How to Use the US Post Office Online Exculsively

Avoid the US Post Office

The USPS is making it easy to never step foot in a US Post Office again! That means no more long waits during the holiday mailing rush and no more carrying heavy boxes from your house to the car and into the nearest post office. Instead, you can take care of the majority of your USPS needs without ever leaving your house...that is, except to walk to your mailbox.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer

Instructions

1. 

   Order postage supplies online. The USPS sells postage stamps, mailing boxes, even packing supplies through their website. You can have them all shipped directly to your house or business. If you run an Ebay business you can get free shipping supplies (mailed directly to you) thanks to a cooperation between the US Post Office and Ebay.

2. 

   Take advantage of the Forever Stamp so you don't have to run to the nearest post office to pick up 2 cent stamps when there's a first class rate hike. For more on how to save money on USPS postage by using the Forever Stamp see the link in the Resources Section below.

3. 

   Calculate postage rates online. First, do a zip code look up. It doesn't always cost the same to send mail to someone across town, as it does to send it across the country. Weigh the envelope or package with a postage scale (or use a kitchen scale, then add an ounce or two so you're not short) and measure the length, width and height. This will give you a fairly accurate idea of how much it will cost to ship through the US Postal Service.

4. If your postage costs more than a few stamps to mail, print postage from your home computer. You can print domestic and international shipping labels. There are no special machines you need besides a computer and printer. The cost of the postage will simply be charged to your credit card. You'll also save a small percentage by purchasing postage this way, instead of at the u s post office. You can also buy insurance and delivery confirmation online.

5. 

   Once your package is ready to go, request a free carrier pick up. Your mailman will pick it up at your front door or your mailbox. First class packages will only be picked up by the USPS if there's a higher class package with it (for example if you're shipping a first class padded envelope and a priority mail or overnight box). That doesn't mean you have to go to the post office though, drop anything less than 13 ounces into a blue mail box.

6. 

   The USPS will even track your package online and send you an email confirmation when it arrives at its destination.

Tips & Warnings

• If your package weighs more than 13 ounces be sure to print out postage online. Do not put first class stamps on it or you will have to take it into a post office to mail it.

• You can also change your address, have your mail held, or apply for a passport online through the US Post Office.

Resources

• Using the Forever Stamp to Save Money on USPS Postage