Parcel Post

Parcel Post Mail Service U.S. Postal Service Shipping Merchandise Printed Matter Postal Inspection Package Dimensions
Parcel Post is a class of mail service offered by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for mailing merchandise or printed matter weighing more than 16 ounces. Specific guidelines apply regarding the inspection, weight, and dimensions of the packages.
On this page

Definition

Parcel Post is a class of mail service provided by the United States Postal Service (USPS) for mailing merchandise or printed matter that exceeds 16 ounces in weight. The service caters to items that are too heavy for standard First Class mail but are not large enough to require a freight service.

The key features of Parcel Post are:

  1. Weight Specifications: Items must weigh more than 16 ounces but the maximum weight limit per package is 70 pounds.
  2. Size Limitations: The length plus girth of the package cannot exceed 108 inches.
  3. Postal Inspections: The contents of the Parcel Post packages are subject to postal inspection to ensure compliance with USPS regulations.
  4. Special Rules and Rates: Specific items may have additional requirements or incur different rate structures.

Examples

  1. Books and Printed Materials: A college textbook weighing 20 ounces can be shipped using Parcel Post.
  2. Clothing Items: A winter jacket weighing 3 pounds can be shipped using Parcel Post.
  3. Household Goods: A small kitchen appliance weighing 50 pounds can be shipped via Parcel Post.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items can be sent via Parcel Post?

Parcel Post can be used to ship merchandise and printed matter weighing over 16 ounces but not exceeding 70 pounds.

What is the maximum size allowed for Parcel Post packages?

The combined length and girth of the package must not exceed 108 inches.

Are Parcel Post packages subject to inspection?

Yes, items sent via Parcel Post are subject to postal inspection by the USPS.

Can Parcel Post be used for international shipments?

No, Parcel Post is a domestic service for shipments within the United States.

Are there any items restricted from being sent via Parcel Post?

Yes, USPS has a list of restricted and prohibited items that cannot be sent through any mail service, including Parcel Post.

  • First Class Mail: A standard mail service for letters, postcards, and small packages weighing up to 16 ounces.
  • Media Mail: A cost-effective service for shipping educational materials such as books and media.
  • Priority Mail: A faster mail service with delivery within 1-3 business days for packages and letters.

Online References

  1. USPS Parcel Post
  2. USPS Mailing Restrictions

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  1. Mail Management in the Modern Age by Robert Kittel
  2. The Handbook of Logistics and Distribution Management by Alan Rushton & Phil Croucher
  3. USPS Domestic Mail Manual by United States Postal Service

Fundamentals of Parcel Post: Transportation Basics Quiz

### What is the minimum weight requirement for a Parcel Post package? - [ ] 8 ounces - [x] 16 ounces - [ ] 32 ounces - [ ] 64 ounces > **Explanation:** The minimum weight for Parcel Post is more than 16 ounces. Any package below this weight would fall under a different mail service category. ### What is the maximum weight limit for Parcel Post packages? - [ ] 50 pounds - [ ] 60 pounds - [x] 70 pounds - [ ] 80 pounds > **Explanation:** The maximum weight allowed for a Parcel Post package is 70 pounds. Packages exceeding this weight must use alternative shipping methods. ### What is the combined length and girth limit for Parcel Post packages? - [ ] 88 inches - [ ] 98 inches - [ ] 108 inches - [x] 108 inches > **Explanation:** The USPS specifies that the combined length plus girth of a Parcel Post package cannot exceed 108 inches. ### Are Parcel Post packages subject to USPS inspection? - [x] Yes, all packages are subject to inspection - [ ] No, they are not inspected - [ ] Only if the package exceeds 50 pounds - [ ] Only printed matter > **Explanation:** All Parcel Post packages are subject to USPS inspection to ensure they comply with regulations and do not contain restricted items. ### Can Parcel Post be used for sending packages internationally? - [ ] Yes, but only to Canada - [x] No, it is a domestic service - [ ] Yes, it can be sent anywhere in the world - [ ] Yes, but restrictions apply > **Explanation:** Parcel Post is a domestic mail service only and cannot be used for international shipments. ### What kind of items might have special rules or rates when using Parcel Post? - [ ] Electronic gadgets - [ ] Furniture - [x] Hazardous materials - [ ] Soft toys > **Explanation:** Hazardous materials and certain other categories of items have special rules or may incur different rate structures when being mailed via Parcel Post. ### Which USPS service cannot be used for sending books and educational materials? - [ ] First-Class Mail - [x] Parcel Post - [ ] Media Mail - [ ] Priority Mail > **Explanation:** While Media Mail is specifically designed for educational materials like books, Parcel Post is not optimized for such items although it can still be used if the conditions are met. ### What happens if a Parcel Post package exceeds the dimension limit? - [x] It will be charged differently or refused - [ ] It will be accepted with no extra charge - [ ] It will be redirected to another service - [ ] It will be delivered with a delay > **Explanation:** Exceeding the dimension limit (length plus girth of 108 inches) typically results in additional charges or may require the package to use a different mail service. ### Who offers the Parcel Post service? - [ ] FedEx - [ ] UPS - [x] USPS - [ ] DHL > **Explanation:** Parcel Post is a service offered only by the United States Postal Service (USPS). ### Which type of mail service is typically used for smaller, lighter packages and letters? - [x] First-Class Mail - [ ] Parcel Post - [ ] Media Mail - [ ] Priority Mail > **Explanation:** First-Class Mail is typically used for lighter packages and letters weighing up to 16 ounces.

Thank you for exploring Parcel Post and testing your knowledge with our quiz! Continue learning and stay informed about USPS mailing services.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Pareto's Law
Parcel
Cargo January 1, 1

Accounting Terms Lexicon

Discover comprehensive accounting definitions and practical insights. Empowering students and professionals with clear and concise explanations for a better understanding of financial terms.