International Shipping Services: Summary of 2018 USPS Rate Increase
The U.S. Postal Service provides multiple shipping services for international delivery and ships to more than 180 countries. Depending on the service you choose, delivery times vary from 3 days to over 10 days for economical options. As with its domestic offerings, USPS also offers international flat rate options and even provides free shipping supplies for those mail classes.
Here’s what you need to know about USPS international mail classes now that the 2018 rate increases have gone into effect (as of January 21, 2018):
First-Class Package International Service
First-Class Package International Service is the USPS’ most affordable international service for the delivery of small packages. The maximum weight for this mail class is four pounds, and delivery time varies by destination.
- First-Class Package International Service rates have increased by an average of 3.9 percent
- When you purchase First-Class Package International Service online, you’ll save up to 5 percent versus retail rates.
Find the increase per package when comparing 2018 rates to 2017 rates below:
Priority Mail International
Priority Mail International is a cost-effective service that delivers mailpieces and packages weighing up to 70 pounds. This mail class offers international delivery in 6-10 days.
- Priority Mail International rates have increased by an average of 3.9 percent
- When you purchase Priority Mail International online, you can save up to 5 percent versus retail rates.
The charts below show 2018 rates and provide the increase per package when comparing new rates with the 2017 rates:
Priority Mail Express International
Priority Mail Express International offers date-specific delivery and a money-back guarantee when shipping to select countries, with delivery in 3-5 days. The maximum allowable package weight for Priority Mail Express International is 70 pounds.
- Priority Mail Express International rates have increased by an average of 3.9 percent
- When you purchase Priority Mail Express International online, you can save up to 5 percent versus retail rates.
Find the Priority Mail Express International increase per package when comparing 2018 rates to 2017 rates below:
