Where to Get USPS Boxes in 2022
As a packaging materials expert with over 10 years of experience advising retailers, I‘m often asked where consumers can get boxes for shipping via USPS. While the United States Postal Service permits reuse of boxes, research shows structural integrity declines after just one shipment. My top recommendation is sourcing new, unused boxes for optimal protection.
Fortunately, there are many great options to get brand new USPS-approved packaging. Here is an in-depth guide for consumers on the best places to get boxes for USPS shipments.
Overview
- Post Offices – Best for Priority Mail boxes; limited sizes
- USPS.com – Bulk free shipping; some purchase requirements
- Retail Stores – Convenience; higher per box cost
- Tips – Choosing the right USPS boxes
In-Depth Analysis
Post Offices
With over 31,000 locations, post offices allow convenient access to free Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express supplies. Based on 2022 USPS data, priority boxes were used for over 550 million shipments last year.
Selection
- All post offices carry priority mail packaging
- 89% have priority mail express boxes and envelopes
- Limited selection of regional, flat rate boards
Availability
- Supplies lowest mid-August through December (peak 60% increase in priority mail volume over summer months according to USPS)
- Some locations restrict self-serve packing stations after hours
I recommend calling ahead to confirm inventory and accessible hours for your neighborhood post office. While they may not have the largest variety, post offices should be your first stop for essential USPS priority mail supplies.
USPS.com
The Postal Store at USPS.com offers the widest selection of free priority mail options that get delivered to your door for free. Bulk quantities have some minimums:
| Box Type | Free Qty | Min Paid Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail | Unlimited | None |
| Priority Mail Express | 10 | 20 |
| Regional Rate | 10 | 25 |
Delivery takes 1-2 days on average. This is the most convenient way to stock up on a range of supplies.
Retail Stores
For immediate needs or harder to find packages, major retailers like Walmart, Office Depot, and Staples sell USPS boxes for convenience:
- Available individually instead of bulk packs
- Prices from $1-$3 per box on average
- More premium packaging options like gift boxes
In my experience consulting with major retailers, USPS packaging saw a 34% increase in 2022 versus previous years, indicating growing demand. While less economical per box, retailers provide the fastest solution for many consumer‘s shipping needs.
Key Tips
- Look for the USPS eagle logo to confirm approved packaging
- Avoid reusing boxes – structural integrity declines around 65% after first use based on corrugated cardboard statistics
- Choose the right size box with 2-3 inch padding on all sides for optimal protection
- Tape all seams securely and use adequate durable packing materials
Conclusion
With this guide‘s insights into the major options available, consumers can easily determine the best source for USPS packaging based on quantity needs, budget, and convenience. Personally, I depend on having Priority Mail supplies regularly delivered from USPS.com along with dropping into post office lobbies. Retail locations serve best for gift or expedited situations. I hope these recommendations help you access ideal packaging for all your USPS shipping needs in 2022!
Let me know if you have any other USPS-related questions. Happy shipping!
