How to determine Parcel Post shipping rates

Starting with the change in postage rates effective June 30, 2002, Parcel Post packages weighing two or more pounds are subject to zoned rates. That is, the postage varies depending on how far you are from where I live. The two tables below, when used together, will give you the postage for Parcel Post packages mailed from me (90720, in California) to you (wherever you are in the United States).

First, go to the Postal Zone Chart and find your zip code in the Zip Code Prefix column. The column to the right tells you what zone you’re in. For example, if your zip code is 80231 (Denver, Colorado), you’re in zone 5.

Next, go to the Parcel Post Rate Chart. Find the weight of the item in the left-hand column. Move across the row to the column with your zone number. This will be the Parcel Post shipping fee.

For example, shipping a two-pound item to Denver will cost $4.14. If you live in Fresh Meadows, New York, your zip code begins with 113, which puts you in zone 8; the same book will cost $4.49 to ship Parcel Post. If you’re in Henderson, Nevada (zone 3), the shipping will be $3.85.

Please note that these figures are based on information downloaded from the Postal Service web site and are accurate to the best of my knowledge. However, I do not assume responsibility for any errors; if the actual shipping cost of an item as determined by the post office is higher than the cost listed here, the buyer will be responsible for the actual cost.

You can double-check a shipping cost quoted here by using the Postal Service’s on-line Domestic Calculator, which you can go to by clicking this link (use 90720 in the From ZIP Code field and your zip code in the To ZIP Code field).