Flat rate shipping can be a game-changer for businesses looking to streamline their shipping process and reduce costs. With USPS, UPS, and FedEx offering flat rate options, understanding the differences between these carriers is crucial for choosing the best service for your needs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through pricing structures, available supplies, and key benefits of flat rate shipping from each carrier. You’ll learn how to leverage these options to save on shipping expenses while keeping your operations running smoothly.
We’ll also show you how our multi-carrier shipping platform makes it easy to access these flat rate options with our carrier-provided packages feature, allowing you to optimize your shipping process even further.
Table of Contents:
- What does flat rate shipping mean?
- How does flat rate shipping work?
- USPS Flat Rate Shipping Rates
- UPS Flat Rate Shipping Rates
- FedEx Flat Rate Shipping Rates
- Where to get shipping supplies?
- Carrier-provided packages: Airpals key to shipping flat rates
- How to get cheaper shipping rates by using carrier-provided packages feature
- FAQ's: Flat Rate Shipping Options & Supplies
What does flat rate shipping mean?
Flat rate shipping mean that the cost of that shipment will remain constant, regardless of what’s inside the package or the weight (as long as it fits the carrier's requirements). This approach simplifies the shipping process, as you don't need to calculate different rates for varying weights or distances.
For example, if you ship a 2-pound or 10-pound package, as long as it fits within the flat rate box provided by the carrier, the shipping cost will be the same. This is especially effective for businesses and online sellers, as it allows them to provide clear and predictable shipping rates to their customers and ultimately secure a better deal for them.
Flat Rates offer several advantages for the shipper, such as:
- Easier budgeting: The cost will remain the same as long as it fits in the carrier-provided package (envelope, box, tube, and many more)
- Cost efficiency: It can be cheaper for heavier shipments over long distances, as the flat rate often undercuts shipping costs.
- Convenience: Flat rates are widely accessible, making shipping straightforward from our go-to carriers, such as FedEx, USPS, and UPS.
- Customer satisfaction and transparency: Predictable and transparent shipping costs.
- Competitive prices: Flat rates/ Carrier-provided package rates are cheaper than custom package rates.
Popular carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS offer flat rate shipping options which are now available in our Multi-Carrier Feature, making it a must-try option for your shipments.
Check out our previous blog about shipping discounts. These 2 entries are part of our ongoing series on tips and hacks for mastering the best shipping rates for businesses or individuals.
How does flat rate shipping work?
When considering shipping options, it's important to understand how flat rates are tied to specific carrier-provided supplies, such as boxes, padded envelopes, express envelopes, mailers, paks, tubes, and many more. This connection simplifies the process and can lead to significant cost savings.
For instance, USPS offers flat rate boxes in different sizes, and as long as your items fit inside the package, you don’t need to worry about size or weight calculations affecting the cost.
Within these supplies, you can ship them for a fixed rate. As an example, if you need to send a package of books weighing 15 pounds across the country, you can use a USPS Medium Flat Rate Box. The cost will be the same as sending a 1-pound item in the same box, providing a predictable and cheaper shipping option.
Below, we will explore more in-depth the most popular shipping rates and, later on, the shipping supplies offered by USPS, UPS, and FedEx and provide tips on how to obtain them easily! It's important to note that flat rates can vary significantly depending on the carrier. Each major shipping company has its own set of guidelines and prices for flat rate shipping.
Pricing Factors For Flat Rate Shipping Considered by Carriers
| USPS Flat Rate | UPS Simple Rate | FedEx One Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Package type and size (envelope, box, others) | Package type and size (envelope, box, others) | Package type and size (envelope, box) |
| - | Delivery speed | Delivery speed |
| - | - | Destination |
Find all carriers' flat rates available in our platform under the “Carrier Provided Packages” option in our Multi-Carrier Feature.
USPS Flat Rate Shipping Rates
The flat shipping rates USPS offers are a reliable and straightforward approach for their customers. Their idea is super clear, if your item fits within one of the standard-sized packages provided by USPS, you pay a predetermined rate, no matter the distance it needs to travel within the United States, and as long as this is not over 70 lbs. This gives you a lot of room to work with.
| USPS Flat Rate Option | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| USPS Priority Mail - Flat Rate Envelope | 12 1/2" x 9 1/2" x 3/4" |
| USPS Priority Mail - Flat Rate Gift Card Envelope | 10" x 7" x 3/4" |
| USPS Priority Mail - Small Flat Rate Box | 8 11/16" x 5 7/16" x 1 3/4" |
| USPS Priority Mail - Large Flat Rate Box | 12 1/4" x 12 1/4" x 6" |
| USPS Medium Flat Rate Box 1 | 11 1/4" x 8 3/4" x 6" |
This information is updated periodically, so checking the Airpals and the USPS website for any changes or updates is a good idea.
