Those familiar brown boxes you receive with shipping are a staple for many businesses, but are they right for yours?
Did you know UPS Flat Rate shipping dates back to the 1980s, introduced as a way to simplify costs for a growing market of mail-order shoppers? Today, flat-rate options are even more relevant for eCommerce sellers.
If you sell items with similar dimensions, having a 'one size fits most' shipping solution reduces complexity and minimizes the chance of using oversized packaging. Instead of stocking multiple box sizes and hoping you ordered enough of each, flat-rate options let you bulk order with confidence. One of the defining features of UPS is it takes away the mental hassle from the customers, thus taking out the guessing phase and actually getting things done.
Flexible
predictable
Simple Rate Shipping
These three words redefine the ease of inventory management that UPS can achieve.
Understanding UPS Flat Rate Box Sizes Breakdown:
UPS flat rate shipping is also known as "UPS Simple Rate." Unlike FedEx and USPS, UPS allows you to use your own packaging to ship items anywhere in the United States. There are five pricing options based on package size and delivery speed. Package size is determined by volume, not dimensions:
Extra Small: 1-100”
Small: 101-250”
Medium: 251-650”
Large: 651-1,050”
Extra Large: 1,051-1,728”
Packages can weigh up to 50lbs regardless of box size. In addition to boxes, UPS also offers a flat-rate envelope, which can be a cost-effective option for shipping documents or other flat items.
Does UPS have flat rate boxes? Yes! You can find their full selection on the UPS website. And can I use a USPS box for UPS? Well, no, because using a USPS box with UPS will likely result in extra fees. USPS boxes, including their Flat Rate boxes, are specifically for USPS shipments.
Optimal Use of Different UPS Flat Rate Box Sizes
A small Flat Rate Box is like a treasure chest for your dense items. Think jewelry, small shipping boxes, electronics, and cosmetics - they all snuggle in comfortably.
Now, imagine the Medium Flat Rate Box as your clothes drawer. It takes in clothing, lightweight household goods, and even subscription box kits with ease.
Large Flat Rate Box, on the other hand, is like a big, welcoming couch. It's perfect for your bulky yet lightweight items like pillows, seasonal decor, or a bundle of smaller goodies. But remember, if you try to stuff it with very dense items, you might exceed the weight limits.
Benefits and Features of UPS Flat Rate Boxes
The appeal of flat-rate shipping goes beyond just a simplified price tag. Here's how to streamline your shipping process:
Cost Predictability:
Whether your package weighs 2 ounces or 20 pounds (within the box's limits), the rate is the same. This makes it easy to calculate shipping costs upfront and avoid surprises on your monthly bill.
Scenario: A customer adds a gift-wrapping option to their order at the last minute. With flat-rate, the additional weight won't change the shipping cost, preserving your profit margin.
Volume Advantage:
The per-shipment cost of flat-rate goes down the more you use it. Unlike standard boxes , every inch and ounce matters, you can focus on getting orders out the door quickly.
Caveat: Dense items can still put you over the weight limit. If you primarily ship things like bricks, flat-rate is rarely the most cost-effective choice.
Comparison: UPS vs. FedEx vs. USPS
While all three major carriers offer flat-rate options, there are subtle (and sometimes significant) differences. The "best" carrier depends on what you ship, where you ship it, and how quickly it needs to get there. Online shipping calculators are designed to help you get better at decision making.
Speed: All carriers offer varying delivery speeds within their flat-rate options. This is where your customer's needs matter most.
Zones: UPS and FedEx ground services are zone-based. USPS Priority Mail zones are less drastic, making the difference less significant at longer distances.
Feature | UPS | FedEx | USPS |
|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Volume | Up to 1,728 cubic inches | Up to 1,452 cubic inches | Up to 1200 cubic inches |
Shipping Speeds | Within Five Days, Within Three Business Days, Second Day and Next-Day | Express Services only (no ground) | Priority Mail 1-3 business days |
Declared Value | $100 | $100 | $50 |
Guaranteed | Yes | Yes | — |
Shipping Rates | National Flat Rate | 3 Zones | National Flat Rate |
While comparing services, do not forget to factor in the Priority Mail Express cost if you are considering USPS for faster delivery.
Ideal Use Cases
UPS: Predictable costs for a variety of item weights and sizes within their box range.
FedEx: Similar to UPS, but may be slightly more competitive for specific box sizes or very short-distance shipping.
USPS: Offers Priority Mail flat-rate but often beats UPS/FedEx on very small and lightweight items, regardless of box type. See more offerings from the USPS in the following points.
For those who prefer prepaid options, USPS prepaid boxes are also available and can be considered.
