Save Time and Money on Shipping with Priority Flat Rate Envelopes - USPS Hack!

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the use of Priority Flat Rate Envelopes from USPS for mailing host packets and other materials related to Pampered Chef business. Participants share their experiences and tips regarding the process of obtaining and using these envelopes to save time and money on shipping.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares their experience of using Priority Flat Rate Envelopes to save on shipping costs and time, highlighting the convenience of ordering them online for free delivery.
  • Another participant mentions that they have heard about this method before but appreciates the detailed information provided in the thread.
  • One user notes that if the Priority Flat Rate Envelopes are not available, using a personal envelope with regular Priority Rate is also an option, which they found to be very affordable.
  • A participant expresses their challenges with mailing due to military restrictions, noting they must hand deliver packets instead.
  • Several users mention the benefit of free delivery confirmation when using the online shipping option, allowing them to track when packets are delivered.
  • One participant asks for clarification on how to enter package weight for flat rate shipping, indicating some confusion about the process.
  • Another participant provides guidance on entering an estimated weight for flat rate shipping, acknowledging the complexity of the system.
  • One user, who works for USPS, shares their prior experience with using flat rate shipping for personal sales and expresses gratitude for the shared advice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the ease of using the USPS system for shipping, with some participants expressing satisfaction while others encounter challenges. No clear consensus emerges regarding the overall experience with the shipping process.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences related to shipping host packets, with some discussing specific challenges based on their circumstances, such as military restrictions on mailing.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for cost-effective and efficient ways to mail materials related to their Pampered Chef business may find this discussion beneficial.

esavvymom
esavvymom
Staff member
Messages
7,881
I know alot of us end up mailing Host Packets and such, and it's not cheap. (I'm hoping this year to do less MAILING and more delivering- either at shows, or in person).BUT, if you do still have do it via mail now and then, one thing I've recently discovered is much easier, is to just Send them Priority Flat Rate Envelopes. You can go online to the Usps.com and in their store https://shop.usps.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=10052&parent_category_rn=10000002&categoryId=10000033&top_category=10000002&langId=-1&catalogId=10001- select the Flat Rate boxes/envelopes. You can get them for FREE- they'll ship to your door!! You'll get the envelopes or boxes or whatever you prefer. Priority Flat Rate Envelopes cost $4.75-$4.90 to ship. If you purchase and print your shipping label online- it costs $4.75. If you buy it at the Post Office- it's $4.90 (plus the hassle of going to the post office). Just create an account on their site, and then you can buy and print online! Save time and a little money...plus your host gets her stuff in 2-3 days!I print mine on regular paper and just tape it to my Flat Rate Envelope and stick it in the mailbox (or by it). You can also schedule pickup of the item (during the checkout).Wasn't sure how many knew this feature with the USPS, but it's handy and saves me a ton of trips to the Post Office!
 
Someone else has mentioned this to me, but they didn't give all the details. Thanks for this post! I am going to consider doing this!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Oh- and if you don't have the Priority Flat Rate Envelopes on hand yet, you can use one of your own and just choose the regular Priority Rate...I did that today and it was only $0.05 (buying online).Just a note- the button to purchase your postage online is on the LEFT side of the screen that comes up showing you the prices. It's not huge, but just look on the left of the table with the prices/options.
 
That's GREAT info Bobbi!I miss the USPS! We are not allowed to use the military mail for business purposes. Therefore, I have to hand deliver all of my packets. There is no mail delivery to my residence nor would I ever have the option of having a mail carrier pick up something at my residence. :( Ahhh, the sacrifices we military wives have to make! ;)
 
I do this all the time. Get the free envelopes at the post office or you can order them online for absolutely free. I don't even request carrier pick up--my carrier will take them anytime I leave them out.
 
And free delivery confirmation is included in that internet price! You put in your e-mail address, and you'll get an e-mail when they've delivered the packet. I love doing it this way! Then I know when the host got it for sure and can follow up w/ them accordingly. :)
 
Okay, I'm the resident dummy. I just ordered some envelopes (which I found to be very exciting), and I see where to "print a shipping label" but it asks me for the package weight, and there's no option to select a flat rate box. What am I doing wrong?
 