UPS Flat Rate Shipping Rates
UPS offers a shipping service called UPS Simple Rate that's pretty straightforward. With this service, you can use packaging or shipping supplies from UPS. What's interesting is that the shipping cost takes into account only the delivery speed and the package size. It's a super convenient way to ship, and it's especially handy for small businesses and individuals. Below you will see some of UPS's most popular services and packages.
| UPS Flat Rate Option | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Express Box Small | 13" x 11" x 2" |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Express Envelope | 12 1/2" x 9 1/2" x 2" |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Express Legal Envelope | 15" x 9 1/2" x 2" |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Pad Pak | 14 3/4" x 11" x 2" |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Express Box Medium | 15" x 11" x 3" |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® - Express Box Large | 18" x 13" x 3" |
This information is updated periodically, so checking the Airpals and the UPS website for any changes or updates is a good idea.
FedEx Flat Rate Shipping Rates
FedEx offers a service called FedEx One Rate that makes shipping super easy. Instead of charging based on weight or how far your package travels, they give you a flat rate based on the size of the box and how fast you want it delivered. This feature is now part of our multi-carrier tool.
To qualify for this deal, your packages just need to fit in one of the special FedEx Express packages, which come in different sizes and shapes. Below you will see some of FedEx's most popular services and packages.
| FedEx Flat Rate Option | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| FedEx Express Saver® - FedEx® Envelope | 12 1/2" x 9 1/2" x 1" |
| FedEx 2Day® - FedEx® Small Box (S1) | <br>12 3/8" x 10 7/8" x 1 1/2" |
| FedEx 2Day® - FedEx® Medium Box (M1) | 13 1/4" x 11 1/2" x 2 3/8" |
| FedEx Express Saver® - FedEx® Large Box (L1) | 17 1/2" x 12 3/8" x 3" |
| FedEx Express Saver® - FedEx® Extra Large Box (X1) | 11 7/8" x 11" x 10 3/4" |
This information is updated periodically, so checking the Airpals and the FedEx website for any changes or updates is a good idea.
Where to get shipping supplies?
In the world of shipping logistics, the choice and use of carrier shipping supplies can significantly impact the efficiency of operations and the cost-effectiveness of shipments.
As we mentioned before, shipping supplies play a crucial role in flat rate pricing structures, simplifying shipping costs by charging a fixed rate regardless of weight (up to 70 pounds), size, and destination (although the last two factors can potentially impact the overall costs based on the chosen shipping carrier).
Now that we know the role of carrier shipping supplies and how they are linked to flat rate pricing structures, it's crucial to differentiate them from custom packages or unbranded shipping supplies.
Custom packages are generic packaging materials that businesses or individuals have at hand. These can include boxes, bags, or mailers. Unlike carrier shipping supplies, unbranded options may not always conform to specific carrier guidelines, which can potentially impact shipping costs.
In a previous blog post, we discussed the importance of properly placing shipping labels on packages. Buying shipping labels that correspond precisely to the flat rate box or envelopes you are using is essential when using carrier shipping supplies.
For example, attaching a Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Shipping Label to a Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Box will result in the package being returned. Properly using shipping supplies, including correct labeling, is crucial for smooth and efficient delivery; otherwise, extra charges may apply.
a. How to get USPS shipping supplies
Getting USPS shipping supplies is straightforward. You can visit your local post office to pick them up or order them online through their official website. Simply select the needed shipping supplies, add them to your cart, and check out. Supplies are delivered to your door without any shipping charges.
b. How to get UPS Shipping supplies
UPS also offers a variety of shipping supplies that can be ordered online for free through their UPS website if you have a UPS account (create an account if you don't have one already). Available supplies include Express Envelopes, various sizes of boxes, and tubes. You can also visit a nearby UPS store to pick up supplies directly, making it easy to get what you need quickly.
It’s worth noting that the quantity of shipping supplies per order is limited. However, you can periodically reorder supplies based on your recent shipping volume. If you need additional supplies to accommodate a higher volume, you must contact UPS Customer Service to place an order.
c. How to get FedEx Shipping supplies
FedEx offers a variety of shipping supplies. You can buy packing supplies (tape or cushioning) and boxes individually, paying a fixed price at a FedEx office, or take advantage of the free FedEx Express packaging available online.
To order supplies online, go to the FedEx website and explore the “Shipping” section. You must have a FedEx account to order shipping supplies.
Carrier-provided packages: Airpals key to shipping flat rates
At Airpals, our multi-carrier shipping platform offers a unique "Carrier Provided Packages" feature, which integrates with carriers' flat rate pricing and shipping supplies. This feature is designed to simplify the shipping process for our users by leveraging standardized packaging options that come with fixed rates and are provided directly by carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx.
