Shipping Prices
VirtualPostMail ships primarily using US Postal Service (USPS), but we also support shipping using UPS, FedEx, and Express.
Shipping prices are primarily calculated based on a set of factors:
- Weight — the heavier the shipment, the most it'll cost. Certain shipping methods will start out at a minimum 1 lb regardless if it's 1 oz or 16oz.
- Dimensions — dimensional weight may be used to rate the package if the dimensions of the box is large compared to the real weight. Couriers have different formulas for calculating dimensional weight.
- Destination — the farther away your destination is from the origin, the more it'll cost.
- Shipping method — the faster (or better) the shipping method, the most it'll cost.
- Additional services — adding insurance, signature confirmation, or other services will increase the fees.
- Handling fees — this is what we charge for our labor time and packing materials. This is currently $0.40 / mail and $3.50 / package. Special handling fees differ.
This cost is billed to you on a per-use basis as shipping fees are not built into the plans. Regular shipping price is calculated by marking up the postage by 10%-20% plus handling fees.
Due to the above factors, it's not possible to provide you exact shipping prices. The following will be general guidelines for the shipping fees that are offered through our service.
Domestic Shipments
USPS First Class Mail
Usually delivers 1-5 business days after shipping.
- Single letter – starts at $2.50 for up to 3 oz and increases according to weight for up to 13 oz.
- 2+ letters – starts at $3.50 for up to 6 oz and increases according to weight up to 13 oz.
USPS Priority Mail
Usually delivers 1-3 business days after shipping.
- Letters only – ships in flat rate envelope or flat rate boxes with prices depending on the weight and number of mail items.
- Packages – price depends on the weight and is calculated in real time based on the number of packages included, whether extra packing materials are required, and if mail is included with the packages.
- FREE Delivery Confirmation with tracking number for all Priority Mail shipping.
International Shipments
USPS First Class Mail
Delivery time varies by country, but usually 2-3 weeks.
- Letters only – pricing based on USPS First Class International Large Envelope plus fees to cover material and transaction costs. Tracking available to specific countries.
USPS Priority Mail
Usually delivers 6-10 business days after shipping.
- Letters only – ships in flat rate envelope or flat rate boxes with prices depending on the weight and number of mail items. Tracking available to specific countries.
- Packages – price depends on the weight and is calculated in real time based on the number of packages included, whether extra packing materials are required, and if mail is included with the packages.
UPS and FedEx
Upon request, we can upgrade your shipping to one of the 3 couriers. These couriers offer more reliability and point-by-point tracking.
Custom Services
Custom delivery options are available upon request. Please follow our support article on how to create a special handling request. The cost of the delivery option will be deducted separately from your account balance.
- Delivery Confirmation – gives you a tracking number that you can use to find out the status of your shipment. This option comes FREE for all Priority Mail shipping. It is not available for First Class Mail. You will need to use Certified Mail in order to get tracking for First Class Mail. It is also not available for International USPS Priority Mail using Flat Rate Envelopes.
- Certified Mail – gives you a tracking number, signature confirmation, and proof of mailing for both First Class Mail or Priority Mail. If you need to make sure someone gets this and you need proof, this is the option you use.
- Signature Confirmation – requires the receiving party to sign for the delivered mail. This option is also available for First Class Mail and Priority Mail.