What is a media mail parcel
Media Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows for the shipping of printed matter, such as books, CDs, DVDs, and other media, at a lower cost than regular First-Class Mail.
Media Mail is designed for shipping non-urgent, non-perishable items that are not time-sensitive, such as:
- Books (including textbooks, novels, and reference books)
- CDs and DVDs
- Vinyl records
- Audiocassettes
- Video tapes
- Printed music
- Maps
- Posters
- Blueprints
- Printed educational materials
To qualify for Media Mail rates, the item must meet certain criteria:
- The item must be printed matter, as defined by the USPS.
- The item must be shipped to a domestic address (not international).
- The item must not contain any hazardous materials, perishable items, or live animals.
- The item must not be a commercial sample or a catalog.
Media Mail parcels are subject to the following restrictions:
- Maximum weight: 70 pounds (31.8 kg)
- Maximum size: 108 inches (274.3 cm) in length and girth combined
- No signature required upon delivery
- No insurance coverage is available for Media Mail parcels
- Delivery times are typically 2-8 business days, depending on the destination
Media Mail rates are generally lower than First-Class Mail rates, making it a cost-effective option for shipping non-urgent, printed matter items. However, Media Mail parcels are not trackable, and delivery times are not guaranteed.
It's worth noting that Media Mail is not suitable for shipping items that require a signature upon delivery, such as packages containing valuable or sensitive items. In those cases, you may want to consider using a different type of mail service, such as Priority Mail or Parcel Post.