USPS Shipping Rate Estimator
Calculate retail postage for Ground Advantage, Priority, and Express
USPS Ground Advantage™ (Cheapest for < 1lb)
Priority Mail® (1-3 Business Days)
Priority Mail Express® (Next-Day to 2-Day)
Media Mail® (Books/Educational Only)
Pounds (lbs)
Ounces (oz)
Zone 1 (Local / < 50 miles)
Zone 2 (51 – 150 miles)
Zone 3 (151 – 300 miles)
Zone 4 (301 – 600 miles)
Zone 5 (601 – 1000 miles)
Zone 6 (1001 – 1400 miles)
Zone 7 (1401 – 1800 miles)
Zone 8 (1801+ miles)
Zone 9 (Freely Associated States)
Standard Parcel / Box
Large Envelope / Flat
Oversized (> 1 cubic ft)
Estimated Shipping Quote
Base Postage:
$0.00
Zone Surcharge:
$0.00
Weight Surcharge:
$0.00
Extra Services:
$0.00
Total Estimate: $0.00
*This is a retail rate estimation based on standard USPS pricing logic. Actual costs may vary at the Post Office based on exact dimensions and daily fuel surcharges.
Understanding USPS Shipping Rates in 2024-2025
Calculating shipping costs with the United States Postal Service (USPS) depends on three primary factors: weight, distance (Zone), and the service class chosen. Whether you are an eCommerce seller or sending a holiday gift, understanding these metrics can help you choose the most cost-effective option.
1. The Impact of Weight and Dimensions
USPS calculates postage based on the total weight of your package, rounded up to the nearest ounce for First Class (now Ground Advantage under 1lb) or the nearest pound for Priority Mail.
- Under 1 lb (16 oz): Prices are calculated by the ounce. This is the "sweet spot" for USPS Ground Advantage.
- Over 1 lb: Prices generally jump to the 1lb rate, then the 2lb rate, and so on.
- Dimensional Weight (DIM): If your package is light but very large (e.g., a large box of pillows), USPS may charge you based on the volume of the box rather than the scale weight. This calculator includes an option for "Oversized" packages to simulate this higher cost tier.
2. What are USPS Zones?
The USPS divides the United States into "Zones" based on the distance from the sender's zip code to the recipient's zip code. Zone 1 is local, while Zone 8 is across the country (e.g., New York to California).
| Zone | Distance Radius | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 & 2 | 0 – 150 miles | Lowest Rates |
| Zone 4 | 301 – 600 miles | Moderate Increase |
| Zone 8 | 1801+ miles | Highest Domestic Rates |
3. Comparing Service Types
Selecting the right service class is crucial for balancing speed and cost:
- USPS Ground Advantage™: The new standard for packages under 70lbs. It combines the old First Class Package and Parcel Select Ground. It includes $100 insurance and tracking. It is generally the cheapest option, taking 2-5 business days.
- Priority Mail®: A faster service (1-3 business days) that is predominantly used for packages over 1lb. It includes flat-rate options which aren't calculated by weight, but this calculator estimates the "weight-based" Priority rates.
- Priority Mail Express®: The fastest service offering next-day to 2-day delivery guarantees. It is significantly more expensive.
- Media Mail®: A specialized, highly restricted service only for books, sound recordings, and educational materials. It is very cheap but slow and subject to inspection.
4. How to Lower Your Shipping Costs
The rates shown in this calculator are Retail Rates (what you pay at the Post Office counter). To save money, consider buying postage online through "Commercial Pricing" providers. Platforms like Pirate Ship, Stamps.com, or eBay shipping labels can offer discounts of up to 40% off the rates shown above.