USPS International Service Details

The PayPal Shipping Center offers the following USPS International Services options when creating an international shipping label:

  • USPS First-Class International Package

  • USPS Priority Mail International

  • USPS Priority Mail Express International

The USPS offers a number of different services to ship your packages internationally. Each service has its own specific requirements and costs, so it is important to review your selections carefully before you ship to avoid delays or cost adjustments.

The sections below will help you compare the available international shipping services in the PayPal Shipping Center.

Why does my label have two tracking numbers?

When you create a label for a USPS international service, you will automatically receive a Global Advantage Program label.

The Global Advantage Program (GAP) for PayPal Shipping Center is an international shipping program through USPS that provides an economical way to ship merchandise internationally.

The GAP label shows a destination address of a domestic Postal Processing sorting facility, where USPS will first send the shipment. From there, your shipment will be relabeled for and sent to its international destination.

The label has two tracking numbers: one for the sorting facility, and one for the international recipient's address.

USPS First-Class International Packages

USPS First-Class International Package service is the best option when you are shipping lightweight packages - less than 4 lbs - to international destinations.

Maximum Package Weight

Package Dimension Limits

  • Maximum dimensions for international shipments: 24" Length, L+H+W= 36"

USPS Letter and Large Envelope/Flat Restrictions

If you use the Letter or Large Envelope/Flat package types for shipping internationally, the letters and envelopes/flats must be rectangular or an additional charge may apply. Learn more about First-Class Large Envelope/Flats and Letters from USPS.

Delivery Timeline

  • International delivery times vary by destination. First-Class Package Service is not recommended if timely delivery is important.

Confirmation Options

  • Available confirmation options depend on the destination.

Liability Coverage

  • Insurance is not included with this service.

Important

The declared value for First Class Mail International cannot exceed the $400 maximum limit for this package type. If your package needs to be declared over $400 we recommend using the package/service type for Priority Mail International for this package.

Restrictions

  • There are restrictions for mailing restricted, prohibited, and hazardous materials, including alcohol, cigarettes, and perishable items. Learn more about restrictions.

USPS Priority Mail International

Priority Mail International is a versatile, efficient, and affordable service. Delivery is estimated between 6-10 business days.

This is an international service. International mail originates in the United States and is transported to another country. This excludes U.S. territories and military posts destinations (which are considered domestic).

Maximum Package Weight

  • Maximum weight for Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes and Small Flat Rate Boxes is 4 lbs.

  • Maximum weight for Medium and Large Priority Mail International Flat Rate Boxes is 20 lbs. When sealing a Flat Rate Envelope or Box, the container flaps must be able to close within the normal folds.

  • Maximum weight for packages sent by weight is 70 lbs. Some countries have lower weight restrictions.

Package Dimension Limits

  • Maximum combined length and girth (the thickest part of the package) is 108".

USPS Letter and Large Envelope/Flat Restrictions

If you use the Letter or Large Envelope/Flat package types for shipping internationally, the letters and envelopes/flats must be rectangular or an additional charge may apply. Learn more about First-Class Large Envelope/Flats and Letters from USPS.

Delivery Timeline

  • 6-10 business days.

Confirmation Options

  • Adult Signature and Signature confirmation available for additional fee.

Liability Coverage

  • Up to $200 included.

Restrictions

  • There are restrictions for mailing restricted, prohibited, and hazardous materials, including alcohol, cigarettes, and perishable items. Learn more about restrictions.

USPS Priority Mail Express International

Priority Mail Express International is the quickest of the USPS international services. Delivery is estimated between 3-5 business days with guaranteed delivery per destination.

Maximum Package Weight

Package Dimension Limits

  • Flat Rate Envelope: 12 1/2" x 9 1/2"

  • Legal Flat Rate Envelope: 15" x 9 1/2"

  • Padded Flat Rate Envelope: 12 1/2" x 9 1/2"

  • For weight-based rates, you can use your own custom packaging or order free shipping supplies from USPS.

USPS Letter and Large Envelope/Flat Restrictions

If you use the Letter or Large Envelope/Flat package types for shipping internationally, the letters and envelopes/flats must be rectangular or an additional charge may apply. Learn more about First-Class Large Envelope/Flats and Letters from USPS.

Delivery Timeline

  • International delivery in 3 to 5 business days.

Confirmation Options

  • Delivery confirmation (tracking) is included on some international shipments. Further restrictions apply. No additional confirmation options are available on international shipments.

Restrictions

  • There are restrictions for mailing restricted, prohibited, and hazardous materials, including alcohol, cigarettes, and perishable items. Learn more about restrictions.