How to Calculate Postage Cost
When mailing something through the United States Postal Service, you have to be sure your envelope or parcel has enough postage on it. In the past, the only way to know exactly how much something would cost to mail would be to stand in the line at your local post office so the clerk could tell you. Today, you can look up the rates online and can affix the proper postage as long as you know the size and weight of your mail.
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Instructions
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Weigh your envelope or parcel using a postage scale. You also can use a kitchen food scale -- any scale that measures ounces accurately.
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Measure the length, height and width of your item, especially if it is a package.
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Find the postage price calculator on the USPS.com website: From the main page, click on "Calculate a Price" on the left.
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Use the drop-down menu to select the destination of the item you want to mail, and type in the ZIP codes of where you are mailing it from and where it is going.
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Select the shape of what you are mailing: postcard, envelope, large envelope, small package or large package.
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Enter the weight of your item, and click on the "Continue" link. The next page shows you the different price options by class that you have mail your item, including first class mail, express mail and priority mail.
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Tips & Warnings
There also are options for flat-rate envelopes and boxes available through USPS if you prefer. The rates already are determined, and you do not need to weigh or measure your item as long as it fits completely inside the envelope or box you choose.
Digital postage scales are more accurate. Manual postage scales will work but are more prone to human error.
References
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