A Complete Cost & Size Guide to UPS Flat Rate Boxes

Saving on shipping is one of the important aspects for every business, from small to large. You spend a lot of cash on shipping, determining the package size, weight, and how big it is.

Especially the e-commerce sellers sending one product to customers require a perfectly fit-sized box, which takes their oversized packaging worry away, as they don’t need to stock boxes of different sizes.

To solve this packaging hassle, UPS introduced a flat rate service known as “UPS Simple Rate” to bring convenience with a set price for every shipment across the USA. This meets reliability and simplicity.

Be smart and transform your shipping experience with UPS flat rate boxes - match your needs and allow you to send packages at a fixed cost.

Stay here with this guide to learn about the sizes, uses, and benefits of flat rate boxes offered by UPS to simplify your shipping costs.

What Are UPS Flat Rate Boxes?

UPS Flat Rate Boxes also known as UPS Simple Rate, are a cost-effective way to ship packages anywhere in the USA at a fixed price. Regardless of the destination or weight (up to 50 lbs), the shipping rate is based solely on the package size and delivery speed.

This flat rate service offered by UPS allows you to pay a single price for seamless logistics, especially for:

• E-commerce sellers
• Subscription box services
• Small businesses shipping frequently

These boxes are ideal for individuals or businesses who tend to ship packages of varying weights and sizes without fluctuating shipping costs.

UPS Flat Rate Box Dimensions, Sizes & Pricing

One UPS box size does not fit all. They come in five different sizes, from XS to X,L and are perfect for holding and shipping items. The dimensions of UPS boxes are based on volume. You have the liberty to choose your own box according to your desire.

1. Extra Small (1-100 cubic inches)

Found in sizes 4 x 4 x 4, 6 x 4 x 4, and 8 x 6 x 2 costs $10.85. It is a good choice for shipping small items or gifts like a pair of glasses, t-shirts, ceramic mugs, or cellphones.

2. Small (101-250 cubic inches)

Available in sizes 6 x 6 x 6, 8 x 6 x 5, and  12 x 9 x 2 costs $14.15. This box works well for shipping books, jewelry, electronics, and cosmetics.

3. Medium (251-650 cubic inches)

Medium flat rate box sizes are available in sizes 8 x 8 x 8, 12 x 9 x 6, and 13 x 11 x 2. It costs $16.90. To ship clothing, underweight household items, shoes, and subscription box kits, this medium flat rate box size is an excellent choice.

4. Large (651-1,050 cubic inches)

The large flat rate box dimensions are available in sizes 10 x 10 x 10, 12 x 12 x 7, and 15 x 11 x 6. It costs $22.30. If you have large electronic items, such as a 14-inch laptop, and large sports equipment, a large flat-rate box is sufficient.

5. Extra Large (1,051-1,728 cubic inches)

Usable in sizes 12 x 12 x 12, 16 x 12 x 9, and 18 x 12 x 6 costs $27.60. Choosing extra-large shipping boxes is ideal for bulky items, tennis rackets, and kitchen appliances.

4 Available UPS Flat Rate Shipping Speed Options

There are four delivery speed options available from UPS. Choose the speed that fits your timeline to simplify logistics:

1. UPS® Ground: Up to 5 business days
2. UPS 3 Day Select®: Within 3 business days
3. UPS 2nd Day Air®: 2 business days
4. UPS Next Day Air®: Next business day

Read More: Will UPS Accept USPS Packages? Everything You Need to Know

Can I Use A USPS Box For UPS shipping?

 Can I ship a USPS Priority box with a UPS label? Is it possible to use USPS shipping bags for shipping through UPS? Can I use USPS moving boxes from UPS shipping? Several questions come to mind when you see the flexibility of using custom packaging offered by UPS.

It is not recommended. Because it is against UPS guidelines which can lead to delay, additional cost, or other complications if the USPS box size and weight do not match the UPS standards.

Top 6 Key Benefits of UPS Flat Rate Box Shipping

UPS flat rate boxes are particularly beneficial for e-commerce businesses or individuals who frequently ship single items. It allows them to pay a straightforward price, convenience, and flexibility to use custom packaging if they prefer. Here is how this smooth shipping process goes.