Keith, when it's a flat rate, you put in an estimated shipping weight and on the next page you can select flat rate. It's dumb, but that's how it works.
 
Thanks for the great advertisement for the United States Postal Service!!! (My FT job!) I have done this type of thing when selling things on Ebay (pre-pampered chef days) but haven't thought to send host packets that way!
Thanks for the great advice...(and job security!) :D
 
you have to put in a weight of at least 13 oz--anything less can go regular first class.A host packet with 3 catalogs, a show planner, opp brochure, and host/guest specials is about 16 oz or so.
 
Thanks for the great advertisement for the United States Postal Service!!! (My FT job!) I have done this type of thing when selling things on Ebay (pre-pampered chef days) but haven't thought to send host packets that way!
Thanks for the great advice...(and job security!)
Click to expand...
I thank you all as well -- as it's my PT job. This is a great way to send your host packets.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Priority Flat Rate Envelopes and how do they work?

Priority Flat Rate Envelopes are a shipping option offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows you to send items at a fixed rate, regardless of weight or distance, as long as they fit within the envelope. This can save you money on shipping costs, especially for heavier items.

How can using Priority Flat Rate Envelopes save me time?

Using Priority Flat Rate Envelopes can save you time by eliminating the need to weigh packages and calculate shipping costs for each order. You can simply use the flat rate pricing, which allows for quicker shipping preparation and more efficient processing of orders.

Are there size limitations for items shipped in Priority Flat Rate Envelopes?

Yes, there are size limitations for items shipped in Priority Flat Rate Envelopes. The maximum weight for these envelopes is 70 pounds, and items must fit within the dimensions of the envelope, which typically measures 9.5 inches by 12.5 inches for the standard envelope. Be sure to check the specific size requirements for different types of flat rate envelopes.

Can I use Priority Flat Rate Envelopes for international shipping?

Yes, USPS offers international shipping options using Priority Flat Rate Envelopes. However, the rates and regulations may differ from domestic shipping, so it's important to check the USPS website for specific guidelines and pricing for international shipments.

Is there a way to track my shipments when using Priority Flat Rate Envelopes?

Yes, all Priority Mail shipments, including those sent in Flat Rate Envelopes, come with tracking included at no additional cost. You can easily track your shipment through the USPS website or mobile app using the tracking number provided when you ship your package.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Save Time and Money with USPS Click-n-Ship for Easy Postage and Free Pickup!
  • susanr613
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
Replies
13
Views
2K
jwpamp
Shipping Rate on Supply Orders Going up
  • babywings76
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
2 3 4
Replies
92
Views
10K
babywings76
Try Stamps.com: $100 in Extras with No Long-Term Commitment
  • Becca_in_MD
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
Replies
29
Views
4K
raebates
forMilitary (& Familes): New Shipping Options From Usps
  • nikked
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
2
Views
1K
sharalam
When Do Postal Rates Change and What Will Be Changing?
  • Kathytnt
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
Replies
14
Views
2K
KellyTheChef
Fire- Need Christmas $- Current and Retired
  • niclowther
    • Buy Pampered Chef Items
2
Replies
42
Views
5K
riannasmom
Why Did Office Depot's Shipping Restrictions Frustrate My Fundraising Efforts?
  • 3girls
    • Pampered Chef Sales
Replies
2
Views
2K
3girls
Lots of Pampered Chef Logo Items and Training Material
  • iteachurkid
    • Buy and Sell Items
Replies
24
Views
4K
andreaskitchen2010
Logo Items and Training Material for Sale
  • imported_iteachurkid
    • Sell Pampered Chef Items
Replies
9
Views
3K
imported_iteachurkid
Logo Wear, Totes and Discontinued Products
  • frozenchef
    • Buy and Sell Items
2
Replies
51
Views
8K
girlygirl
Back
Top