Proper preparation before sending an item in the mail can help to ensure that it arrives safely, securely and according to the service selected. Preparing an item for shipment includes everything from packaging and addressing to depositing your item in a mailbox.
Guidelines
These guidelines will help you get items to destinations safely, securely and economically.
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Ensure your item is acceptable for mailing
You are responsible for ensuring that your item can be shipped under law including requirements for international destinations. Learn More…
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Package your item
Packing and wrapping methods may vary according to the item to be mailed. For example, fragile, crushable, oddly shaped, sharp, cutting, liquid, liquefiable or powder articles require special precautions. For suggestions on how to package and wrap special items including eggs and live animals, visit our Postal Guide.
Make sure you visit our Online Store to purchase packaging and shipping products.
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Address your item
Use our Addressing Guide for guidelines and examples.
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Weigh and measure your item
The cost of shipping an item is calculated using its size and weight. Rectangular or square parcels, and bundles of newspapers, magazines or catalogues are measured by determining length, width, height or girth, as applicable.
Volumetric weight is charged when items of any shape are large in size and light in weight. The shipping price is based on the greater of the volumetric weight or the actual weight.
To determine if an item meets volumetric weight requirements and to calculate the correct postage, visit our Find a Rate tool.
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Prepare your documentation
Proper labels must be applied to your item and the appropriate and completed documentation must accompany the item. To learn more about Customs documentation visit our Postal Guide.
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Pay for your item
The following methods of payment can be used to pay for certain products and services.
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Deposit your item
Once your item is ready to be shipped you can deposit your item in any of the following locations:- Street Letter Box or Vault Box
- Post Office
