Flat rate shipping

Flat rate shipping means you pay a set fee for sending a box of a certain size and it means taking your items to a USPS Post Office, using one of their boxes free of charge and paying for your shipping at the counter based on the size of the box you need.

You can order these boxes online from the USPS or pick them up at the Post Office. Smaller boxes are generally cheaper, so pack up your goods in the correct size box to get the best value for money.

It is also a term used in the world of eCommerce where all your customers pay a ‘flat rate’ for shipping whether they are buying large and heavy items from you or smaller lightweight goods. 

How much is flat rate shipping?

The cost of sending a package on a flat rate service will vary on how big the box you are sending is, where you are shipping to and how quickly you would like it to get delivered.

If you use the Parcel Monkey shipping calculator, you can see exactly how much it is going to cost to ship your package, plus you can compare a number of shipping rates from well-known courier companies all in one place and choose the best value for money service.

At the Post Office, you can choose what size of box you need ranging from envelopes to large boxes. If you already have a box, just get a price using Parcel Monkey.

Which couriers offer flat rate shipping?

Flat rate shipping is most commonly booked at the Post Office. We offer USPS services at a discounted rate, so you do not have to send a large volume of packages to enjoy better prices. Simply book the service online, print off the shipping labels and drop into any USPS Post Office at a time that suits you.

FedEx offer flat rate shipping and you can book a range of discounted domestic and international FedEx services using Parcel Monkey.

Can I book a courier to come and pick up my box?

If you don’t have time to head to the Post Office and queue up to ship a package, you can compare shipping rates online using Parcel Monkey and book a courier to come and pick up your package from your home or work address on a day of your choice.

Flat rate international shipping

We offer a range of courier services for international packages including USPS Priority. However, we don’t offer the flat rate shipping service. Instead, you will only pay for the size and weight of your package based on where it is going and how quickly.

Transit times and prices will vary depending on where you are shipping to but our shipping calculator will provide you with further information based on your details.

Key information about USPS flat rate shipping

• The package will be tracked

• You can add insurance cover

• Drop Off at any USPS Post Office

• Ship all kinds of items as long as it fits in the box

• Generous weight limits - up to 70lbs max.

• Discounted shipping rates by booking online and printing labels

• Use clear packaging tape when packing box

• Check the prohibited items list for restrictions

Using flat rate shipping for eCommerce

Shipping is a significant part of being an online retailer and the competition of Amazon Prime has increased consumer expectations up massively with free and fast delivery now often expected.

eCommerce businesses and sellers can use flat rate shipping to charge the same amount for shipping any items they sell regardless of size or weight which is a good idea if you cannot afford to offer free shipping.

However, this might take some research to ensure you don’t lose out in the long run. You would need to be sure not undercharging buyers whilst also not putting them off by charging large prices.

 

• If you sell a range of items of various size and weight it may not be profitable to use flat rate shipping

• Customers might be put off having to pay a large shipping fee for a small or cheap item

• If the shopper knows the shipping costs upfront, they are then less likely to drop out of the purchase

• If you can offer free shipping - it is likely to entice more customers and more sales

You can learn more about what couriers do and which type of courier service might be best for you here.