
Shipping packages overseas can be a daunting task, but with the right information, it becomes a breeze. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers various international shipping options, including First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS) and Priority Mail International (PMI).
You can ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds with FCPIS, which takes 6-20 business days to arrive. This service is ideal for lightweight items. Priority Mail International, on the other hand, is faster and more reliable, taking 6-10 business days to arrive.
To make international shipping even easier, the USPS provides a handy online calculator that helps you determine the cost and estimated delivery time of your package. This tool takes into account the package's weight, dimensions, and destination country.
Delivery Options
You've got a package to send overseas and you're not sure where to start. USPS offers a range of international delivery options to fit your needs.
USPS tools can help you with customs forms, including new requirements for more-detailed descriptions of contents in packages sent to countries that follow European Union (EU) customs rules.
You can choose from different delivery speeds and postage prices, with options like Flat Rate shipping or included tracking and insurance. Some extra services are available online, while others are only available at a Post Office location.
For affordable options, USPS offers value-priced shipping with options for Flat Rate pricing or pricing by weight. This can be a great choice for sending small packages or large envelopes.
Here are some key details about USPS international mail services:
You can also compare USPS mail services by starting retail prices, shipping time, and more. Most services automatically include USPS Tracking, and you can add insurance and extra services as needed.
USPS Services
The USPS offers a range of international mail services, including Priority Mail International, First-Class Package International Service, and First-Class Mail International. These services provide varying levels of delivery speed and postage prices.
For small packages, the First-Class Package International Service is a cost-effective option, with a weight limit of 4 pounds and a value limit of $400. This service is available at both USPS Post Offices and online.
If you need to ship larger packages, the Priority Mail International service offers a flat rate pricing option, as well as pricing based on weight and destination country. The USPS also offers a small flat rate box that can be used for shipping to Canada and Mexico for $9, and to other countries for $11.
Some international services, such as Priority Mail International, include tracking and insurance, while others, like First-Class Package International Service, do not. It's essential to check the specific features of each service before choosing.
USPS also offers other international services, such as the International Business Reply Service (IBRS), which allows businesses to distribute envelopes and cards to foreign countries for return to the US. The Airmail M-Bags service is another option for sending large amounts of printed material internationally at an affordable price.
USPS
USPS offers a range of international shipping services, including First-Class Mail International and Priority Mail International.
USPS Tracking is included in most international mail services, and you can add insurance and extra services as needed. The delivery speed varies depending on the service, with First-Class Package International Service taking 6-10 business days and Priority Mail International taking 6-10 business days as well.
The First-Class Package International Service is a cost-effective way to send lightweight packages, weighing up to 4 pounds and worth no more than $400. It's available at both USPS Post Offices and online.
First-Class Mail International is another economical option, allowing you to send letters or lightweight packages to over 190 countries, including Canada and Great Britain, starting at $1.65 with a Global Forever stamp.
USPS Flat Rate (International) offers an optional signature on delivery service, which can be decided by the sender at the time of shipment creation.
Here's a comparison of some of the cheapest shipping services, including USPS International Shipping, Priority Mail International, and Global Express Guaranteed:
Keep in mind that the pricing computation depends on the shipment's weight and destination, with some countries assigned to specific pricing groups.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has established two distinct packaging options, envelopes and boxes, with an Envelope (9.5'' x 12.5'') costing $9 to mail to Canada and Mexico, and $11 to ship to other nations.
Airmail M-Bags are a great option for sending large amounts of printed material internationally at an affordable price, starting at $59.18.
Priority Mail International does not charge balloon rates or dimensional weight pricing, making it a more cost-effective option compared to other carriers.
Business Reply Service
The USPS offers a Business Reply Service that allows businesses to distribute envelopes and cards to foreign countries for return to the international address in the US.
This service is a convenient option for businesses that need to send and receive international mail. The USPS's IBRS service allows businesses to distribute envelopes and cards to foreign countries without requiring a prepayment of postage.
The fee for this service is collected from the sender residing in the US at delivery, and it includes both postage and service charges.
Shipping and Tracking
To send packages overseas, you'll need to consider shipping rates and tracking options. For USPS Flat Rate (International), you can sign up for a free Easyship account to see the most accurate rates.
Shipping rates can be a major factor in planning your international mail. USPS Flat Rate (International) offers a simple and cost-effective solution, but you'll need to create an account to get the most accurate rates.
Tracking your packages is also crucial to ensure they arrive safely. With Easyship, you can easily track your packages and stay on top of their status.
Tracking
Tracking your shipments is a straightforward process. You can track USPS Flat Rate (International) shipments using the tracking number provided and visiting the USPS website.
Priority Mail Express International offers a reliable tracking system, allowing you to monitor the status of your packages. The delivery period for this package is just 3 to 5 business days, making it easy to keep track of your shipments.
To track your shipment, you'll need to have the tracking number handy. This number is usually provided to you when you send the package.
Tasks
To track your USPS Flat Rate (International) shipment, visit the USPS website with the tracking number provided.
You can also use the USPS website to track your shipment, which is a convenient way to stay on top of your package's status.
To determine the cost of shipping your package, check the Priority Mail International Postage Rates, which vary depending on the package's weight or destination.

