As a longtime retail and consumer industry expert, I know that shipping items can sometimes be a tricky and costly endeavor, especially when dealing with unusually-shaped packages like mailing tubes. If you need to ship posters, blueprints, maps, golf clubs, fishing rods, or other long items, navigating the USPS mailing tube regulations and shipping costs can seem overwhelming.
Never fear, my fellow picky shoppers! I‘m here to give you the full scoop on everything you need to know to ship tubes like a pro through USPS. We‘ll dive deep into the nitty gritty of size requirements, pricing quirks, and all the insider tips and tricks to get your tube delivered safely and affordably.
USPS Mailing Tube Size and Dimension Requirements
One of the first things to know about shipping tubes with USPS is that they have some fairly specific size requirements. According to the USPS website, mailing tubes must meet these dimensions:
- Length: No more than 10 times the tube‘s diameter
- Diameter: At least 3/4 inch
- Overall dimensions: Maximum total length plus twice the diameter cannot exceed 135 inches
What does this mean in practical terms? Basically, you can‘t use a super long, skinny tube. The tube‘s length can‘t be more than 10 times its width. So a 3-inch diameter tube could be up to 30 inches long, while a 12-inch diameter tube could go up to 120 inches long.
It‘s also important to note that USPS does not accept tubes that are more than 108 inches in length. So even if your tube meets the diameter ratio requirement, it still can‘t be over 9 feet long.
Understanding USPS Pricing (and Dimensional Weight)
Once you‘ve determined that your mailing tube meets the size requirements, the next step is figuring out how much it will cost to ship. USPS prices mailing tubes based on a few key factors:
- Actual weight of the package
- Distance traveling (measured by shipping zones)
- Dimensions/size of the package
That last factor is where things can get a bit tricky. In recent years, USPS (along with other carriers like FedEx and UPS) have implemented "dimensional weight" pricing. This means that for packages over a certain size, your shipping price is calculated based on the size of the package rather than the actual weight.
Per USPS, dimensional weight is calculated as follows:
Length x Width x Height (in inches) / 166 = Dimensional Weight in pounds
If the dimensional weight exceeds the actual weight, you‘ll be charged the dimensional price.
For tubes, this can sometimes result in sticker shock, since they are often relatively large compared to their weight. A long, oversized tube may be subject to a much higher dimensional weight price than you might expect based on the actual weight alone.
USPS Mailing Tube Rates: Costs By Weight and Zone
So what will it actually cost you to ship a mailing tube with USPS? It depends on the specific mail class you choose. Here‘s a breakdown of pricing for the most common classes (as of 2023):
Priority Mail Express Tubes
| Weight | Zones 1&2 | Zone 3 | Zone 4 | Zone 5 | Zone 6 | Zone 7 | Zone 8 | Zone 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lb | $31.65 | $33.05 | $37.80 | $40.55 | $41.95 | $48.35 | $52.30 | $66.15 |
| 5 lbs | $49.10 | $54.60 | $66.75 | $80.35 | $87.25 | $104.40 | $117.75 | $152.35 |
| 10 lbs | $67.80 | $79.00 | $105.40 | $128.60 | $132.60 | $153.45 | $172.35 | $225.60 |
Priority Mail Tubes
| Weight | Zones 1&2 | Zone 3 | Zone 4 | Zone 5 | Zone 6 | Zone 7 | Zone 8 | Zone 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lb | $8.70 | $9.10 | $10.00 | $12.35 | $13.90 | $15.95 | $16.10 | $23.15 |
| 5 lbs | $13.75 | $16.50 | $22.85 | $29.50 | $35.70 | $44.95 | $47.95 | $69.85 |
| 10 lbs | $17.05 | $25.50 | $37.05 | $48.25 | $63.60 | $68.90 | $77.55 | $113.35 |
First-Class Package Service (under 13 oz only)
| Weight Not Over (oz) | Zones 1&2 | Zone 3 | Zone 4 | Zone 5 | Zone 6 | Zone 7 | Zone 8 | Zone 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.50 | $4.50 | $4.50 | $4.50 | $4.80 | $4.80 | $4.95 | $4.95 |
| 4 | $4.95 | $4.95 | $4.95 | $5.45 | $5.60 | $5.75 | $6.00 | $6.00 |
| 8 | $5.55 | $5.55 | $6.15 | $6.70 | $6.85 | $7.00 | $7.25 | $7.25 |
| 12 | $6.10 | $6.10 | $6.60 | $7.30 | $7.50 | $7.85 | $8.20 | $8.20 |
As you can see, prices can vary quite a bit depending on the weight and distance traveled. In general, Priority Mail will be significantly cheaper than Priority Mail Express, though of course with slower delivery times. And if your tube is under 13 ounces, First-Class Package Service can be an incredibly economical choice.
