How to Save Money Sending Parcels Overseas by USPS

The United States Postal Service is a convenient and affordable way to ship internationally to more than 180 countries and territories across the globe. USPS offers several international shipping options that differ by delivery time and cost. Besides, you can save money sending parcels overseas by USPS by using discounted shipping labels.

USPS isn’t always the fastest way to get your packages delivered to their destination country, but it is definitely the most accessible and affordable one. The US Postal Service has many locations throughout the country, and if you don’t want to stand in line at the post office, you can schedule a free pickup or drop the package off at a USPS location, as long as you’ve printed a shipping label and attached it to the package.

USPS international mail services include Global Express Guaranteed, Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, First Class Mail International, and First-Class Package International Service.

Global Express Guaranteed ensures international delivery within 1–3 business days, with international transportation and delivery provided by FedEx Express. However, it is the most expensive international shipping service offered by the USPS. If you can wait for 3–5 business days to get your package delivered, Priority Mail Express International is a more affordable option.

Priority Mail International is a reliable and affordable way to ship packages overseas and have them delivered within 6–10 business days. First-Class Package International Service is even more affordable, but low cost has its drawbacks: delivery time is not guaranteed and varies based on destination. Besides, First-Class Package International Service allows to send small packages only (up to 4 lbs).

Whichever international mail service by USPS you choose, there’s a minimum price you’ll have to pay when you ship your parcel at the Post Office or print a shipping label online via USPS website. But you can save money sending parcels overseas by USPS if you use third-party services to generate discounted shipping labels.

Third-party services, such as PostageMaker, allow to print shipping label at lower rates. These labels are completely valid; USPS provides discounts to such services due to their significant shipping volumes. The services, in their turn, provide discounts to their customers.

Generating your shipping labels online with PostageMaker will help you save money on international shipping: our rates are 15–18% lower than official USPS rates due to our corporate discount. Besides, if you print your shipping labels yourself, you don’t need to make a trip to the Post Office to ship a parcel. USPS allows to schedule a free pick up at the location of your choice, be it your house or office.