Cubic pricing is a USPS option that prices small packages by their size instead of their weight. For small but heavy items, that can mean a much cheaper rate.
- Cubic pricing charges by a package’s volume (dimensions) and zone, not its weight.
- It’s ideal for small, dense/heavy items.
- Qualifies if it’s 20 lb or less and the longest side is 18″ or less — rolls and tubes don’t qualify.
What is cubic pricing?
Most shipping rates are based on weight. Cubic pricing flips that — it sets the rate based on the package’s dimensions (its volume) and the distance (zone) it’s traveling. That makes it especially handy for dense items that would be expensive to send using standard weight-based pricing.
What qualifies for cubic pricing?
- The package weighs 20 lb or less.
- The longest dimension is 18 inches or less.
- Rolls and tubes don’t qualify.
How the rate is figured (the “cubic tier”)
The cubic tier is a classification based on your package’s volume. For rectangular and non-rectangular parcels, you measure the length, width, and height at their widest points, round each down to the nearest 1/4 inch, and multiply them together to get the volume. A smaller volume (and shorter shipping distance) means a lower rate.
