1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:01,000 [intro music] 2 00:00:01,500 --> 00:00:04,000 The United States Postal Service(R) Presents 3 00:00:02,000 --> 00:00:05,000 How to Send a Package: Domestic 4 00:00:07,000 --> 00:00:08,000 Things You'll Need: 5 00:00:08,000 --> 00:00:11,000 The name and full address of the person or company you're sending the package to. 6 00:00:11,000 --> 00:00:14,000 Packaging materials like boxes, padding, and tape. 7 00:00:15,000 --> 00:00:20,000 Stamps or a way to pay for postage or a printer if you're using our Click-N-Ship(R) service. 8 00:00:20,000 --> 00:00:26,000 Tip: Weigh your package with a kitchen or postal scale, or at a Post Office(TM) location. Or, use a Flat Rate option. 9 00:00:27,000 --> 00:00:28,000 Step 1: Ask, "Can I Send This?" 10 00:00:29,000 --> 00:00:31,000 Packages must not weigh more than 70 lbs. 11 00:00:31,500 --> 00:00:38,000 Some things are prohibited (can't be mailed at all); others are restricted (you can mail them under certain conditions). 12 00:00:44,000 --> 00:00:47,000 Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) might be prohibited or restricted. 13 00:00:48,000 --> 00:00:51,000 If what you're sending could harm people or cause damage (like lithium batteries), 14 00:00:52,000 --> 00:00:58,000 very carefully check the list of Domestic Shipping Prohibitions, Restrictions, & HAZMAT at usps.com/restrictions. 15 00:00:59,000 --> 00:01:02,000 Step 2: Choose a Shipping Service 16 00:01:03,000 --> 00:01:05,000 USPS offers 5 core shipping services for your domestic packages. 17 00:01:06,000 --> 00:01:08,000 Start by looking at what you're sending, 18 00:01:09,000 --> 00:01:15,000 then decide based on price, speed, and if you need insurance, tracking, or other extra services. 19 00:01:18,000 --> 00:01:20,000 Priority Mail Express(R) and Priority Mail(R) Services Fast air delivery for your most important mail and packages. 20 00:01:21,000 --> 00:01:22,000 USPS Ground Advantage(R) Service - Save money shipping packages by ground – and ship HAZMAT items that can't travel by air. 21 00:01:23,000 --> 00:01:25,000 First-Class Mail(R) Service - Large envelopes (under 13 oz) that are flat and bend easily. 22 00:01:26,000 --> 00:01:30,000 Media Mail(R) Service - An affordable way to send books and other eligible media from a Post Office™ location. 23 00:01:32,000 --> 00:01:35,000 Visit usps.com/services to learn more and compare options. 24 00:01:36,000 --> 00:01:37,000 Step 3: Pick & Prepare Your Packaging 25 00:01:38,000 --> 00:01:39,000 Whether you're using a box, padded envelope, or tube, 26 00:01:39,500 --> 00:01:44,500 use strong packaging and enough cushioning to protect your item. 27 00:01:45,000 --> 00:01:52,000 For Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services, get free packaging at Post Office locations or online at usps.com/shop. 28 00:01:55,000 --> 00:01:58,000 Secure all seams with 2-inch-wide packing tape. 29 00:01:59,000 --> 00:02:02,000 Do not use string (it gets caught in the equipment). 30 00:02:04,000 --> 00:02:12,000 Measure and weigh your package after you pack and seal it to avoid unexpected fees. 31 00:02:13,000 --> 00:02:14,000 Step 4: Address Your Package 32 00:02:15,000 --> 00:02:23,000 Write the address parallel to the longest side of the package, and put your return address, the delivery address, and postage on the same side. 33 00:02:24,000 --> 00:02:29,000 Tip: If you print a shipping label online (with postage included), you don't need a separate address label. 34 00:02:31,000 --> 00:02:33,000 Step 5: Calculate Postage (& Add Insurance or Extra Services) 35 00:02:34,000 --> 00:02:37,000 Postage is the price you pay to send something plus any extra services you might buy. 36 00:02:39,000 --> 00:02:47,000 To see how much you'll need to pay, use the USPS Postage Calculator at postcalc.usps.com (and it helps to have a scale handy). 37 00:02:48,000 --> 00:02:49,000 To pay for postage, you can: 38 00:02:50,000 --> 00:02:56,000 Visit a Post Office location and either go to the counter or use a self-service kiosk. - Find one near you at usps.com/postoffice. 39 00:02:57,000 --> 00:02:59,500 Use stamps (you might need a lot). 40 00:03:00,000 --> 00:03:06,000 Buy and print your postage online using our Click-N-Ship service. 41 00:03:07,000 --> 00:03:14,000 Visit cns.usps.com to learn more, including your options even if you don't have a printer. 42 00:03:16,000 --> 00:03:20,000 Whether you use stamps or printed postage, postage goes in the top-right corner of your package. 43 00:03:21,000 --> 00:03:21,500 Step 6: Ship Your Package 44 00:03:22,000 --> 00:03:26,000 To ship your package, you have a few options: 45 00:03:27,000 --> 00:03:30,000 Put it in your mailbox for carrier pickup. 46 00:03:31,000 --> 00:03:36,000 Drop it in a blue collection box or Post Office lobby drop-off box. 47 00:03:37,000 --> 00:03:42,000 Request a free pickup. Visit usps.com/pickup to check availability. 48 00:03:44,000 --> 00:03:47,000 However, for shipments of restricted items or stamped packages over 1/2" thick or 10 oz in weight, 49 00:03:48,000 --> 00:03:52,000 you'll need to take your package to a Post Office counter. 50 00:03:54,000 --> 00:04:00,000 For more information, visit usps.com/howtosend. 51 00:04:03,000 --> 00:04:06,000 (C)2024 United States Postal Service. All Rights Reserved. The Eagle Logo is among the many trademarks of the U.S. Postal Service. Privacy Notice: For information regarding our privacy policies, visit usps.com/privacypolicy.