USPS Parcel Select

[jthole]

I just noticed that USPS Parcel Select is way cheaper than Priority for large packages. 
Can any one use it? Are there restrictions? Is it insured?

[sam9876]

Yes.

Yes.

No.

[nobody*s_perfect]

Parcel Select is the online version of the service that used to be known as Parcel Post. Yes, anybody can use it.  It shows up as one of the options when you set up a listing and when you purchase an online postage label.

Priority Mail has a "dimensional weight" surcharge for packages that are going to Zones 5 - 9 if they are over 1 cubic foot (1728 cubic inches).  For those packages, it makes sense to offer both Priority and Parcel Post, so farther buyers can choose whether they want it fast or cheap. 

At current postage rates, the regular online rate for Priority Mail costs exactly the same as Parcel Select, or literally one cent more, with the exception of the 'dimensional weight" mentioned above.  And if you're a TRS, you save 3% on Priority Mail postage rates so it will be even cheaper than Parcel Select.

[dbmm-media]

usually it is less expensive to ship priority than parcel select

[nobody*s_perfect]

You're a Top Rated Seller, so YOUR Priority Mail prices will be 3% less than Parcel Select (except for packages subject to the dimensional weight).

[*coins]

If you are printing your own labels off of eBay, PM is the way to go. Parcel Select is a lot slower, and PM gives you free insurance up to $50.

As others mentioned, PM is the same cost (or lower) if you use eBay labels.

[magicjohnsonsvariety]

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@dbmm-media wrote:

usually it is less expensive to ship priority than parcel select

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Not for very large or heavy boxes, as the OP is suggesting.

I often ship Parcel Select when the customer chooses this service and I can't upgrade them to Priority because the difference is more than just a couple dollars.

After years of declining complaints about shipping costs, the complaining seems to once again be on the increase. Always good to offer as many options as you can for shipping services. Even though they may all seem the same to some, the customer appreciates a seller who lets them choose for themselves.

OP...only thing with PS is to watch those dimensions and irregular sized packages.