The pricing for Priority Mail International starts from $42.95 at the Post Office, but you can save money with Commercial Base and Commercial Plus pricing, which starts from $40.91.
Here's a breakdown of the Priority Mail International Postage Rates:
The Priority Mail International service is a popular choice for both businesses and individuals, offering dependable and affordable shipping options.
Pricing and Restrictions
Pricing for international mail delivery starts as low as $1.65 for letters and postcards using First-Class Mail International (FCMI). This service is a great option for those on a budget.
First-Class Mail International has a weight limit of 4 pounds, and the cost starts at $1.65 for letters and postcards. This service is ideal for sending lightweight items.
The cost of shipping a package to Canada and Mexico is $23 using the Flat Rate Pricing option, while shipping to other countries costs $37. This service is a good option for those who need to send a package quickly.
Flat Rate Pricing has a weight limit of 20 pounds, and the cost starts at $23 for shipping to Canada and Mexico. This service is ideal for sending larger packages.
Some items are restricted from being shipped internationally, including airbags, ammunition, explosives, gasoline, and marijuana. It's essential to check the destination guide for postal restrictions and requirements before shipping.
Here's a summary of the pricing options:
Delivery Prices
International postage rates start from as low as $1.65 for letters and postcards to all countries, using First-Class Mail International.
The rates for Priority Mail International start at $42.95, but you can opt for Priority Mail International Express for a shorter delivery timeline, which starts at $59.50.
Global Express Guaranteed or GXG is the fastest option, with a delivery timeline of as little as one to three working days, but it's also the most expensive, starting at $74.95.
Shipping a box to Canada and Mexico costs $23, while shipping to other countries costs $37, as long as it weighs no more than 20 pounds.

The weight limit for a Flat Rate box is 4 pounds, but you can send a box weighing up to 20 pounds if it's shipped to a country that allows it.
The Priority Mail International Flat Rate service can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're not shipping heavy items, and it's available for $31.95 for a box weighing no more than 4 pounds.
Restrictions
If you're planning to ship something internationally, it's essential to know the restrictions first. Some items, like airbags, ammunition, explosives, gasoline, and marijuana, are prohibited from being exported internationally.
USPS has specific rules for shipping packages, and one of the main restrictions is weight. For example, USPS Priority Mail International has a maximum weight limit of 70 pounds, but some countries have lower weight restrictions.
You'll also need to check the type of package you're shipping. Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes and Small Flat Rate Priced Boxes have a maximum weight limit of 4 pounds, while medium and large Priority Mail International Flat Rate Boxes have a maximum weight limit of 20 pounds.

