USPS - Mail Characteristics - Sizes for Parcels

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	Sizes for Parcels

If your mailpiece isn’t a postcard, letter, or a flat (large envelope), then it’s a parcel. You may be surprised to find out that "parcels" are not just big boxes. Many mailers send small parcels in all classes of mail. Parcels offer some of the best value for your postage dollars.

Parcel Dimensions

Generally, commercial parcels must measure:

At least 3 inches high x 6 inches long x ¼ inch thick, and at least 6 ounces.
Except for Parcel Post and Parcel Select, no mailpiece may measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. Length is the measurement of the longest dimension and girth is the distance around the thickest part (perpendicular to the length). Maximum weight is 70 pounds.

	Machinable Parcels If you prepare your parcels so that they can be processed on Postal Service equipment, your parcel is considered “machinable.” Machinable parcels are easier to process and deliver, so they are less expensive to mail. Machinable parcels must measure no more than: No more than 17 inches high x 34 inches long x 17 inches thick. No more than 35 pounds (25 pounds for books or other printed matter). More about Physical Standards for Commercial Parcels More about Commercial Parcels - Parcel Select Balloon and Oversized Prices for Parcels Some parcels may be subject to specialized prices. Priority Mail (zones 1-4) and Parcel Post and Parcel Select packages that are large but very light (less than 20 pounds) get charged the postage for a 20 pound package. This is often referred to as a balloon price. Very large Parcel Post or Parcel Select packages (over 108 inches but not more than 130 inches in combined length and girth) get charged an oversized price. Sizes for postcards Sizes for letters Sizes for flats