The First Class International Package service from USPS is the cheapest method to ship large envelopes or small packages internationally from the United States and delivered to more than 180 countries.

It is not a quick service and, thus, is not advisable for emergencies or those requiring fast deliveries; however, since it is affordable and has delivery tracking, the First Class Package may work in your favor if timely delivery is not an issue.

USPS First Class Package Shipping is one of the most reliable and affordable shipping services for packages. This service delivers in a short time at a low cost and has extra benefits. Let’s understand this shipping service in detail.

What Can First Class Package Shipping Offer

First Class International Shipping offers many benefits. Some of them are as follows; 

1. Cheapest Shipping Service

As we mentioned, First Class mail is inexpensive and relatively fast. You can easily ship letters or small boxes at your convenience.

2. Serve as International Shipping

First Class also serves as the USPS International Shipping service, among other services. 

3, Ship packages up to 4 lbs.

It is low-cost shipping for all packages. Unlike domestic shipping, First Class International Package allows you to send a parcel as heavy as 4 lbs. or less.  

4. Affordable Shipping Rates

The rates of services for First Class package shipping are different, but none of these services are too expensive. Anyway, it doesn’t take much of an effort to find out the USPS Shipping Estimate.

5. USPS Informed Delivery 

As for the USPS Informed Delivery, it can be an alternative at any time, no matter the chosen shipping method. Hence, you can incorporate Informed Delivery in your First Class Shipping services in case you desire to do so. It will provide several convenient add-ons: reminders when it is delivered, tracking assistance, etc.

6. Certified Mail Service

The USPS First Class Package Shipment also includes Certified Mail service. With it, you get confirmation upon delivery, and this is not only comforting but reasonable, especially when it comes to legal documents. 

7. USPS Schedule Pickup

There is a USPS Scheduled Pickup service, but it is only applicable to commercial package shipping.

The Downside of First Class Package Shipping

Although First Class shipping is relatively very cheap and faster, it is far from being perfect. Let’s take a look at what it lacks.

  • First Class has low postage rates. However, it is not eligible for the USPS Flat Rate Shipping service. 
  • To avail of this option, you don’t have a choice but to select at least the USPS Priority Mail as your delivery service.
  • Policies for USPS Online Shipping are very similar to the ones mentioned above. However, it may be noted that to obtain and use convenient online services like USPS Click and Ship, one has to purchase the shipping form. 
  • Even though First Class shipping makes the packages arrive faster regarding the price, it is still far from the USPS's Fastest Shipping

If you are in a great rush, then go to the option of Express Shipping, which USPS provides. There are Priority Express for domestic delivery and Global Express for delivery across international borders. But when it comes to express shipping, be ready for a USPS Shipping Estimate which is relatively high.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship First Class Mail Package

First-Class Package International Service is a popular way to ship domestic and international shipping, with a per-item weight limit of 4 lbs. (60 oz) and a value for insurance of up to $420. 

It’s shipping prices are starting from $15.00 per piece in the retail market. If you want to send large envelopes under 16 oz, letters up to 3.5 oz, and postcards, then refer to First-Class Mail International service. 

Although It receives delivery confirmation to some of the countries, other restrictions by the destination countries may still apply.  Prices are reasonable, and delivery times are longer. If you’d like to know about the postage rates, go for a USPS Shipping Calculator.

How Much Time Does the First Class Package Usually Take

Its delivery time ranges from 1 to 5 business days if the item is a letter-size mail, while it takes only 1 to 3 working days if it is a small package. However, the whole package needs to be below 13oz

But for First Class Package International transit times will differ depending on how advanced or well established the postal service is in the specific country. 

The USPS recommends waiting from 12 to 20 business days. In case you are in a hurry to receive your parcel from USPS, there is an even better option known as Priority Mail International.

Is USPS First Class a Right Option to Make Default Shipping Service

That depends on what you expect from a delivery service in terms of speed, package size, services offered, and cost of such services. Below are the best shipping options to select depending on several factors.

1. When Cost Matters 

First of all, it will be important to note that, on average, First Class package shipping will be more cost-effective than the others, You can calculate its shipping cost by using the USPS Shipping Calculator. 

But that just means that First Class is not fast and is not convenient; at least other options come faster.

2. When Convenience Matters 

When it comes to convenience, there is nothing like flat-rate shipping because it comes with fixed prices and big boxes. On top of that, it removes any confusion that might have been present in terms of shipping costs

Remember the slogan: "If it fits, it ships." Also, the price does not differ according to the weight of the product.

3. When Speed and Timely Delivery Matters 

When it comes to speed, though, Priority Express has to be the winner of the lot. This option provides the convenience of delivery within the next day to almost all the states in the United States of America with a money-back guarantee to support this service. 

There is also an option to have a courier collect the package from your location, which makes it faster in terms of delivery as well.

Conclusion

Shipping with USPS First Class Package is one of the cheapest ways a company can use to ship products and goods. It will offer you very competitive prices. If none of these methods are feasible, it is recommended to try using a USPS Shipping Calculator to learn about these practices. 

While First Class Mail Package shipping is not the fastest, it is characterized by quite reasonable delivery time limits. However, five working days are not that much time, and if you want proper speed, there is USPS Priority Express Mail

Think of your needs and then pick between the options, which are available at the moment, carefully.

FAQs

1. How many days does it take for a First-Class Package to be delivered internationally?

First-Class Package International Service usually takes from 7 to 21 days to deliver the package to the recipient, depending on the country to which the package is being delivered and customs clearance time.

2. How much does First-Class Package International Service cost?

The initial cost of shipping starts from $14.85, and it depends on the package size, weight, and location.

3. How long does a First-Class Package take for domestic delivery?

Domestic First-Class Package shipping takes 1-3 days, and international delivery takes 7-21 days.

4. Where should I deposit my parcel?

You can take your package to any USPS office or blue mailbox or request free pickup at the convenience of your home.

5. What is the maximum weight that can be allowed on First-Class Package International?

The maximum weight allowed for a package for First-Class Package International Service is 4 pounds or 64 ounces.