1. Place the item to be shipped in a sturdy, unmarked box and surround it with crinkled up newspapers, shredded paper or packaging peanuts for protection. Close the box and shake it. If you hear your item shifting around, add more cushioning.
2. Tape the box shut, using clear or brown packaging tape. Tape should be applied along the opening and along all seams for reinforcement.
3. Measure the width, length and height of the box in inches. Add the measurements together and verify that the total is below 130 inches. For example, if you measured a box 24 inches by 36 inches by 24 inches, the combined value is 84 inches, which is a suitable size. If the total is more than 130 inches, you will need to get a smaller box, separate the items into two boxes or choose a different delivery method.If you are using a flat-rate box, measuring will be unnecessary.
4. Weigh the package on a postage scale and verify that it is under 70 pounds. If it is not, you cannot use parcel post. Note the shipping weight, because this will be used in determining your shipping cost. If you are using a flat-rate box, weight will not affect your shipping fee.
5. Go the the USPS 'Postage Price Calculator' website and enter the source and destination zip codes, date, size, shape and weight of your parcel to determine the shipping cost. You can also follow the online instructions to purchase and print a label online. The shipping label can be printed on special adhesive paper or regular printer paper, which can be taped to the box.
6. Write the address of the recipient in the top-center of the box and the sender address in the upper-left corner. If you have a shipping label, tape it in place with clear packaging tape, rather than write out all the information.
7. Locate a nearby USPS location by phone or by using their online 'Services Locator.' Drop off the package if the postage is prepaid and the package is labeled. Otherwise, speak to a representative to pay for the postage and have it shipped.
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