1. Predictability of Shipping Cost

You are paying one price when you are shipping items within the package weight limit. No matter if the package weight is 3 ounces or 30 pounds, the price remains the same. This predictability allows shippers to calculate shipping costs upfront and avoid unexpected additional fees.

2. Simplified and Smooth Shipping Process

The flat price structure simplifies your shipping process by taking the headache of complex calculations based on package weight, distance, and speed. It helps shippers to determine the shipping cost based on the box size, which makes their order fulfillment process smooth.

3. Flexible Branded Packaging

Unlike other carriers like USPS or FedEx, UPS offers custom packaging for brands at a simple rate. This flexibility wins the confidence of e-commerce sellers to use their own custom packaging and build their brand identity.

4. Volume Efficacy

Choose UPS flat rate boxes with the most frequently lower flat rates. This benefits many businesses or individuals who ship similar-sized items. They use standard packaging, which reduces worry about managing different-sized boxes.

5. Insurance Coverage

All UPS flat rate boxes come under insurance coverage of up to $100, which gives shippers peace of mind that their package is 100% safe against any loss or damage during shipment.

6. Scalable for Businesses

Standardizes shipping with one-size boxes to reduce overhead and packaging variation.

Also Read: UPS Shipping Label Guide: How to Create and Print?

UPS vs. USPS vs. FedEx: Which One Saves You More Money?

UPS (United Parcel Service)

Known for its reliable and ground-based delivery services. It is efficient logistics for domestic and international shipments and ideal for delivering heavy packages and high-value items.

USPS (United States Postal Service)

The most economical option particularly for domestic shipping smaller packages and mail with benefits like weekend deliveries and PO Box services.

FedEx

An expensive courier service provider but excels in express shipping with fast, guaranteed delivery times. Its strong tracking system makes it a perfect choice for shipping urgent, perishable goods or liquor.

These three carriers, UPS, USPS, and FedEx, are offering flat rate options. However, there are significant differences between them. It all depends on your shipping needs, like what and where you want to ship. This decides which carrier is the most suitable to meet your needs.

Each courier service provider has its strengths. The best choice depends on factors such as delivery speed, cost, and the nature of the shipment.

Conclusion

Today, flat rate shipping is not a riddle as its secrets are unlocked. Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the basics and benefits of this flat rate service by comparing it with other shipping service providers to minimize your shipping-related hassle and help your business smoothly manage its shipments.

If you need shipping boxes in small to large sizes to pack your fragile to heavy-duty items, connect with Custom Product Packaging to streamline your business and make your shipping boxes ready. We are just one message away from you. Email us at orders@customproductpackaging.com. We are here to assist you and provide exceptional service.

FAQs

1: What does flat rate shipping mean?
Flat rate shipping means a fixed cost for shipping regardless of the weight and size of the package.

2. Can you ship priority mail in any box?
Yes, you can ship Priority Mail in any box when it meets USPS size, weight, and packaging requirements.

3. Is it cheaper to use a flat rate box or your own box?
It depends on the weight and size of your box. Flat rate boxes are cheaper for heavy or bulky items. If you use your own box, it may be cheaper for lighter, smaller shipments, but not for heavier products.

4:  How does click and ship work?
USPS offers this Click-N-Ship service. It allows you to create and print USPS shipping labels online. You just enter shipment details, pay for postage, and print the label. Once the label is printed, paste it on the package.

5: Does UPS have flat rate boxes?
Yes, UPS offers flat rate boxes (known as simple rate) in which you pay a fixed shipping cost regardless of weight of 50 lbs.

6. Where to find flat rate boxes?
You can get flat rate boxes from post offices or shipping carriers like USPS.

7. Is it cheaper to use your own box or UPS box?
Using your own box can be cheaper for lighter or smaller items. UPS flat rate boxes may be a better option for heavy items.

8. Is UPS cheaper than USPS flat rate?
USPS is cheaper for smaller and lightweight packages. UPS is cheaper for larger and heavier shipments.

9. Are flat rate boxes worth it?
Yes, they can be worth it if you are shipping heavy items over long distances.

10. Does UPS have a flat rate envelope?
No, UPS flat rate envelope are not offered.