What Is a Mailing Tube Classified As?
Mailing tubes are a convenient way to ship posters, prints, architectural drawings and other large-format papers. Tubes are eligible for shipping using a variety of United States Postal Service (USPS) shipping methods. These methods offer a wide range of size, weight, and delivery speed options.
First Class Mail
First-class mail is an economical and efficient shipping option, especially for lighter-weight packages. Tubes (with content included) that weigh less than 13 ounces qualify for first-class mail shipping. Shipments going first class must also have a combined measurement of less than 108 inches in combined length and girth. Single posters, small prints, and lighter bundles of legal documents are all examples of content that could be shipped in a tube via first-class mail.
Priority Mail
A mailing tube is also eligible for priority mail shipping through the USPS. Any tube containing more than 13 ounces of matter is immediately bumped up to priority mail shipping unless a parcel service is requested. A priority mail shipping tube is required to have a total length plus girth size no more than 108 inches and a weight of less than 70 pounds. The USPS offers free triangular mailing tubes (see Resources), provided priority mail or express mail service is purchased. Priority mail packages are typically delivered in two to three days.
Express Mail
Tubes can be sent via express mail through USPS whether the postal service provided packages or not. Express mail operates with the 108-inch length plus girth maximum measurement and also has a 70-pound weight limit. Express mail has a one-to two-day delivery window with a money back guarantee if the tube is not delivered on time. However, the service does cost extra. As of June 2010, express mail prices start at $13.65 for 0.5 ounces and incrementally increase based on weight.
Parcel Post
Parcel post is the USPS option for tubes that are too heavy for first-class mail shipment but do not require immediate delivery via priority mail or express mail. Parcel post can take two to eight days but is more affordable. Parcel post also allows for packages with up to 180 inches of combined length plus girth which allows for the shipment of larger tubes. The postal service weight limit of 70 pounds remains the same.
Media Mail
Media mail is for the shipment of books, manuscripts, sound recordings and other media items. A media item that is capable of being rolled and placed within a tube is eligible for shipment through this service at a reduced weight compared to other mailing options. Media mail starts at $2.38 for a one-pound package or tube and increases by $0.39 for each additional pound. Media mail also takes two to eight days and is limited to a weight of 70 pounds or less.
Tags: mailing, tube, classified, mail shipping, express mail, first-class mail, length plus, length plus girth, less than, Media mail, Parcel post, plus girth, priority mail shipping
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