Shipping on the CHEAP with tracking # . . . . . . Zoid's PSA

[SchmittZoid]

Folks,

I really hate how the shipping rates with the USPS have skyrocketed this year. I really hate to pay Priority Mail small box flat rates, but like the accountability of having a tracking number when shipping. When the small box Priority Mail flat rate rose to over $4.75 a few years back, I knew I had to find a way to buy First Class with tracking numbers somehow. Now with Priority Mail at over $7.25, I feel the need to share what I discovered.

I talked to a lot of folks at the Post Office. They said it was "possible" but none of them would give me straight answers on how to get that done. To my knowledge, it is still NOT possible to purchase First Class with tracking directly from the USPS website.

I've been wanting to do a thread like this ever since I discovered the process, so welcome to Zoid's First Class Shipping Public Service Announcement. They don't make shipping this way very intuitive or easy, but the savings make it worth the effort. However, it only works for those of you who use and hate PayPal.

There is a little-known, hidden corner of the PayPal site that lets you do exactly what I had been searching for - ship First Class mail (12oz or less) or Parcel Post (above 12oz) WITH TRACKING NUMBERS. Locally, the difference will be a savings of half price or more.

For example, Priority Mail for 3 polishing cloths (5oz) is $7.25. First Class with tracking number for 3 polishing cloths is $2.62

Here is how you go about it . . . . . .

https://www.paypal.com/shiplabel/create/
​

Enjoy . . . . . .

alleycat , this thread is for you . . . . . .

 

[jeffdt]

Nice! And thanks. Good PsA.

 

[Joshua223]

Whenever I use the kiosk at USPS I choose first class with tracking since it is cheaper than using priority.

 

[BanjoJohn]

I have found that "flat rate" is only beneficial when the contents are really heavy.

 

[SchmittZoid]

Whenever I use the kiosk at USPS I choose first class with tracking since it is cheaper than using priority.

This allows you to ship and print labels without the need to go to the Post Office.

The Post Office still does not offer this on their website.

 

[Joshua223]

This allows you to ship and print labels without the need to go to the Post Office.

The Post Office still does not offer this on their website.

Without a printer at home that hasn't been an option. Since we have one at the office I may start using this method.

 

[Hayata]

@bulletpaluza

@mrsbulletpaluza

 

[GodBlessTheUSA]

¥ou da MAN!

 

[41mag]

Awesome! Thanks for the tip Zoid !

 

[BIKER13]

I send it priority and charge you