USPS Cubic Pricing is a specialized shipping option that allows businesses to lower their shipping costs on small, heavy packages. Instead of basing the shipping rate on weight, Cubic Pricing determines the rate based on the package’s dimensions and the shipping distance (or zone). This makes it particularly beneficial for shipping dense items that might be costly to send using standard weight-based pricing.
How Cubic Pricing Works
USPS Cubic Pricing is ideal for packages weighing 20 pounds or less, with the longest dimension not exceeding 18 inches. Rolls and tubes, however, do not qualify for this pricing. Cubic Pricing rates are determined by the volume of the package, calculated using its dimensions (length, width, and height), rather than its weight. This method is unique compared to the typical weight-based rates used by most major carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL.
Determining the Cubic Tier
The Cubic Tier is a classification used to determine the appropriate shipping rate. It’s calculated based on the package’s volume:
For Rectangular and Nonrectangular Parcels: Measure the package’s length, width, and height at their maximum points, round down each measurement to the nearest 1/4 inch, and then multiply these dimensions. Divide the total by 1,728 to find the cubic foot measurement.
For Soft Pack and Padded Envelopes: Measure the length and width of the original flat packaging material, round down each measurement to the nearest 1/4 inch, and then add the two measurements to determine the cubic tier.
Cubic Pricing Tiers
There are five cubic pricing tiers for Priority Mail and ten tiers for USPS Ground Advantage. Each tier corresponds to a range of volumes, from 0.10 cubic feet to 1.00 cubic feet. The tier you fall into will determine your shipping rate according to the USPS cubic rate tables.
Benefits of Cubic Pricing
For businesses, USPS Cubic Pricing offers a strategic advantage by allowing them to save on shipping costs for small, dense packages. Since the rate is determined by the cubic tier rather than weight, businesses can significantly reduce their shipping expenses when sending out compact but heavy items.
This detailed understanding of USPS Cubic Pricing can help you make informed decisions about your shipping strategy, potentially lowering costs and improving your bottom line.
