USPS Flat Rate Box Conformity Question

[daniel_ramlock]

Are any sellers using flat rate boxes being questioned about bulging or non-conformity of the boxes at the PO counter??

[nobody*s_perfect · Accepted solution]

Most of those problems quieted down a few years ago when USPS made a big effort to clarify their expectations.  Here's the memo about it: "Proper use of flat rate containers"

https://about.usps.com/postal-bulletin/2016/pb22435/html/updt_002.htm

Specifically:

"Q. What about bulges?

A. As long as the FRE or FRB can close “within the normal folds,” bulges are not a problem. “Flat” refers to the price, not to the shape."

[te_1556]

[daniel_ramlock]

Thanks for the link, just what I needed. Out of 4 employees there just is the only one that ever says anything, just wants to be a pain I guess. Check out this large box she was wining about today, folds and flap ends conform and meet

[lja440]

That would pass at my PO. The only thing is unless this is a UNBREAKABLE item a box that budges like that is kinda a sure sign that it may not be padded well enough. 

Like I told my Mother in Law if you are just shipping clothing to the great grand kids in Australia I'll kneel on the box and we can get it all in a LFRB. If you are sending ANYTHING that can be broken then you need a bigger box and padding.

It's not always if it will ship but often, should it ship. There really is no saving on postage if the items arrive broken.

[mg152]

That should be okay but if it’s breakable it won’t make it. Schedule a pickup online and have your mail carrier pick it up