Base 1oz
if (totalOz > 1) {
// Roughly +$0.24 per extra oz or similar logic, keeping it simple for estimate
// Non-machinable surcharge often applies
price = 1.55 + ((Math.ceil(totalOz) – 1) * 0.28); // Estimate
}
htmlResults += renderService("First-Class Mail International Global Letter", "Standard delivery for letters.", price.toFixed(2));
}
}
// — LOGIC: LARGE ENVELOPE (FLAT) —
else if (type === "flat") {
if (totalOz > 15.99) {
htmlResults += "Large Envelopes cannot weigh more than 15.99 oz. Please select 'Package'.";
} else {
// Flats start around $3.00 for Canada, $3.25 Mexico, $3.45 others for 1 oz
var baseFlat = 3.00;
if (country !== "CA" && country !== "MX") baseFlat = 3.45;
// Add per oz cost roughly
var flatPrice = baseFlat + (Math.ceil(totalOz) * 0.30); // Rough estimation formula
htmlResults += renderService("First-Class Mail International Large Envelope", "For documents and flats only. No goods.", flatPrice.toFixed(2));
}
}
// — LOGIC: PACKAGES —
else {
// 1. First Class Package International (Max 4 lbs / 64 oz)
if (totalLbs <= 4) {
var fcpBase = 0;
// Retail Rate Estimates 2024 (Approximated)
// Canada Group 1: Starts ~$17
// Mexico Group 2: Starts ~$18
// Others: Starts ~$20 – $30
if (country === "CA") {
fcpBase = 17.00 + (totalLbs * 5.00);
} else if (country === "MX") {
fcpBase = 18.00 + (totalLbs * 6.00);
} else if (country === "GB" || country === "EU") {
fcpBase = 20.00 + (totalLbs * 8.00);
} else {
fcpBase = 23.00 + (totalLbs * 10.00);
}
htmlResults += renderService("First-Class Package International Service", "Most affordable for light packages (< 4lbs). Varies by destination.", fcpBase.toFixed(2));
}
// 2. Priority Mail International (Min usually 1lb for billing except flat rate)
var pmiBase = 0;
var weightCeil = Math.ceil(totalLbs);
// Base starts around $45-$60 depending on country for 1lb
if (country === "CA") {
pmiBase = 32.00 + (weightCeil * 3.50);
} else if (country === "MX") {
pmiBase = 38.00 + (weightCeil * 4.50);
} else {
pmiBase = 55.00 + (weightCeil * 5.50);
}
htmlResults += renderService("Priority Mail International", "6-10 business days. Includes tracking & insurance.", pmiBase.toFixed(2));
// 3. Priority Mail Express International
var pmeiBase = 0;
// Base starts around $50-$75
if (country === "CA") {
pmeiBase = 49.00 + (weightCeil * 4.50);
} else {
pmeiBase = 72.00 + (weightCeil * 7.50);
}
htmlResults += renderService("Priority Mail Express International", "3-5 business days. Date-certain delivery to select locations.", pmeiBase.toFixed(2));
}
document.getElementById("rateList").innerHTML = htmlResults;
document.getElementById("resultsArea").style.display = "block";
}
function renderService(name, details, price) {
return '