Comparing Carriers: USPS vs UPS vs FedEx for Tube Shipping
While USPS is a top choice for many consumers shipping mailing tubes, it‘s always smart to compare pricing and services between multiple carriers. So how does USPS stack up against competitors like UPS and FedEx?
In general, USPS offers some of the lowest rates for small, lightweight packages. This is especially true if your tube qualifies for First Class Package Service. UPS and FedEx can‘t really compete with that ultra-low price.
However, as packages get larger and heavier, UPS and FedEx start to become more competitive, especially for speedy delivery. A 10 lb, 36" tube going cross country might be cheaper (and faster) with UPS or FedEx Ground than USPS Priority Mail. Though USPS flat-rate options, if the tube fits, can sometimes be an unbeatable value.
Of course, pricing isn‘t the only factor. Consider things like tracking, insurance, delivery times, and pick-up/drop-off options. USPS includes tracking on all Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express shipments. They also offer affordable insurance options (more on that in a bit).
In my experience, USPS generally offers the best mix of affordability and value for the majority of tube shipments. But it never hurts to get quotes from multiple carriers, especially for oddly-sized or heavy tubes.
Packing Tips for Common Tube Shipments
Now that you know the ins-and-outs of USPS tube shipping regulations and costs, let‘s talk about some packing tips for common items shipped in tubes.
Posters and Prints
- Roll your poster around an acid-free cardboard tube for added protection against bending and creasing
- Place the tube inside a larger shipping tube with end caps
- Fill any empty space in the tube with tissue paper or air pillows to prevent shifting
- For high-value items, consider adding a "Do Not Bend" sticker on the outside of the tube
Golf Clubs
- Choose a 6" or 8" diameter heavy-duty tube at least 48-50" long
- Wrap each club individually in bubble wrap, then secure with packing tape
- Fill the tube completely with packing peanuts or air pillows for maximum padding
- Make sure the end caps are very securely taped, as they will be bearing a lot of weight
Blueprints and Maps
- Roll your items around an acid-free cardboard tube
- Place into a shipping tube with plastic end caps (these provide better moisture protection than basic metal or plastic caps)
- Consider rolling your items in a larger sheet of acid-free paper first for extra protection
- If shipping multiple sets, separate each with a sheet of cardboard or foam core
Fishing Rods
- Choose a 4" or 6" diameter tube at least 6 inches longer than your rod and reel
- Remove the reel and pack separately in a box
- Wrap the rod in bubble wrap and secure with tape
- Pad the tube with packing peanuts or inflatable air pillows
- Clearly label the package as containing a fishing rod to avoid rough handling
Saving Money with Free USPS Mailing Tube Supplies
If you‘re going to be shipping a lot of tubes, it‘s worth noting that USPS offers a variety of free mailing tube supplies. These can provide a significant savings over purchasing your own tubes and materials.
The most popular are the Priority Mail Mailing Tubes. These triangular-shaped tubes measure 38" long with a 6" diameter, and are available for free from USPS.com or your local post office. You can use your own packing materials inside for added security. Just remember, you must use them only for Priority Mail shipments.
USPS also offers complimentary Priority Mail triangular tube boxes that are designed to fit around your own shipping tubes for added structure and protection. Just slide your own tube inside one of these for a super secure, no-cost solution.
