How to Ship Packages With the USPS

There are several private carriers to choose from when you want to ship a package. But you may find the USPS can offer the same services and are much more convenient to use. For domestic and international shipments, you can't beat the postal service on cost, and they offer online tracking of your package as well as several other services. Even better, they offer free shipping supplies delivered right to your home so shipping packages is simple.

Things You'll Need

• Packaging materials
• Ruler
• Scales
• Printer

Instructions

1. Pack your items for shipping in a sturdy box with plenty of packaging materials. Even if your item isn't breakable, you need to fill every nook and cranny to ensure the box doesn't get crushed during shipment.

2. Go to the USPS website and set up a secure account under the tab entitled "Click 'n Ship." Here you can create your own shipping labels and pay for your postage using a credit card.

3. Weigh your package and measure the size of the box. Then click on the tab entitled "Print a Label" and follow the instructions. Delivery confirmation is free of charge and automatically included, but this is the point you can select other package services such as insurance or signature confirmation.

4. Tape the label onto your box so that all edges are secured after it prints.

5. Deliver your package to your local post office or schedule a pick up with your USPS carrier.

Tips & Warnings

• The postal service offers free priority mail boxes and envelopes in a variety of sizes as well as stickers and labels. Order them online, and they will ship them at no cost to you.

• Be sure and date your label for the same day you will mail your package. The USPS requires the label date to be the same day they take possession of your package.

• If you take your packages to the post office yourself, there's no need to wait in line since they are already labeled and ready to go. Just leave them on the counter and you're done.