The Basics of Parcel Shipping

When you look at its definition in reference books or sites, a parcel is essentially a package that’s sent using the postal service. This definition is correct, but it’s not particularly accurate. Various parcel shipping services have different definitions for what qualifies as a parcel. Basically, however, it’s a service used to ship items that are too big or too heavy to be delivered as ordinary mail yet still too small to be sent through freight or maritime shipping. It is the shipping service of choice when sending bulk items and merchandise, as well as specific items like books.

In the United States, a certain item can be sent through parcel shipping if it does not exceed 70 pounds. In terms of length limitations, the package will be measured according to the distance around the parcel’s thickest part and its overall length. The combined measurements for these two should not exceed 130 inches.

The rates and fees for parcel shipping, of course, depend on the item’s weight, the package’s shape (packages that are of unusual shapes are harder to handle), and the delivery’s distance. There are additional charges for packages that exceed these limits.

Generally, box shipping is cheaper than usual shipping services, although it is known to be slower than most shipping options. This is why many people prefer parcel post compared to the priority mail service in the United States. Like parcel post, priority mail accepts packages that are typically large for regular mail. The main difference: priority mail is faster. In fact, the likes of eBay and Amazon use this type of delivery service to send out purchases to customers. This is why many individuals opt to use other means of shipping when the package exceeds the limit for parcel post.

However, these past few years, International parcel shipping is become faster and faster. Although it isn’t as fast as priority mail, the speed is serviceable enough, especially when you consider the price. At most, the parcel will be delivered after a week, compared to priority mail’s three days. The actual time of delivery will depend on the distance, of course.

Parcel shipping adheres to the usual standards of package shipping and delivery. Certain items cannot be sent through parcel posts. These items include firearms, live animals, money, tobacco, alcohol, plants, animal skin (such as fur), and perishable good, among others. Some shipping and delivery companies, however, allow certain illegal and hazardous materials, although they may charge extra for it.