What Is Flat Rate Shipping? Everything You Need to Know

Customers are more likely to buy the boxes that have low shipping costs. About 50% of customers discard their cart if the shipping cost is very high. So here comes the flat rate shipping term. If you are a brand selling some products, then this option is for you. In this way, your customers are also attracted by the shipping prices. But how is it different from regular shipping?

In this article, we will cover everything about flat rate shipping and the different carriers offering this service.

What Is Flat Rate Shipping in Simplest Terms?

Flat rate shipping is a fixed shipping cost regardless of the weight or distance of the package (within certain limits, of course). This means if you send a box from New York to California or from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, the shipping cost stays the same as long as the box size stays the same.

Prominent Difference Between Flat Rate vs. Standard Shipping for Easy Understanding

Most people get confused between terms like flat rate and standard shipping. But here’s what differentiates between them:

Standard shipping (or what you might call weight-based or zone-based shipping) calculates the cost based on:

The weight of your package
The size/dimensions of the packages are measured and recorded
The distance Zones (How far or near)
The shipping speed that the customer needs

Flat rate shipping, on the other hand, ignores most of that.

You pay a fixed price based on the box size or envelope type, regardless of the weight (up to a limit) or how far it’s going, making it simpler and often more predictable for both sellers and buyers. Some of you often mix it up with free shipping. However, flat rates and free shipping are not the same thing.

Pros of Flat Rate Shipping That Must Be Beneficial for Your Business

Flat rate shipping holds importance for your business. If you invest in flat rate shipping, here’s what you get:

Predictable Costs That Don’t Exceed Your Budget
You don’t need a scale. You don’t need to worry about how far the box is going. You already know the shipping cost. That helps with budgeting and pricing your products.

Time-Saving Factor Is Included
No more calculating shipping based on weight and zones. Just grab the right-sized box, pack it, and send it.

Free Boxes on Certain Services
If you’re using USPS, they give you the boxes for free. That means you save on packaging supplies, which can really add up.

Speedy Delivery Time
USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate usually delivers within 1–3 business days. So you’re not only getting convenience but also speed.

Insurance and Tracking Included for $100
USPS flat rate shipping includes up to $100 insurance (depending on how you pay) and tracking, with no extra fees.

Downsides of Flat Rate Shipping on the Way
Now, we understand this is beneficial, but it lacks in some areas. Flat rate isn’t perfect. There are times when it doesn’t make sense.

Lightweight Items Might Cost More
This is a major setback for consumers thinking of using it. If you’re shipping something small and light, like a t-shirt or necklace, using your own packaging with First-Class Mail or ground shipping might be cheaper than using a flat rate box.

Size Limitations for Some Products
You’re limited to what fits in the box. Sometimes you want to ship something bigger, so you have to choose a medium shipping box option.

Not Always the Cheapest Rates Can Fluctuate
If your items are lightweight and traveling a short distance, zone-based shipping will usually cost less than a flat rate.

How Your Business Benefits from Flat Rate Shipping?

Regardless of your business or brand, whether it is a small startup or an established one, e, flat rate shipping can work well for you. Let’s take an example from USPS because they popularized it. They offer boxes in several standard sizes:

Small Flat Rate Box (Price around $10–15)
Medium Flat Rate Box (Price around $15–18)
Large Flat Rate Box (Price around $18–25)

The shipping boxes’ dimensions vary. So let’s say you’re shipping handmade soaps. If your soaps can fit into a medium flat rate box, whether it weighs 1 lb or 10 lbs, the shipping cost stays at $18 (as of current USPS pricing).

You can get these boxes for free at any USPS location or have them delivered to your door. You only pay for postage when you send the box.

When Is It Time for Your Company to Implement Flat Rate Shipping?

Flat rate shipping is ideal when your packaging is consistent in size. At UPacked, we offer custom-size boxes that help you save on shipping costs. But to consider this, the following scenarios must be met:

You’re shipping heavy items that are small enough to fit in a flat rate box.
You’re shipping across the country, and distance-based shipping would cost more.
You want simple pricing for your customers and business.
You don’t want to deal with scales, calculations, or shipping software.

It’s especially great for:

Books
Electronics
Candles
Small tools
Home goods
Bulkier clothing like hoodies

What About International Flat Rate?

Yes, flat rate shipping also works for international orders, though it gets more expensive and has more restrictions. USPS offers International Flat Rate boxes, but the prices are higher, and shipping times are longer. Still, for small businesses shipping globally, it can be a predictable option, especially for orders to Canada, the UK, and Australia.

However, always compare rates with international services like DHL or consolidated shippers. Sometimes they’re faster and cheaper.

USPS and Other Carriers Offering Flat Rate Shipping

USPS isn’t the only player here. As we have discussed their rates and much more important info, other major carriers offer similar services.

USPS with Multiple Types
Their famous services are Priority Mail and Express Mail flat rate packaging.

UPS Simple Rate for Customers
UPS lets you use your own packaging and ships based on package size, not weight or distance. You choose from 5 box sizes, and shipping takes 1–5 days, depending on the destination.

FedEx Offers One Rate Prices
FedEx also offers flat-rate shipping for Express services. You must use their branded packaging, but pricing is fixed within the U.S.

Amazon is Another Option
You can have the operation choose this one as well. But do note that some restrictions may apply.

Flat Rate Shipping by Carrier On the Basis of Orders

Carrier	Orders Under $100	Orders Over $100
UPS Ground	3–5 business days	1–3 business days
FedEx Ground	3–5 business days	1–3 business days
USPS Priority Mail	2–3 business days	1–3 business days
USPS Express Mail	1–2 business days	1–3 business days
Amazon (U.S. only)	–5 business days (can be up to 7)	1–3 business days

NOTE: These periods can fluctuate depending on your orders.

How to Use Flat Rate Shipping Some Easy Tips to Follow

Pack tightly. Since cost doesn’t depend on weight (within limits), use the space wisely.
Weigh alternatives. Sometimes, zone-based or custom packaging is cheaper.
Combine with free shipping offers. Flat rate helps you predict costs when offering free shipping.

Ending Thoughts to Conclude

Flat rate shipping is a good option and definitely worth it to ship your product easily at flexible rates. But you have to oversee some of the options and choose the carrier that suits you best.

FAQS

What’s the difference between flat rate and ground shipping?

Flat rate has fixed pricing and faster delivery, while ground varies by distance and is usually slower.

What is the meaning of flat rate shipping?

It means a single, fixed shipping fee regardless of distance or package weight.

What is flat rate shipping with FedEx?

FedEx flat rate shipping offers a fixed rate based on package size with 1–3 day delivery via FedEx Express.

What is the flat rate shipping cost?

The cost depends on the package size and carrier, but stays the same regardless of weight or zone.

What is flat rate shipping with USPS Priority Mail?

USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate allows you to send packages for a set price using their standard boxes.

What is flat rate shipping with Priority Mail?

It’s a USPS service where the shipping cost is fixed based on the box used, not the weight or destination.

Is flat rate shipping faster?

Yes, it often uses Priority services and arrives quicker than standard ground shipping.

How long does flat rate shipping take?

Typically, 1–3 business days for domestic U.S. deliveries.

Is flat rate or standard shipping faster?

Flat rate is usually faster as it often includes Priority service.

Recent Blogs

From food and beauty to fashion, electronics, and more, our custom packaging boxes are designed to fit your products, reflect your brand, and stand out on the shelf. You tell us what you need and we will handle the rest. We offer a wide variety of packaging styles to suit every product, brand and occasion.