NOTE: We are NOT the United States Post Office and cannot answer your questions about personal shipments, rates, or other post office related matters. We make shipping software that’s compatible with USPS. For postage related questions please visit the USPS at: https://www.usps.com/
When you want to determine the medium flat rate box price to make shipping more affordable, it is helpful to know that there are two different boxes available in this size. USPS did a lot of market research in developing their USPS Priority flat rate shipping service. The box sizes were culled from identified averages of what size container would be the most flexible for customers. That the medium box comes in two different styles should tell you that this is one of the most important sizes of all.
The Medium Rate Boxes
Medium boxes do come in two types of sizes. The key difference to the sizes are how the boxes open. One opens on the side and the other from the top. Side opening boxes are better for books and documents, while top loading boxes are used for all else.
Medium Flat Rate Boxes
- Retail cost is $12.35
- Online cost is $11.30
- 11″ x 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ Inside and 11-1/4″ x 8-3/4″ x 6″ Outside
- 13-5/8″ x 11-7/8″ x 3-3/8″ Inside and 14″ x 12″ x 3-1/2″ Outside
APO/FPO Shipping Rates
The APO/FPO/DPO Flat Rate Box is used for shipping to military or federal addresses. One significant difference to note is that there is only one size box available for this service.
Can You Use Medium Boxes For Priority Express?
No, you cannot use a Priority medium box for Priority Express. There is no medium equivalent box for the Express service, however, the box that is available is only a ¼ inch larger than the Priority medium box. For many people, this makes it the equivalent which can lead to some confusion about the sizing on postal forums.
What Are The Rules Of Use
The rules of use are basic. To start with, only official USPS Priority Mail packaging can be used for flat rate shipping. The boxes must be able to close flush and as designed. You also cannot load more than 40 pounds in the boxes (20 for Express). Make sure you check the USPS website for the most recent list of prohibited items you cannot ship, it always includes explosives and live animals, but some restrictions change.
How To Save More On Flat Rate Shipping
While the medium flat rate box price can save you enough money to make shipping with USPS Priority a wise choice, you can save even more. There are many online sites that will offer flat rate shipping postage discounts. Services like Pitney Bowes enjoy well deserved reputations for delivering savings on flat rate shipping. If you are shipping enough, you may also be eligible for a volume discount too. To find out more about volume discounts for flat rate shipping from USPS, talk to your local representative.