Here’s the deal: Flat Rate means you pay one price no matter what you shove inside, as long as it fits. Brick? Sure. Lead weights from your grandma’s curtains? Go for it.
The catch? The box must close without tape, string, or aggressive bending. It’s like a puzzle, but way more satisfying. So, let’s meet the crew.
The Small Flat Rate Box: The Tiny Powerhouse
First up is the Small Flat Rate Box. Its dimensions are a cozy 8-11/16" x 5-7/16" x 1-3/4". That’s basically a large paperback book or a box of fancy chocolates you swear you’ll share.
This little guy is perfect for electronics (like a used iPhone), jewelry, or a single pair of shoes. Just don’t try to mail a cat. Trust me, the post office frowns upon that.
The shipping cost? About $10.20 online. You’ll spend more on a sad sandwich.
The Medium Flat Rate Box: The Workhorse
Now we’re talking. The Medium Flat Rate Box comes in two flavors: the Top-Loading box (11-1/4" x 8-3/4" x 6") and the Side-Loading box (14" x 12" x 3-1/2"). Yes, it’s confusing, but think of them as “tall and squat” versus “long and flat.”
The Top-Loader is ideal for books, video games, or a suspiciously heavy coffee mug collection. The Side-Loader? Perfect for a framed photo or a stack of vinyl records (sorry, hipster friends, your dad’s Fleetwood Mac album fits).
Both cost around $16.10. You can fit a small blender, a sweater, or a whole lot of Halloween candy in here. Your choice.
The Large Flat Rate Box: The Behemoth
Get ready. The Large Flat Rate Box is a beast: 12" x 12" x 5-1/2". That’s a square chunk of space that can hold an entire board game (Monopoly, anyone? Please don’t).
Usps Flat Rate Padded Envelope Restrictions
This box is for the ambitious shippers. Think: a winter coat, a dozen books, or a small kitchen appliance you bought on a whim. The price is $21.90, which is still cheaper than a pizza delivery of the same volume.
Fun fact: You can fit a standard-issue cat carrier inside this box. But again, don’t mail the cat. The post office is very strict about that.