To ensure your package meets the requirements, it's crucial to check the country-specific restrictions. You can find this information on the USPS website.
Here are some key restrictions to keep in mind:
- Airbags are prohibited from being exported internationally.
- Ammunition is also prohibited from being exported internationally.
- Explosives are prohibited from being exported internationally.
- Gasoline is prohibited from being exported internationally.
- Marijuana is prohibited from being exported internationally.
- Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes and Small Flat Rate Priced Boxes have a maximum weight limit of 4 pounds.
- Medium and large Priority Mail International Flat Rate Boxes have a maximum weight limit of 20 pounds.
Additionally, when sealing a Flat Rate Envelope or Box, the container flaps must close inside the standard folds. And, when writing the destination address, it's essential to use a pen or a permanent marker to write the correct address in capital characters, without any commas or periods.
Pricing
Pricing for international mail delivery with USPS can be complex, but it's essential to understand the costs involved. The starting price for international postage is as low as $1.65 for letters and postcards to all countries, using First-Class Mail International (FCMI).
The cost of shipping increases with the type of service and the destination country. For example, Priority Mail International starts at $42.95, while Priority Mail International Express starts at $59.50. The most expensive option, Global Express Guaranteed (GXG), starts at $74.95.

To give you a better idea of the pricing, here's a breakdown of the costs for different services:
USPS also offers flat-rate pricing for international shipping, which can be a cost-effective option. For example, a small flat-rate box costs $9 to mail to Canada and Mexico, while a large flat-rate box costs $37 to ship to other countries.
It's worth noting that the pricing computation depends on the shipment's weight and destination country. Some countries are assigned to a specific pricing group by the USPS, while others have their own set of tariffs. Be sure to check the USPS website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
International Shipping
International shipping can be a complex and overwhelming process, but with the right information, you can make informed decisions about your mail and packages. You can track USPS Flat Rate (International) shipments using the tracking number provided on the USPS website.
USPS offers a range of international shipping services, including First-Class Package International Service, which allows you to send lightweight packages across the world to over 190 countries. This service has a weight limit of 4 pounds and a value limit of $400.

To compare international delivery speeds and prices, you can visit the USPS website and explore the different options available. Some services, like Priority Mail International, offer flat rate pricing and can be a cost-effective option for shipping packages weighing up to 70 pounds.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when shipping internationally with USPS:
- First-Class Package International Service has a weight limit of 4 pounds and a value limit of $400
- Priority Mail International has a weight limit of 70 pounds and offers flat rate pricing
- International shipping rates start at $1.65 for letters and postcards using First-Class Mail International
- Priority Mail International Express starts at $59.50
- Global Express Guaranteed starts at $74.95 and offers delivery times of 1-3 working days
FCMIS
FCMIS is a great option for sending lightweight packages internationally. It's an economical way to send packages to about 180 countries, with a maximum weight of 4 lbs or 64oz.
The cost starts at $17.85, making it a cost-effective option for shipping small items. First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS) includes Electronic USPS Delivery Confirmation International (E-USPS DELCON INTL) when shipping online to select countries.
You can send packages weighing up to 4 lbs and containing goods worth up to $400 in value. However, some governments may have restrictions on this service, so be sure to check the destination country's requirements.
Here's a summary of FCPIS:
- Maximum weight: 4 lbs or 64oz
- Maximum value: $400
- Cost: starts at $17.85
- Available to: about 180 countries
- Includes E-USPS DELCON INTL for select countries
Keep in mind that some countries have specific prohibitions and restrictions, so it's essential to check the destination country's requirements before shipping.
IBRS
The International Business Reply Service (IBRS) is a convenient option for businesses to send envelopes and cards to foreign countries that can be returned to the US.
IBRS doesn't require a prepayment of postage, which can be a significant cost savings.
The fee for IBRS International Postage starts at $1.25 for envelopes up to 2 ounces.
Cards sent through IBRS International Postage cost $0.84.
Envelope
Envelope options are a great way to send items internationally, and the United States Postal Service (USPS) offers several options. The USPS has established two distinct packaging options for envelopes, which are the Envelope (9.5′′ x 12.5′′) and the small flat rate box.
The Envelope (9.5′′ x 12.5′′) costs $9 to mail to Canada and Mexico, and $11 to ship to other nations. This is a great option for sending small documents or lightweight items.
The Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelope is another great option for sending items internationally. It comes in three categories: the regular Flat Rate Envelope, the Legal Flat Rate Envelope for posting legal documents, and the Padded Flat Rate Envelope for important or delicate documents.

