FedEx will not accept USPS boxes any more . . .

[ypbigdog]

So, we have, on occasion, packed something in a USPS Box (Flat Rate or otherwise) and when we went to generate a label, we discovered it was much cheaper via FedEx and/or UPS. Well, as of today, that came to a screeching halt! Our local FedEx 'Store' advised me today that they will no longer accept USPS boxes of any sort .... no if's, and's or but's. They went on to say the UPS should be doing the same. They stated that this is now viewed as copyright infringement. Even if you are actually recycling a previously used USPS Box, they stated their answer would be the same. They described it as a "hard" no with no exceptions. We just wanted to pass this along in case other sellers weren't aware.

Best wishes and Happy Selling to all.

[bangordiscount]

 To me this is common sense... USPS creates these boxes with the sole purpose of being used for USPS services. If you find later on their is a cheaper shipping option, repackage. It's that simple. You didn't pay for the shipping box, you took it with what should have been an understanding that you're using it for the applicable USPS service (i.e. Priority Mail).

If you want to recycle it, do so by sending it via USPS again.

[wastingtime101]

I'm surprised you got away with it for so long. Facilities near me have never accepted packages with a different carrier's logo - that goes for FedEx, UPS, DHL and USPS.

[lotzofuniquegoodies]

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@ypbigdog wrote:

So, we have, on occasion, packed something in a USPS Box (Flat Rate or otherwise) and when we went to generate a label, we discovered it was much cheaper via FedEx and/or UPS. Well, as of today, that came to a screeching halt! Our local FedEx 'Store' advised me today that they will no longer accept USPS boxes of any sort .... no if's, and's or but's. They went on to say the UPS should be doing the same. They stated that this is now viewed as copyright infringement. Even if you are actually recycling a previously used USPS Box, they stated their answer would be the same. They described it as a "hard" no with no exceptions. We just wanted to pass this along in case other sellers weren't aware.

Best wishes and Happy Selling to all.

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Another possible solution if you wanted to "recycle" these boxes would be to split and reverse. Taping as required. You may need to cover any logos on end to meet the couriers specifications. 

-Lotz

[katzrul15]

Our fedex never would that I am aware of - sticklers for sure.

UPS - they take anything and slap a label on it.  Good to go!

[wastingtime101]

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@lotzofuniquegoodies wrote:

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Another possible solution if you wanted to "recycle" these boxes would be to split and reverse. Taping as required. You may need to cover any logos on end to meet the couriers specifications. 

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USPS boxes are printed inside and outside to deter/catch the flippers. They're also printed with text that says someone is breaking federal law by using the box for something other than its intended purpose (USPS Priority Mail service).

[lotzofuniquegoodies]

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@wastingtime101 wrote:

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@lotzofuniquegoodies wrote:

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Another possible solution if you wanted to "recycle" these boxes would be to split and reverse. Taping as required. You may need to cover any logos on end to meet the couriers specifications. 

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USPS boxes are printed inside and outside to deter/catch the flippers. They're also printed with text that says someone is breaking federal law by using the box for something other than its intended purpose (USPS Priority Mail service).

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Thanks for the update. Being in Canada I have no access to USPS boxes. As for UPS/Fedex honestly can't recall the last time I needed to use one. I guess flipping will not be tolerated.

-Lotz

[postingid7659]

I had one item come to me FedEx in a USPS box.  I emailed the seller and told him while I really didn't care, he was risking somebody being upset over it because of improper use of the box. 

I think I sent one out that way too, in a pinch.  But I never made a habit of it, either that was all I had on hand to fit the item, or I had packed it and then discovered FedEx to be much cheaper. 

[fashunu4eeuh]

USPS considers that as misuse of their materials, to attempt mailing via an alternate shipping service while packaged in a USPS box. I am very surprised your FedEx allowed it before. It is a punishable offense.

Misuse of USPS supplies can result in fines from the U.S. government, as well as unhappy eBay customers and bad feedback.

[dbfolks166mt]

     I have re-used/recycled USPS boxes that I have received items in and most of the time they go through USPS again but a couple of times I have sent items through UPS or FedEx and when I do I simply wrap the box in shipping paper. 

     I have also used recycled boxes for box in a box shipping where I am adding additional protection to the item being shipped. 

[buyselljack2016]

UPS here refuses boxes wrapped in shipping paper.

[toysaver]

When you order supplies from USPS you sign/agree to a disclaimer that you won't use them for any purpose other than the intended use.