USPS Flat Rate Envelope Restrictions
Flat rate envelopes are not appropriate only for document use; these can be used to send different types of items. Though the weight should not be up to 70 pounds and the envelope should not be oversized. However, some restrictions need to be focused on before using Flat Rate envelopes.
Sizes and weight of Flat Rate Envelope
USPS offers different sizes in flat rate envelope service. Some sizes are best suited for the documents while using some others; you can send some items in it. As long as it is possible to fold the envelope easily, bulges do not matter. Flat Rate envelopes are available in several sizes with only one flat fee. Any type of material that can easily be folded in an envelope, unless you don’t need unnecessary tape or starching, can be acceptable to put in the Flat Rate envelope. For instance, you can use it to send clothes, toys or shoes etc. The weight for a national flat rate envelope is 70 Lbs. The Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes or Boxes come in regular sizes and can be used without worrying about weight. The maximum length of the item is 108 inches.
Cost of Flat Rate Envelope
The cost of the envelope depends on the type of envelope, for instance, Priority Mail Small, Flat and Window Flat Rate Envelope cost is $8.70. Similarly, the cost of a Priority Mail Padded Flat Rate Envelope is $9.30 and the Priority Mail Legal Flat Rate Envelope price is $9.00. These above-mentioned prices are the postage charges whereas the envelope is free of cost. On the other hand, for the use of a reconstructed envelope, USPS charges will apply according to weight and zone.
Prohibited Items in a Flat Rate USPS Envelopes
Some items are prohibited in the Flat Rate USPS envelopes; you cannot send these items from one place to another domestically or internationally. The prohibited items include bags for air, weapons, gasoline, explosives, alcohol, lithium batteries, paints, hand soaps, perfumes etc.
Flat Rate VS Priority Mail
Generally speaking, the main difference between the two depends on the shipping costs. Priority Mails calculate the shipping costs through the distance and dimension weight of the item. Whereas, if you are sending items far from your distance, Flat Rate boxes of USPS will be the excellent choice for heavy packages. Moreover, shipping costs depend on the package size in USPS Flat Rate.
When to Use USPS Flat Rate Envelopes?
It is used for domestic travel with 1Ib packaging weight. In case you have less than 1Ib weight, you may have the choice to use your envelope and send it through USPS First class Package Service. Therefore, a Flat Rate envelope is considered the cheapest choice for weighing up to 70 lbs.
How Does USPS Flat Rate Shipping Work?
The USPS Flat Rate shipping works in all states of the US within 1-3 business days. To use this service, you should first order a Flat Rate box which is free of cost from USPS. You can use the branded Flat Rate box that is available online or you can collect it from your nearby local Post Office. Secondly, you need to sign up for a free Shippo account for shipping and the best thing is that you can print your labels from your home or office without any problem.
Conclusion
To sum up, USPS’ Flat Rate envelopes are a fast, cheapest and appropriate way to ship documents, clothing, toys or anything that easily fits in the envelope. The Flat Rate envelope introduces seven different sizes and you can send anything in any state of the United States. The weight of the Flat Rate envelope package should not be more than 70 pounds and the size should be less than 108 inches. Flat Rate envelopes are extensively consumed mail products in the US due to their cost, size and weight.
- How much weight is USPS allowed in a flat rate envelope?
Weights restrictions are different and depend on which type of Priority Mail Flat Rate envelopes you choose for shipping. It is also different for domestic and international packages. For Instance, Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelopes offer a 4-pound weight. Similarly, Priority Mail International Large and Medium Flat Rate Boxes do not offer weights of more than 20 pounds. Likewise, Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes and Small Flat Rate Box price is 4 pounds.
- Can a Flat Rate envelope be used for regular mail?
Unfortunately, you can’t use a USPS Flat Rate box without paying a particular amount for the service mentioned in the box.
