Automated Package Verification

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To continue providing affordable and efficient shipping, USPS has automated how we verify postage on Click-N-Ship ® and PC Postage ® package labels. Below, we detail our Automated Package Verification (APV) process and offer some tips to help you improve your shipping process and correctly calculate postage to ensure you're not overpaying or underpaying.

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How to Calculate Postage Correctly

Weigh Your Item and Round Up

When calculating the postage price for your package, USPS rounds up the weight (to the next pound for most heavier packages or to the next available ounce-rate for some lightweight packages). This applies to all mail classes—domestic and international. For example, if your package weighs 3 lbs 4 oz, it would be charged at the 4 lb-rate. However, if you have a lightweight USPS Ground Advantage ® package that weighs 5 oz, you’ll pay the 8 oz-price (based on the available pricing increments: 4 oz, 8 oz, 12 oz, and 15.999 oz).

Measure Your Package

• For ground shipping via Parcel Select Delivery Destination Unit (DDU) or Destination Hub (DHUB), you'll pay more if your package measures:
  • Between 22 and 30 inches long: add $2.00
  • More than 30 inches long: add $6.00
  • More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches): add $18.00
  • Between 22 and 30 inches long: add $3.00
  • More than 30 inches long: add $7.20
  • More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches): add $18.00
  • Between 22 and 30 inches long: add $4.00
  • More than 30 inches long: add $8.40
  • More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches): add $18.00
  • Between 22 and 30 inches long: add $4.00
  • More than 30 inches long: add $18.00
  • More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches): add $30.00

  Label Your Package Correctly

  USPS provides a wide range of shipping options to help you meet your mailing needs. Make sure that the label you are using matches the packaging. For example, if you are using a Flat Rate Box, you should also use a Flat Rate label. Anything shipped in Priority Mail packaging requires a Priority Mail label. Also, ensure you place the label on the long side of the box. Labels should not wrap over the ends or edges, and all barcodes should face up in the same direction.

  Double-Check the Zone

  If you are using PC Postage software, verify that the sender’s address is up to date before printing the label. Please note USPS charges by zone not by ZIP Codes ™ ; use the Domestic Zone Chart to get the zone for your destination ZIP Code ™ . To get the most accurate postage cost by zone and weight, use the Business Price Calculator.