Flat rate shipping question-

[Former_Member]

Hi everyone!
So I have a piece I'm going to mail out- problem is I'm using a flat rate box to save on shipping (item is 5 lbs) and the item is 1" too big for the largest flat rate box. Will the post office accept it, still?
If not then its a sad day haha

Thanks!
Kelly

[Former_Member]

In my experience, I do love the flat rate boxes, but the item(s) do have to completely fit to ship in their flat rate boxes for that rate. You might want to check their website to determine the cost of priority shipping the full weight to the destination to see if the shipping charge is the same or cheaper.

I often use their flat rate-C that is 14"-11"-11" and goes up to 25 lbs, so yours might be cheaper than that with your weight being much lower.

I wish you well.

Cocokate

[PiecesOfMePaperCraft]

I found this on USPS.com regarding flat rate boxes:

When sealing a Flat Rate Envelope or Flat Rate Box, the container flaps must be able to close within the normal folds.

Does that help with your predicament?

[Former_Member]

My coasters barely fit in flat rate boxes. I put my coasters in an unfolded box and fold the box around the coasters, taping as I go. I've never had a problem. I say try it and find out. Use a lot of tape and make sure you have your return address on there!

[SpangGangDesigns]

Some of my orders push the limits of the envelopes/boxes - but I've never had to do anything extreme. I was a little nervous about some of my blocks fitting in the envelope, but I took an example package to the post office and asked if it was okay. I got the approval and have had no problem since. Recommend having it "ok'd" before sending off precious cargo. If the package does not abide by the "rules", I'd hate to have a customer's purchase in jeopardy.

[Former_Member]

Our local USPS man made a comment once that people come in re-using Flat Rate boxes/envelopes, which is great, but they are used so much that they get warped and if the box is altered from its normal measurements, flaps won't close, etc, then it's no longer Flat Rate and the customer is charged extra for shipping.