Can comic books go media mail

In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has specific guidelines for shipping comic books, which are considered "periodicals" or "magazines" for postal purposes.

According to the USPS, comic books can be shipped via Media Mail, which is a cost-effective and efficient way to send them. However, there are some requirements and restrictions to keep in mind:

  1. Weight and size limits: Comic books must weigh less than 70 pounds and have a maximum size of 12 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 5/8 inch in thickness.
  2. Binding: Comic books must be bound in a way that prevents them from falling apart or becoming disassembled during shipping. This can include stapling, binding with glue, or using a spiral binding.
  3. Content: Comic books must contain a minimum of 50% text or illustrations, and must not be primarily composed of blank pages or advertisements.
  4. Labeling: The package must be labeled as "Media Mail" and include the sender's and recipient's addresses.

To ship comic books via Media Mail, you'll need to follow these steps:

  1. Prepare your package: Place the comic books in a sturdy box or envelope, making sure they are securely bound and protected from damage.
  2. Calculate the weight and dimensions: Weigh the package and measure its length, width, and thickness to ensure it meets the USPS requirements.
  3. Determine the postage: Use the USPS Media Mail rate chart to calculate the postage based on the weight and size of your package.
  4. Affix the label: Attach the Media Mail label to the package, making sure to include the sender's and recipient's addresses.
  5. Drop it off: Take the package to a USPS location or schedule a pickup to have it shipped.

Keep in mind that Media Mail is a slower service than other USPS options, with delivery times ranging from 2-8 business days, depending on the destination. Additionally, Media Mail is not trackable, so you won't be able to monitor the package's progress.

If you're unsure about shipping comic books via Media Mail or have specific questions, it's always a good idea to consult with your local post office or the USPS website for more information.