USPS offers Priority Mail flat-rate options, which can be a cost-effective solution if your USPS Priority Mail package is small and lightweight.
USPS also offers versatile shipping bags for non-fragile items, which can be a flexible solution for e-commerce businesses."
FedEx Contrast:
FedEx offers similar flat-rate options, but there are some contrasts. See the below insights:
The FedEx small box dimensions might be a better fit for smaller items compared to UPS or USPS options.
The FedEx medium box dimensions are specifically designed to accommodate items that are too large for a small box but too small for a large box.
Remember to compare FedEx shipping box sizes with UPS and USPS to find the best fit for your specific items.
Practical Tips for Using UPS Flat Rate Boxes
Now that you understand the benefits let's get into the practicalities of maximizing the value of these boxes:
Ordering:
UPS stores typically have the common sizes in stock, but if you use a specific type frequently or need larger quantities, ordering online ensures you don't run out at a crucial moment.
Cost per Service:
While flat-rate simplifies things, the speed still matters!
If time isn't a factor, choosing a slower ground service can offer significant savings compared to express options. If you're moving house, USPS moving boxes can be a convenient and cost-effective option, although they aren't suitable for flat rate shipping.
Packing:
If your items are sturdy, save on packing materials by nesting smaller items within larger ones inside the box.
Focus on materials that cushion without adding excessive weight (air pillows instead of dense packing peanuts, etc.)
DIY Solutions:
Many sellers find flat-rate boxes work best with slight modifications. Popular hacks include cutting them down to a smaller size or combining two boxes to create a unique shape. These solutions aren’t restrictive to certain domains. With a bit of creativity, they can solve a wide range of shipping challenges.
Read More: Shoes Boxes Secrets How to Organize Store and Ship Your Footwear
Important FAQs
Q.1 What does flat rate shipping mean?
Ans: You pay one price to ship your package, regardless of its weight (up to the box's limit). While it's easy to understand the concept, shipping providers take different factors when defining this concept. Here’s the breakdown.
Flat rate shipping for USPS is based on the size of your box. It doesn't matter how heavy it is (as long as it's under 70 lbs) or how far it's going.
UPS charges for flat rate shipping based on how much space your package takes up (not how big it is) and how fast it gets there. The weight of the package (as long as it's under 50 lbs) and how far it's going doesn't change the cost.
When you use FedEx for flat rate shipping, the cost is based on how big the box is, as well as how quickly and how far it's traveling. The weight of the package (as long as it's under 50 lbs) doesn't change the cost.
As long as your shipment complies with the specifications set by your shipping service, you'll be charged a uniform fee.
Q.2 Where can I get flat rate boxes other than the post office?
Ans: Flat rate boxes can be directly obtained from your shipping provider. USPS, FedEx, and certain freight providers provide their own boxes, which must be used to qualify for flat rate pricing. Alternatively, UPS allows the use of your own boxes, provided they meet the correct volume requirements.
Q.3 How long does flat rate shipping take?
Ans: Flat rate shipping duration varies, influenced by the chosen service and travel distance. Ground service typically takes 1-5 business days domestically, while Express could deliver the next day. International shipments take longer. For accurate estimates, use the carrier's shipping time calculator, considering the specific origin and destination.
Q.3 Can you ship priority mail in any box?
Ans: Yes, but you'll only get flat-rate pricing if you use a designated Priority Mail Flat Rate box.
Q.4 Is it cheaper to use a flat rate box or your own box?
Ans: It depends on what you're shipping. A flat rate is best for heavier items in standard sizes. For lightweight or oddly-shaped items, your own box may be cheaper.
Q.5 How does flat rate shipping work?
Ans: You pay a set price as long as your item fits in the box and is under the weight limit.
Q.6 How does click and ship work?
Ans: UPS's Click and Ship is an online service for shipping and label printing. After logging into your UPS account and entering the shipping details like origin, destination, package size, and weight, the system calculates the shipping cost. Upon payment, you can print the shipping label and attach it to your package. The service also enables you to schedule a package pickup or drop it off at a UPS store or drop box.
Final Thoughts
Flat rate shipping doesn't have to be a mystery! By understanding the options, making smart comparisons, and packing strategically, you can save time and money and reduce shipping-related stress. Whether you ship a few items a week or hundreds a day, there's a flat-rate solution out there to streamline your business.
Uncomplicated Packaging Solution | UPS
Finding the perfect shipping box shouldn't be stressful. Whether you need standard UPS flat-rate sizes or something completely custom, Half Price Packaging can help. Our packaging solution ensures you get what you were promised. Hop on a call with our experts!