If you‘ll be shipping with Priority Mail Express, USPS has free tubes for that too. They measure 6" x 38" and can be ordered online.
Taking advantage of these free mailing tube supplies from USPS can be an excellent way for budget-minded consumers to cut down on their shipping expenses.
USPS Insurance for Mailing Tubes: What You Need to Know
One final consideration when shipping mailing tubes is package insurance. After all, you want to make sure you‘re protected in case something happens to your shipment in transit.
USPS includes $100 of insurance coverage automatically on most Priority Mail shipments, and $200 on Priority Mail Express shipments. If you need additional coverage, you can purchase more in increments of $100, up to $5,000.
To file an insurance claim on a tube shipment, you‘ll need proof that the item was damaged or missing upon delivery. A good practice is to take pictures of your items prior to packaging them in the tube, in case you need to provide evidence of their condition.
It‘s important to know that USPS does have some insurance limitations and exclusions for items commonly shipped in tubes, such as artwork, antiques, collector‘s items, and precious metals. These may not be covered, or may require additional signatures and documentation. Always check the USPS insurance rules before purchasing coverage.
Real-World Tube Shipping Examples
Let‘s take a look at a few real-world scenarios to see how USPS tube shipping might play out cost-wise.
Example 1: Shipping a Movie Poster
- Item: 24×36 rolled movie poster
- Packaging: 3" x 36" mailing tube
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Origin: Los Angeles, CA
- Destination: Chicago, IL (Zone 6)
For this shipment, Priority Mail would likely be the most economical choice. The estimated cost would be $15.50. Priority Mail Express would get it there faster but would cost $48.25.
If speed isn‘t a huge priority, you could potentially save a few more dollars by shipping in a smaller tube via First-Class Package Service. A 2" x 26" tube would likely weigh under 13 oz and cost around $7 – though you‘d have to fold the poster to fit.
Example 2: Shipping a Set of Golf Clubs
- Item: Golf clubs in a soft case
- Packaging: 6" x 50" heavy-duty mailing tube
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Origin: New York, NY
- Destination: Miami, FL (Zone 5)
This shipment is significantly heavier, which puts it in a different pricing category. Priority Mail would cost around $55. Priority Mail Express would be $137. Dimensional weight shouldn‘t be a factor, since the tube is only 50" long.
In this case, you might actually find a better price with an alternate carrier like UPS or FedEx, especially if you need it there quickly. Always compare pricing on heavier items.
Example 3: Shipping a Vintage Map
- Item: 48×32 vintage rolled map
- Packaging: 4" x 48" triangle mailing tube
- Weight: 3 lb
- Origin: Dallas, TX
- Destination: Portland, OR (Zone 7)
For this longer tube traveling cross-country, Priority Mail would likely still be the best deal at around $42. The dimensional weight pricing shouldn‘t kick in unless the tube is over 1 cubic foot (which a 4" x 48" tube is not).
Still, it never hurts to compare the Priority Mail pricing to the cost of UPS or FedEx Ground. Depending on your delivery speed needs, those may be viable options for long distance, lightweight tubes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mailing tubes can be a bit trickier to ship than your average box, but USPS offers fairly straightforward service options and pricing. As a savvy shopper, you just need to know the key size and dimensional weight regulations, and choose your carrier and mail class wisely depending on what you‘re shipping.
A few key takeaways:
- Make sure your tube meets the size ratio requirements of length no more than 10x diameter
- Compare rates between carriers, but know USPS is often most affordable for lightweight tubes
- Take advantage of free Priority Mail tube supplies to save money
- Factor in dimensional weight pricing for larger or oddly-sized tubes
- Make sure to pack items securely to avoid damage in transit
- Purchase insurance on high-value items – but know the limitations
Whether you‘re shipping a vintage poster or your trusty golf clubs, I hope this comprehensive guide to USPS mailing tube regulations and shipping costs has given you the information you need to make an informed choice. Happy shipping!
