Flat Rate Box question?

[Former_Member]

I have a few used flat rate boxes that I want to recycle and reuse. I always save boxes to reuse for packaging sales. In this case, some of them are flat rate. Would it be okay to cut them up into smaller boxes and clearly write "not a flat rate box"? I saw on the box today that it said "misuse may be a violation of federal law." Would recycling it be considered misuse?

Thanks!

[Former_Member]

I think any USPS packaging that is labeled as the original packaging cannot be re-used as something different.

I've heard my post lady tell plenty of people who try to use a flat rate box to send regular mail, "If it says Flat Rate on box, it ships flat rate. No exceptions."

[Former_Member]

I think that misuse is when you order a lot of flat rate boxes from the post office and use them for packing for a move, instead of shipping items. I think as long as it has been used, it is fine to go ahead and cut it up for reuse. Odds are it would just go into the recycling bin anyway.

[WildflowerSalvage]

I wouldn't mess with a flat rate box. I ordered something once from someone who wrapped a flat rate box and USPS charged me the price difference between what the sender sent and actual flat rate price. It left a sour taste in my mouth. It would stink to have your customer charged the extra shipping. Recycle this box in a recycle bin:)

[Former_Member]

I specifically asked if the flat rate boxes could be mailed priority if cheaper, and they said no, only the flat rate price.

If you cut it up, they might still charge you the flat rate, or not allow you to mail at all.

[Former_Member]

The box is recognizable, especially to the post office. Do you really think they should be expected to sort the flat rate boxes from the "not a flat rate" box?

I understand the desire to re-use a perfectly good box - I've had the same thought - but I am sure the post office would tell you not to do it!

[Former_Member]

What if I turned it inside out? It still says priority mail, but it doesn't say if it's flat rate or not.

[Former_Member]

I think you should ask at your post office just to be sure, i.e., turning it inside out. I think since they are providing the boxes "free," that they may not like that either.

[ACraftyObsession]

If they find out you are miss using it you might get in trouble.

[Former_Member]

From what I understand, you're not supposed to turn the box inside out. If they catch it, they'll charge you (or your customer) the additional postage.

"Express Mail and Priority Mail packaging provided by the USPS must be used only for Express Mail or Priority Mail, as applicable. Regardless of how the packaging is reconfigured or how markings may be obliterated, any matter mailed in USPS-provided Express Mail or Priority Mail packaging is charged the appropriate Express Mail or Priority Mail price."

http://pe.usps.com/text/DMM300/601.htm#1064805