When it comes to saving money on shipping, the United States Postal Service (USPS) offers an amazing resource that not everyone knows about: free mailing supplies from USPS. Whether you’re running an e-commerce business or just sending packages to loved ones, USPS makes it easy to access the essentials without extra costs. Here’s everything you need to know about this convenient service and how to take advantage of it.
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What Free Supplies Does USPS Offer?
USPS provides a variety of free supplies primarily for use with Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services. Here’s a list of the most common items you can get at no charge:
- Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes: Available in multiple sizes, including small, medium, and large.
- Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes: Includes padded, legal-sized, and standard options.
- Priority Mail Express Envelopes: Perfect for time-sensitive deliveries.
- Shipping Labels and Stickers: Includes “Priority Mail” and “Caution Heavy” labels to properly mark your packages.
- Custom Forms Envelopes: Useful for international shipping.
- Postal Tubes: Ideal for mailing rolled documents or posters.
How to Get Free USPS Supplies
1. Visit Your Local Post Office
You can pick up free Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express supplies directly from most USPS locations. Supplies are typically displayed in the lobby for easy access.
2. Order Online
The easiest way to get free USPS supplies is by ordering them online at USPS.com. Simply create a free account, browse the shipping supplies section, and place your order. Best of all, USPS delivers these supplies right to your door at no cost.
- Go to the USPS Website
Visit the USPS shipping supplies page. - Log in or Create an Account
- If you already have a USPS account, log in.
- If you don’t have an account, click “Sign Up” in the top-right corner and follow the prompts to create one.
- Navigate to Free Supplies
- Once logged in, hover over the “Shop” menu and click “Shipping Supplies.”
- Look for the “Free Shipping Supplies” section or filter the list by checking the “Free Supplies” box on the left-hand side.
- Browse and Select Supplies
- Browse through the available free supplies.
- Click on the items you need, such as Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes, envelopes, or stickers.
- Select the quantity (many items are available in packs).
- Add Items to Your Cart
- Once you’ve chosen your items, click “Add to Cart.”
- You can view your cart at any time by clicking the cart icon in the upper right corner.
- Complete Your Order
- When you’ve finished selecting your supplies, click “Proceed to Checkout.”
- Review your shipping address (supplies are shipped to you for free).
- Submit your order. You’ll receive a confirmation email with order details.
- Wait for Delivery
- Free supplies typically arrive within 3-5 business days, though delivery times may vary during peak seasons.
3. Bulk Orders for Businesses
If you’re a small business owner or ship frequently, you can order larger quantities of supplies. Many options are available in bulk at no charge.
How to Use Free USPS Supplies
It’s important to note that these supplies are designated specifically for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services. For example:
- If you’re using a Priority Mail Flat Rate Box, you’ll need to pay the flat-rate shipping fee when sending your package.
- Free supplies cannot be used for other USPS services like First-Class Mail or Parcel Select Ground.
Benefits of Using Free USPS Supplies
Taking advantage of free mailing supplies comes with several benefits:
- Cost Savings: Eliminate the need to purchase boxes, envelopes, or labels elsewhere.
- Standardized Sizes: USPS boxes and envelopes are specifically designed for efficient shipping, helping to avoid extra fees for odd-sized packages.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Reuse USPS supplies whenever possible to reduce waste.
Tips for Making the Most of USPS Free Supplies
- Order Ahead: Supplies can run out at local post offices, so plan ahead, especially during the busy holiday season.
- Pair with Free Package Pickup: Save even more time and money by scheduling free USPS package pickups. Your mail carrier will collect your outgoing mail directly from your doorstep.
- Track Shipments: Use the tracking feature included with Priority Mail services to ensure your package arrives safely.
Conclusion
Free mailing supplies from USPS are a fantastic way to cut down on shipping costs while enjoying the convenience of professional-grade materials. Whether you’re sending occasional packages or managing a bustling e-commerce business, taking advantage of these freebies is a smart way to save money and streamline your shipping process.
So, the next time you’re preparing to send a package, remember to check out the free supplies from USPS. With a little planning, you can ship smarter without spending extra on boxes and envelopes.
Featured Image Source: Flickr
