How to Calculate U.S. Postage Rates Online

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Navigate to www.usps.com/tools/calculatepostage/welcome.htm for a step-by-step walk-through of the latest postal pricing options.

   Alternatively, you can just surf to www.usps.com and click "Calculate Costs" beneath the "Plan a Shipment" heading.
   
   Postage prices change periodically, so it's a good idea to double-check postage rates, even if you've mailed a similar-size-and-weight package before. ,, Input the destination zip code you're sending to in the "To ZIP Code" field. ,, Several sizes are available, with dimensions and corresponding prices listed on the USPS website.
   
   Shipping by flat rate almost always saves you money if you're sending something heavy.
   
   But if you're sending something relatively light, it might be worth your while to calculate non-flat-rate postage. , Although a postal scale would give you the most accurate measurement, you can at least estimate postage using a kitchen scale or even a bathroom scale, if the package is heavy enough to trigger the latter.
   
   Input the weight, in pounds and ounces, into the appropriate field at the bottom of the web page. , If you selected "Large Package" you'll have to input the package's general shape (rectangular/square or non-rectangular) and dimensions, then click "Continue" again. , You can also print the appropriate postage online and arrange for a postal carrier to pick your package up. ,
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   Step 2: Select either the domestic postage calculator (for shipments within the United States)

   If the package won't fit in any of the flat-rate mailers, select either "Large Envelope," "Package" or "Large Package" from the remaining options.
   
   Click "Continue." If you selected "Large Package" you'll be prompted to enter the package's dimensions and weight, then click "Continue" again.
   
   Select from the variety of pricing options you're presented with. ,, In the pull-down menu below the appropriate option, select your preferred mailing service--for example, Priority Mail, First Class or Standard. , Directly below this, enter the quantity of each type of mail to be sent, then click "Calculate" to calculate your postage cost.
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   Step 3: the international postage calculator (for shipments to other countries) or the business postage calculator.

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   Step 4: Input the zip code you're shipping from in the "From ZIP Code" field.

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   Step 5: Select the date and time you intend to mail the package.

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   Step 6: Measure your package to see whether it will fit inside an Express Mail or Priority Mail flat-rate envelope or box.

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   Step 7: Weigh your package.

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   Step 8: Click "Continue."

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   Step 9: Review the array of possible postal services and the corresponding rates that come up on your screen.

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    Step 10: Select the destination for your package from the pull-down menu at the top of the page.

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    Step 11: Measure and weigh the package

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    Step 12: then compare it against the dimensions and weight limits listed for International Priority Mail and Express Mail flat-rate boxes and envelopes.

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    Step 13: Business Mail

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    Step 14: Select either "Postcard

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    Step 15: " "Letter

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    Step 16: " "Flat" or "Parcel."

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    Step 17: Input the weight for each individual piece of mail.

Detailed Guide

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