How to Save on Shipping by USPS: Tips that Really Work

— Do you want to save on shipping when having your items delivered with USPS? Here is a full guide of saving a couple of bucks without quality and speed compromises. —

Sending a package sounds easy, but the truth is there are several things to consider. Where is it going, and how fast do you want it to arrive? What is the best and safest option for shipping? And the list goes on. Depending on the contents and the distance, shipping costs can shoot through the roof, getting higher the larger its size and the further it goes. Lucky for you, there are always some ways to save on shipping with one of the world’s most trusted mailing providers, USPS. Not only will we reveal these tips, helping you save on shipping, but will also give you the scoop on a USPS tracking system collaboration with Pkge.net, taking all the stress and hassle out of sending packages with the most trusted name in shipping services. 

Know What You Got

First of all, it helps to know what you’re dealing with. Be sure to find out the weight of the contents you’ll be sending. Then, think about the best package for not only the items but also the weight. USPS is known for its witty slogan ‘If it fits it ships,’ and they mean it. Each box comes with a flat-rate fee, guaranteeing that the price will not shoot up based on the weight so long that it fits properly. So, get smart and rearrange items in the proper box to get the best bang out of your buck.

Go by Cubic Weight

Known as the cheapest way to ship books, this method comes at a discounted rate depending on the volume and weight. It is perfect for packages weighing less than 20 pounds and measuring less than .5 cubic feet. Think of this method as a way to step away from the scale and only ship by the length and width of your package. The only other factor considered while calculating this price is the distance the box will travel. 

Keep Your Eyes Open for Free Supplies

Many people think that sending items comes with costs at every corner, ending with a high final price that could be an inconvenience. One perk often overlooked is USPS free shipping supplies that can be ordered either online or in-store. These supplies include shipping labels and boxes of all sizes, some of them for only specific items and others suiting a wide range of contents. Taking advantage of some of these free items could save you a ton, leaving only postage in some cases. 

Score Discounts

Another steal that often goes unnoticed is the volume discount handed out by USPS. It is the cheapest way to ship, especially if you’re a frequent sender. To partake in this discount, you’ll need to sign up for a personal USPS account, one that will start keeping track of all the mail that is sent. There are 3 separate options, including: 

• First Class
• Priority
• Express

All of them require 5,000 parcels within a calendar year. The discount is then applied to future mailings, making the cost of shipping plummet year after year. 

Reduce and Reuse

It is something that you can do easily, and it doesn’t cost a thing. When receiving a package, carefully open it and take out the contents, saving the box for further use. Also, don’t overlook others that may have unneeded boxes. If you’re a frequent shipper, reach out and contact companies that are shipping and receiving daily for unused boxes. Think outside of the box and come up with your own unique and creative way to insulate the inside, especially for fragile items, thus taking away any unnecessary costs, leaving only the final postage to be considered.  

Refuse From Insurance 

It can be scary to think about what could happen to a package out there in the big wide world. Companies understand these concerns and attempt to sell an extra sense of security to customers by including insurance with packages. The truth is, insurance is just not worth it, especially when trying to save money on the shipment. It may seem like a gamble, but the likelihood of a package getting lost somewhere in the mix of shipping is slim to none, especially if this package is not large and doesn’t contain irreplaceable items. The cheapest shipping method comes without the added insurance and just good faith in the well-running postage services of today. 

Shipping Made Easy and Hassle-Free

Overall, these 6 tips are a no-fail way to save on shipping. No longer will the cost be a factor, leaving only one thing, the location. Adding a top-notch tracking company like Pkge.net to the already secure services of USPS will allow you to rest at ease, giving you up the minute access to the location of your package no matter where in the world it may be. Using only the USPS tracking information provided at the time of shipment, you’ll get notifications and updates as your package makes its way to its desired destination. Ship items smarter, not harder, with these six tips and the help of Pkge.net tracking.