How to Send a Package: Domestic

Learn how to use USPS® services to send packages (like boxes, tubes, and some large envelopes) inside the U.S. and to U.S. territories and military bases:

  • Send packages directly from your home (or office), using Click-N-Ship® service to do everything you need: Pay for postage, print shipping labels, and even Schedule a Pickup.
  • Or, get a few time-saving tips before you bring your package to a Post Office™ location.
  • If you just need to find the price of shipping a package, use the Postage Calculator.

Send Packages: Step-by-Step Instructions

Before You Start:

Things You’ll Need

  • The name and full address of the person or company you’re sending the package to.
  • Packaging materials (boxes, padding, and tape).
  • A way to pay for postage (if you’re sending from home, you’ll need stamps, or a printer if you’re using Click-N-Ship).
  • Recommended: A kitchen or postage scale (if you’re not using Flat Rate Boxes or Envelopes). Otherwise, you can weigh your package at the Post Office.
Step 1: Ask, “Can I Send This?”

The maximum weight for a USPS package is 70 lbs. Also, there are some things that you can’t send at all (prohibited) and other things you can only send under certain conditions (restricted). Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) might be prohibited or restricted.

 

As a rule of thumb, if what you’re sending could harm people or cause damage (like lithium batteries), very carefully check the list of Domestic Shipping Prohibitions, Restrictions, & HAZMAT.

 

Prohibited Items

Some items are prohibited (completely forbidden): You can’t send them through USPS, so you’ll have to choose another carrier. Prohibited items include:

  • Ammunition, explosives, and fireworks
  • Items containing liquid mercury
  • Alcoholic beverages

Restricted Items

Other items are restricted: You have to follow the rules, stick to any limits, and properly package and label your items. Restricted items include:

  • Lithium batteries (like the ones that come installed inside small electronics, like laptop computers or cell phones) are usually OK to send if the items are new (or a manufacturer-certified repair); if the items are used, they can only be sent via ground transport (can’t go on planes).
  • Perishable items (like plants or food) are generally OK to send as long as they are properly packaged and won’t spoil or leak.
  • Some items have special packaging requirements, or can only be sent via ground transport, like perfumes containing alcohol.

You have to follow all laws and USPS regulations. If you don’t follow the rules, you might face fines, or even criminal penalties.

If you have any questions about what you may ship through USPS, review the restricted and prohibited items list.

Step 2: Choose a Shipping Service

USPS offers 5 core shipping services for your domestic packages. Start by looking at what you’re sending, then make your decision based on price, speed, and whether you need insurance, tracking, and other extra services.

Compare All USPS Domestic Mail & Shipping Services

Fastest Delivery Speed

Fast air delivery for your most important mail and packages (with some Flat Rate options).

Simple, Affordable, Reliable

Save money shipping packages by ground.

Postcards & Envelopes

Mail, like postcards, letters in small envelopes (up to 3.5 oz), and large envelopes (up to 13 oz).

Only at the Post Office5

Go to the Post Office to ship heavier items like books and educational material.

Priority Mail Express®

Priority Mail®

USPS Ground Advantage™

First-Class Mail®

Media Mail®

You’re sending something urgent that must arrive next-day or 2-day.1 You need date-certain delivery with a money-back guarantee.2

You’re sending important items that need to arrive in 1-3 business days.3

Low rates for packages with expected delivery in 2-5 business days4 (also the primary option for HAZMAT items that can’t travel by air).

You’re sending a letter envelope (under 3.5 oz) or large envelope (under 13 oz) that’s flat and bends easily.

You’re sending only books (or other eligible media) and want the most affordable price.

Compare All USPS Domestic Mail & Shipping Services

 

Choosing a USPS shipping service depends on where it’s going, how much you want to spend, how quickly you want it to arrive, what you’re sending (the contents of the package and its size, shape, and weight), plus any tracking or other special features you want to add.

For example, for packages up to 70 lbs, consider using USPS Ground Advantage, which will take about 2-5 business days to arrive. If it has to arrive faster, you can use Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail service.

See more details and features: Mail & Shipping Services

NOTE: You would also use USPS Ground Advantage if you’re trying to send packages that can’t travel by air because of the contents (such as items that contain HAZMAT or live animals).

Step 3: Pick & Prepare Your Packaging

Whether you’re using a box, padded envelope, or tube, use packaging that doesn’t bulge and is strong enough to protect what you’re sending. And accurately measure the size and weight of your package so you can avoid unexpected fees.