Can You Use USPS Flat Rate Boxes for International Shipping?
Yes! Learn how USPS Flat Rate boxes work for international shipping. Compare rates and find out when flat rate saves you money.
USPS International Flat Rate: Complete Guide
Yes, you can use USPS Flat Rate boxes for international shipping! Here's everything you need to know.
International Flat Rate Options
| Box Size | Rate (Zone 1-4) | Max Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small | $28.50 | 4 lbs |
| Medium | $52.00 | 20 lbs |
| Large | $69.00 | 20 lbs |
When Flat Rate Saves Money
Flat Rate Wins:
| Scenario | Flat Rate | Regular | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lbs to UK | $52.00 | $68.00 | $16 |
| 8 lbs to Germany | $52.00 | $85.00 | $33 |
| 15 lbs to Japan | $69.00 | $125.00 | $56 |
| Scenario | Flat Rate | Regular | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lb to Canada | $28.50 | $18.50 | $10 |
| 2 lbs to Mexico | $28.50 | $22.00 | $6.50 |
International Flat Rate Countries
Available to 180+ countries including:
- Canada, Mexico (cheapest zones)
- UK, Germany, France
- Australia, Japan
- Most of South America
- Most of Africa
Box Restrictions
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use correct box | Flat Rate box required |
| Weight limit | 4 lbs (small), 20 lbs (medium/large) |
| Contents | Same as regular international |
| Prohibited | Varies by country |
Customs Requirements
Same as regular international:
Getting Free Flat Rate Boxes
Order free USPS Flat Rate boxes:
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| USPS.com | Free delivery to your address |
| Post Office | Pick up in-store |
| atoship | Order through dashboard |
Flat Rate vs Priority Mail International
| Feature | Flat Rate | Regular PMI |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Fixed by box | By weight/zone |
| Box required | Yes, specific | Any packaging |
| Max weight | 20 lbs | 70 lbs |
| Size limits | Box size | 108" combined |
Pro Tips
1. Compare Every Time
Use atoship's rate calculator to compare flat rate vs regular pricing for each shipment.
2. Heavy Items = Flat Rate
Generally, flat rate wins when shipping 4+ lbs.
3. Light Items = Regular
For under 2 lbs, regular Priority Mail International usually wins.
4. Consider Transit Time
Both flat rate and regular Priority Mail International have same delivery times (6-10 days).
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