USPS Shipping Rates Estimator
Estimated Shipping Cost
How USPS Shipping Rates Are Calculated
Calculating United States Postal Service (USPS) shipping rates involves several key variables. Whether you are sending a small gift to a relative or running an e-commerce business, understanding these factors helps you choose the most cost-effective method.
1. Weight and Dimensions
The heavier the package, the higher the cost. For Ground Advantage, packages under 15.99 ounces are priced by the ounce. Once a package exceeds 1 pound, it is rounded up to the next pound. For example, a package weighing 1.2 pounds is charged at the 2-pound rate.
Dimensions also matter. If a package is larger than 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches), "Dimensional Weight" may apply to Priority Mail, meaning you are charged for the space it takes up rather than its actual weight.
2. Shipping Zones
USPS divides the United States into nine "zones" based on the distance from the point of origin (where you are shipping from) to the destination (where the package is going).
- Zones 1 & 2: Within 150 miles.
- Zones 3-4: 151 to 600 miles.
- Zones 5-8: 601 to 1,800+ miles.
- Zone 9: U.S. territories and freely associated states.
3. Service Type Comparison
| Service | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Advantage | 2-5 Days | Small items & Budget shipping |
| Priority Mail | 1-3 Days | Fast delivery & Insurance |
| Priority Express | Overnight | Urgent documents/valuable items |
Money-Saving Tips for USPS
To get the lowest rates, consider using Flat Rate Boxes for heavy items traveling long distances. Since the price is the same regardless of weight (up to 70 lbs) or zone, it can save significant money. Additionally, purchasing your shipping labels online (Commercial Base Pricing) is almost always cheaper than paying the Retail rate at the post office counter.