As you can tell, "Carrier Provided Packages" are related to flat rate pricing and shipping supplies, which have many benefits. First, users can benefit from fixed shipping costs regardless of the package's weight or destination, making it easier to budget and manage shipping costs. Second, using "Carrier Provided Packages" allows shippers to choose from standardized shipping supplies specified by the carrier, reducing shipping errors and delays.
Now Airpals users have two options: "Custom Packages," where they input specific dimensions and weight for their packaging, and "Carrier Provided Packages," where they can choose from different types of standard boxes and envelopes offered by carriers under this feature.
To start using this feature on our platform, select the "Carrier Provided Packages" option during the "Package Info" step of placing an order, enter the package weight, and review the available flat rate options each carrier provides. This option enhances efficiency and maximizes cost savings for businesses and individuals shipping with Airpals.
You can also refer to our previous blog post for more details on our multi-carrier shipping solution.
How to get cheaper shipping rates by using carrier-provided packages
You can save on shipping costs by choosing flat rate options from carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx. These packages come in standard sizes, which helps to minimize shipping expenses and eliminates the need for custom packaging.
Now, we'll show you one real-life example of how carrier-provided packages have an impact on shipping expenses.
a. Case study
Emily runs a home decor business and frequently ships heavy items, such as ceramic vases, to her nationwide customers. She recently discovered the "Carrier Provided Packages" option on our multi-carrier shipping platform and decided to give it a try.
Custom Package: Emily’s custom box dimensions are 11x8x6 inches, and the package with the ceramic vase inside weighs 25 pounds. When she enters these details, the shipping cost is calculated based on the weight and dimensions. Emily usually buys these custom boxes in packs of 10, which costs her a total of $30.
Carrier Provided Package: Emily chose a carrier-provided box that is 11 1/4" x 8 3/4" x 6" inches and fits his product perfectly. The weight of the package with the vase inside is still 25 pounds. However, the carrier-provided box falls under a flat rate category.
Custom Package Shipping Cost:
- $28.62 (UPS Ground Saver)
- $35.73 (FedEx Ground)
- $48.34 (USPS Ground Advantage)
Carrier Provided Package Shipping Cost:
- $14.38 (USPS Priority Mail - Medium Flat Rate Box)
* Please note that carriers' rates can change over time. The rates in this case study are from June 2024.
Emily is smart and chose to level up her shipping game by using Airpals to purchase and print her shipping label. By selecting the "Carrier Provided Package" feature, she bought her shipping label for just $14.38, which saved her $14.24 on the label and an additional $3 on the carrier-provided box.
By consistently using "Carrier Provided Packages" for her shipments, Emily has accumulated significant savings over time. This has allowed her to reinvest in her business and offer more competitive pricing to her customers.
In summary, Emily saved a significant amount on shipping costs by using our platform's "Carrier Provided Packages" feature. This demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of using carrier-provided packaging and flat rates. By doing so, Emily not only saved money but also streamlined her shipping process through standardized packaging options.
We believe leveraging our "Carrier Provided Packages" feature will elevate your shipping operations, ensuring seamless, cost-effective operations for your business or personal shipping needs.
Save this entry to get the best shipping flat rates on your next shipment. Use Airpals today! and access flat rates, custom rates, and discounts from multiple carriers!
FAQ's: Flat Rate Shipping Options & Supplies
What is a flat shipping rate?
A Flat shipping rate involves charging a set rate for shipping, regardless of the package's weight or dimensions, as long as it fits within the specified carrier-provided packaging.
What does flat rate shipping mean?
Flat rate shipping means that the shipping cost remains constant for a particular package size or type provided by the carrier, regardless of the package's weight or destination.
How long does a flat rate shipping take?
Flat Rate shipping usually takes between one to three business days for delivery, not including Sundays or specific holidays.
Where can you get shipping boxes?
Shipping boxes and other supplies like envelopes, tube boxes, and mailers are available from USPS, UPS, and FedEx. You can order them online through the carriers' websites or visit their local stores to pick them up.
Are USPS boxes free?
Yes, USPS offers free shipping boxes for services like Priority Mail. You can order them online through the USPS website or pick them up at your local post office.
Where can I get FedEx envelopes?
FedEx envelopes are available at FedEx Office locations and online through the FedEx website. Many are free when used with FedEx expedited services.
Does UPS have free boxes?
Yes, UPS provides free boxes for most shipments. You can order them online through the UPS website or pick them up at UPS stores.
What is the difference between standard and flat rate shipping?
Standard shipping rates vary based on weight, size, and distance, while flat rate shipping charges a fixed price regardless of weight (within limits). Flat rate shipping is ideal for heavier packages traveling long distances.