Hey small artists! If you’re shipping art prints, zines, pins, or small merch, postage costs can add up fast. Good news: the USPS has updated its postage rates as of July 2024, and we’ve got the inside scoop to help you save money and make sure your beautiful work arrives in perfect shape. Here’s your guide to smart, budget-friendly shipping to get your art out to fans without breaking the bank!
Perfect Sizes for Low-Cost Shipping!
First things first: choosing the right sizes can have a huge impact on your postage costs. USPS pricing favors standard shapes and sizes, so let’s keep things easy and affordable:
1. Postcards & Small Prints (4.25” x 6” to 6” x 9”)
- Perfect for: Art postcards, small prints, stickers, and thank-you notes.
- Cost-effective choice: Send your artwork as a standard postcard. Postcard stamps are the lowest rate at around $0.51 each, perfect for mini-prints or small thank-yous.
- Pro Tip: Use a heavier cardstock to protect postcards from bending. You want your art to arrive pristine!
2. Large Flats (9” x 12” or smaller)
- Perfect for: Larger prints, zines, or portfolios.
- Best option: Keep it under 3/4 inch thick to stay in the large flat category, starting at $2.16. Anything bulkier jumps to parcel pricing!
- Pro Tip: Choose padded or rigid mailers to protect your work without exceeding the thickness limit. Add light, flat freebies like stickers to surprise fans without extra costs!
3. Small Packages (up to 12” x 15” x ¾”)
- Perfect for: Framed prints, small boxed items, or custom pins.
- Smart choice: Opt for compact, sturdy packaging—mailers that snugly fit your art. For packages within 12” x 15” and under ¾” thick, stay in the First-Class Parcel range, which costs $4.75 - $6.30 depending on weight.
- Pro Tip: Bubble wrap is your best friend! Use just enough to protect without bulking up the packaging. Lightweight, secure packaging is key to keeping costs low.
Best Bubble Mailer Sizes for Small Artists
Bubble mailers are perfect for shipping small items, keeping them lightweight yet protected. Here are a few great sizes to use, along with approximate costs:
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#000 (4” x 8”) Bubble Mailers
- Ideal for: Keychains, stickers, pins, or small charms.
- Approximate USPS Cost (First-Class Parcel): Around $4.75
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#0 (6” x 9”) Bubble Mailers
- Ideal for: Small prints, single zines, or jewelry.
- Approximate USPS Cost: Around $4.75 - $5.30
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#2 (8.5” x 12”) Bubble Mailers
- Ideal for: Medium prints, small framed artwork, multiple zines.
- Approximate USPS Cost: Around $5.30 - $6.50
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#5 (10.5” x 16”) Bubble Mailers
- Ideal for: Large prints, portfolios, or bulkier items.
- Approximate USPS Cost: Around $6.30 - $8.00
Choosing the right size bubble mailer keeps your shipping affordable and ensures your art arrives safely—just make sure it’s snug, not squished!
Top Tips for Mailing More for Less!
1. Bundle It Up!
If you’re sending multiple prints or items, package them together instead of mailing separately. Bulk mail discounts start with larger orders, so you can ship several items in one go for less.
2. Stick to the Size Limits
Avoid pushing just over the letter or flat size limit—a small adjustment can keep you in the lower cost category. Cutting down a large print to fit flat-rate dimensions, for example, keeps costs low.
3. Use Media Mail for Printed Works
If you’re sending zines, books, or magazines, consider Media Mail! It’s much cheaper than standard parcel rates, starting at $3.92. Remember, Media Mail is only for printed content, so no extras like pins in those packages.
4. Print Your Postage Online 🖨️
Did you know you get discounts for printing postage at home? USPS and third-party sites like Pirate Ship and Stamps.com often offer lower rates. Plus, it’s a timesaver—no waiting in line!
5. Always Add a Return Address
Protect your valuable pieces by including a return address. If your art can’t be delivered, you’ll want it safely back. Adding a return address is a free safety net!
Top Packaging Picks to Keep Your Art Safe & Budget-Friendly
Packaging is crucial for making sure your art arrives in pristine condition. Here are some reliable, affordable materials that small artists love:
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Rigid Mailers: Great for prints and photos, these stay flat and hold up well during transit. Available in a variety of sizes to keep you in lower postage categories.
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Bubble Mailers: Perfect for small 3D items like pins or charms. They’re lightweight and protective, ensuring your work arrives safely.
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Poly Mailers: For non-fragile items like soft goods or zines, poly mailers are ultra-lightweight and water-resistant. Plus, they’re usually cheaper than boxes!
Ship Like a Pro with Kult Kawaii!
Shipping doesn’t have to be a hassle or a budget-breaker. By choosing the right sizes and packaging materials, you’ll keep your costs low and your customers happy. With these July 2024 USPS rates in mind, you’re ready to send your beautiful work far and wide—without spending a fortune!
So get out there, make amazing art, and ship it to your fans—they’re waiting for your creations!