How to Calculate the Girth for USPS

Comply with USPS mailing requirements for parcels.

The United States Postal Service has limitations on parcels acceptable for mailing. Weight limits are 70 lbs. for most parcels, and lower limits apply for First-Class, Standard Mail and Bound Printed Matter and some foreign shipments. Size limits also apply, and you need to know the girth of a parcel to determine if your package falls within the size limitations of the USPS. The Domestic Mail Manual regulates mailing in the United States. The International Mail Manual controls international shipping with consideration for destination country regulations as well as USPS regulations.

Things You'll Need

• Package wrapping supplies
• Flexible measuring tape

Instructions

1. Wrap the package for mailing. The package should not rattle and should comply with USPS requirements for hazardous materials. It should weigh less than 70 lbs. when wrapping is completed.

2. Measure the length of the package with a paper tape measure or fabric flexible tape used by dressmakers. These measuring tapes provide flexibility you will need. The length is the measurement of the longest side. Record this measurement to use later for calculations.

3. Measure the distance around the package at the widest point, going all around the package with the flexible tape. Record this measurement. This is the actual girth of the parcel, but the USPS does not use only the girth to calculate package measurements. If the package is square or rectangular, you can measure the two longest sides, add the two together and multiply by 2 to confirm your measurement. This calculation accounts for all four sides of the parcel.

4. Add the measurement for the longest side plus the girth to arrive at the combined length and girth of the package. This is the measurement used by the USPS for your package. The USPS does not accept packages in excess of 108 inches unless you mail Parcel Post. A parcel post shipment that does not weigh more than 70 lbs. can measure 130 inches in length and girth.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the USPS for APO/FPO size and weight measurements and check the International Mail Manual for international size and weight measurements. The measuring process is the same but some countries impose lower size and weight requirements.

• Be aware of balloon pricing for parcels measuring more than 84 inches in length and girth. Parcels addressed to Zones 1 through 4 that measure more than 84 inches ship for the 20 lb. rate, regardless of weight. Zones 1 through 4 are those closest to your mailing location.

References

• United States Postal Service: DMM 101 -- Physical Standards
• United States Postal Service: IMM 140 -- International Mail Categories