What is the right USPS International Mail Service for your business?

The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers different types of mail services that sometimes can be overwhelming to understand or choose the best one for your business. International Bridge offers discounted rates for all USPS International mail classes and here we are helping you choose the right one for your business.

Each service varies when it comes to cost, delivery time, and maximum weight. Here are the international services which are discounted through our free to use blue platform:

• Priority Mail Express International (PMEI)
• Priority Mail International (PMI)
• First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS)

USPS International Services:

USPS ships to over 180 countries, including Canada, Mexico and Europe. USPS can receive labeled shipments at any drop-off location or provide a pick-up service at no cost. USPS will then take all their international  shipments to their ISC locations to deliver them to the destination country. The destination's local post office will do the final-mile delivery.

Also, in order to complete an international label, a customs form must be filled out. The blue platform provides a simple process to complete a customs form for an international label. A customs declaration form requires the following information: type of content, description of item, weight and value. The image below shows the customs forms page by the blue platform.

Priority Mail Express International (PMEI)

Using PMEI one can send packages up to 70lbs (some countries differ). The maximum combined length and girth is 108 inches. Delivery usually takes 3 to 5 business days and if your package is not delivered on time you will get a full refund using PMEI. End-to-end tracking and shipping insurance (up to $200) are included. This is a fast and cost-efficient method of delivery that offers flat international shipping rates as well. Overall, PMEI is a bit pricey comparing to other international USPS services but using it one gets improved tracking as well as faster delivery times, plus a full refund if needed.

Priority Mail International (PMI)

Using PMI one can ship parcels up to 70 lbs. The maximum combined length and girth is 108 inches. Delivery usually takes 6 to 10 business days. Tracking and shipping insurance (up to $200) are included. PMI rates are based on weight and destination address, except for flat rate options.

PMI also offers the following flat rate options:

• Small flat rate boxes - up to 4 lbs.
• Medium and large Flat Rate Boxes up to 20 lbs.

Priority Mail International is the best value for the cost.

First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS)

FCPIS is the cheapest international shipping service USPS offers for lightweight packages, weighing less than 64 oz. (4 lbs.). FCPIS delivers to more than 180 countries around the world and it takes up to 7 - 21 business days. The value of the products shipped via FCPIS must be up to $400. As mentioned, the maximum weight is 4lbs. and maximum length, height, and width combined 36 inches (max. length is 24 inches). Prices tend to be more affordable compared to USPS PMI and PMEI, but delivery time is longer compared to both. Insurance is not included and neither is tracking.

If you want to learn more about USPS International Services, or you have a question, please contact us via email: [e-mail].