articles that qualify for media mailing
In addition to its mission, fees, and rules, postal mail delivery is unique in another way: it is open to postal inspection. That means when you send a package through Media Mail Rates, you’re consenting to having its contents inspected. If your packaged items are not on the approved list, you could be charged with mail fraud. or, more likely, you or your customer will be charged priority mail rates.
If you don’t want your customers to receive a sealed package with a surprise postage due, please pay attention to the following rules and restrictions before sending your media mail package.
articles that qualify for media mailing
This list covers the basics, but if in doubt, check out the full list on the USPS website for more details.
- books (at least 8 pages)
- sound recordings and video recordings, such as cds and dvds
- scripts and manuscripts for books, periodicals and music
- printed music
- computer-readable media containing prerecorded information and guides or scripts prepared solely for use with such media
- films sixteen millimeters or less in width
- printed objective test materials and their accessories
- printed educational reference charts
- loose-leaf pages and their binders consisting of medical information for distribution to physicians , hospitals, medical schools and medical students
You may not combine any of these items with non-qualifying items in the same package, including business cards and notes. An additional attachment is allowed only if it is strictly related to the article you are submitting, for example:
- invoices and invoices
- a brief notice introducing the media
- instructions for the use of the media
- corrections to any information printed on the media
finally, multimedia mail packages may not contain advertising or marketing of any kind.
what can and cannot be sent by post
The following items are high on the “may be sent blank via media mail” list:
- puzzles: no, the usps classifies puzzles and puzzle books as entertainment (regardless of how you view them).
- video games: no, video games do not qualify and neither do traditional board games.
- old magazines: no, magazines contain advertising and even old ads are not allowed.
- cassette tapes: yes, as long as they are not blank. the same goes for cds and dvds.
- flashcards: yes, but school supplies like pencils and empty folders, no.
multimedia mail packaging rules
multimedia mail packages can weigh up to 70 pounds and measure up to 108 inches in length and distance combined around the thickest part. If your package weighs less than 8 ounces, it’s less expensive to ship first class.
multimedia mail packages must include the full sender and recipient addresses.
You can protect your mail shipments from media such as other packages with packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or other padding.
pros and cons of sending multimedia mail
The appeal of media mailing is the price, which starts as low as $2.80 for a one-pound package. Plus, you can take advantage of many of the same services you get with more expensive shipping options, including free and optional tracking:
- cash on delivery
- insured mail
- delivery confirmation
- signature confirmation
The main disadvantage is that your package will take longer to reach its destination. a couple of other things you might want to consider before you mail:
- less care is taken with the package. Your box of used paperbacks will arrive intact, but wrap it carefully.
- It’s a bit confusing to track what qualifies for media mailing. if in doubt, contact your local post office.
media mailing with pitneyship
You can purchase postage and print shipping labels for your multimedia mail packages at home with Pitneyship. With subscriptions starting at $4.99 a month, pitneyship offers members access to services from major carriers, often at discounted prices.