The maximum weight permissible for the Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelope is 4 lbs for all three kinds of international flat rate envelopes. The dimensions for each type of envelope are as follows:
- Flat Rate Envelope: 12 1/2″ x 9 1/2″
- Legal Flat Rate Envelope: 15″ x 9 1/2″
- Padded Flat Rate Envelope: 12 1/2″ x 9 1/2″
The postage rate for the Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelope starts from $59.50 at the Post Office, and can go as high as $75.55 and $71.90 for retail and commercial mailers, respectively, depending on the package's weight or size.
USPS Information
USPS offers significantly lower rates than any other mailing company, making it a preferred choice for online businesses shipping to foreign countries.
For more information on postal restrictions and requirements, check the United States Postal Service website or our destination guide.
Items valued at or under USD $800 sent via Postal services from Australia to the US will be free from duty and import tax, unless they fall under the de minimis exemption list.
New tariffs apply to Australian-originating goods valued over USD $800 entering the United States via Postal services, with a 10% tariff on import.
How to Clear Customs
Clearing customs can be a challenge, but USPS makes it easier with their Click-N-Ship tool that allows you to generate and print international postage and complete customs papers for your delivery.
To avoid having your package stuck in a foreign airport, it's best to clear things ahead of time by filling out the customs form if needed, or ordering customs forms from the Post Office.
You can find more information on destination postal restrictions and requirements by checking the USPS website.
For a smoother international shipping experience, use USPS's tools and resources to stay on top of customs regulations and paperwork.
Ratings
USPS International Flat Rate packages receive a rating of 3 out of 5 for overall satisfaction.
The support offered by USPS International Flat Rate is mediocre, with a rating of 3 out of 5.
Tracking is a weak point for USPS International Flat Rate, with a rating of 2 out of 5.
Speed is also a concern, with a rating of 2 out of 5.
Here's a breakdown of the ratings:
You can manage this process, and more, on the Easyship platform.
Important Postal Update
As of April 5, 2025, new tariffs will apply to Australian-originating goods valued over USD $800 entering the United States.
Items valued at or under USD $800 sent via Postal services from Australia to the US will still be free from duty and import tax, unless they fall under the de minimis exemption list.
If you're shipping items over USD $800, be aware that a new tariff of 10% will be applied on import into the United States via Postal services.
Tariffs are based on the country of shipment, so keep this in mind when planning your international shipments.
Common Questions About
You can mail packages to over 180 countries with the US Postal Service, but be aware that some countries have restrictions on certain types of items.
The cost of mailing a package internationally varies depending on the weight, size, and destination of the package.
For example, a 1-pound package sent to Canada might cost around $15, while a 1-pound package sent to Australia might cost around $25.

The US Postal Service offers a range of international shipping options, including Priority Mail International and First-Class Package International Service.
If you're sending a package to a country that requires a customs form, you'll need to fill out and attach a PS Form 2976-A or PS Form 2976-B to the package.
Some countries also require additional documentation, such as commercial invoices or certificates of origin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 3 forever stamps for international mail?
For international mail, you can use 3 Forever Stamps for letters weighing one ounce or below, but a Global Forever Stamp is a more convenient option.
How much is a forever stamp for international mail?
A Global Forever stamp for international mail costs $1.65 and never expires, making it a convenient option for sending letters and postcards worldwide.
Sources
- https://www.usps.com/international/mail-shipping-services.htm
- https://www.postgrid.com/international-postage-rates/
- https://www.clickpost.ai/international-shipping/usps
- https://auspost.com.au/sending/parcels-overseas/international-post-guide/results/united-states
- https://www.easyship.com/couriers/shipping-usps-flatrate-international
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