Shipping packages can be confusing with so many carriers and options to choose from. You may have some United States Postal Service (USPS) boxes lying around and need to ship something through FedEx. Is it legal to reuse those boxes and ship them through another carrier? Let’s take a look at whether you can ship a USPS box through FedEx and how to properly do it.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can ship a USPS box through FedEx, but there are some important things to keep in mind. While it is not illegal, both FedEx and USPS recommend using boxes and packaging provided by the shipping carrier you plan to use. Reusing old boxes can cause issues and confusion down the line.
If you do need to reuse a USPS box for a FedEx shipment, be sure to cover up any USPS logos, markings, addresses, barcodes etc. The package should not have any indication it is a USPS box. Use a sturdy FedEx shipping label and enter the correct FedEx tracking number. This will help avoid delivery issues or sending your package back to the old USPS address.
Diving Deeper: Can You Legally Use USPS Boxes for FedEx Shipments?
While the USPS and FedEx do have an agreement to share services and infrastructure, they remain legally separate, privately operated companies.
The USPS does not expressly prohibit customers reusing their branded packaging. However, the boxes are intended only for use with USPS postage and services. The USPS asks that customers use only USPS-provided boxes when sending something through the Postal Service.
Likewise, FedEx accepts packages in any sturdy container as long as they are properly packed and labeled. But FedEx recommends using their own packaging products for FedEx shipments.
So in summary – it is not exactly illegal to reuse a USPS box for FedEx. But it does go against recommendations of both companies and can potentially cause issues. Proceed with caution.
Reasons The USPS & FedEx Prefer You Use Their Own Packaging
There are several good reasons why the USPS and FedEx prefer customers only use their branded packaging for their respective services:
- Avoid Confusion: Using the wrong company’s packaging can cause the package to be misrouted or misdelivered. If a FedEx box ends up at the post office, they may assume it is a USPS shipment.
- Efficiency: Each company designs their packaging specifically for their logistic operations, like optimal box sizes for their trucks, conveyor belts, etc.
- Branding: The companies want packages going through their service to proudly display their logo and reinforce their brand.
- Security: Tamper-proof packaging helps prevent issues like theft or dangerous contents.
- Address Standards: Each company has their own specifications for labeling packages to route properly through their systems.
Rules to Follow When Shipping a USPS Box Through FedEx
Okay, so you’ve decided to reuse that old Priority Mail box from USPS and ship it through FedEx. Here are some important rules to follow:
- Completely cover, mark out, or remove any USPS branding, logos, addresses, barcodes, and other markings. You don’t want your package accidentally routed back to the Post Office.
- Make sure the package does not in any way appear to be a USPS shipment. No mentions of USPS.
- Affix a complete FedEx shipping label with the recipient’s correct address, your return address, and FedEx tracking barcode.
- Use FedEx online tools to purchase the appropriate postage for the shipment weight and dimensions.
- Drop off the package at an authorized FedEx shipping location, retail store, or schedule a FedEx pickup. Do not drop at USPS.
- Enter the FedEx tracking number into your account so you can track the status.
- Inspect the box to ensure it is sturdy enough for shipment without damage. Reinforce if needed.
- Do not reuse old USPS Priority Mail branded tape. Use clear FedEx tape.
- Include a FedEx packing slip. Do not mention USPS anywhere.
Following those guidelines will help your USPS box masquerade smoothly as a FedEx package and avoid any hiccups in transit.
Alternative Shipping Options to Reusing a USPS Box
If you want to avoid the hassle of disguising a USPS box altogether, here are some alternative options:
- Use FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, or FedEx Home Delivery service. Pick from their free selection of new FedEx branded boxes and packaging materials.
- For low-cost FedEx shipping, use FedEx SmartPost which partners with USPS for final delivery. You can use a USPS Priority Mail box.
- Ship small packages under 1 lb with FedEx First Overnight Envelope service. Pick up free FedEx envelopes at a FedEx location.
- For larger items, check if any nearby grocery or retail stores offer FedEx drop-off and packaging.
- Compare FedEx One Rate pricing for your shipment and buy discounted FedEx boxes and supplies on their website.
- Schedule a FedEx pickup and the driver may be able to provide free FedEx branded packaging.
FedEx vs. USPS Packaging: Key Differences
If you are used to using those free USPS Priority Mail boxes, it helps to understand how FedEx packaging differs:
- Types: FedEx offers more box and mailer options for Express, Ground, Home, SmartPost, and Office shipping.
- Sizes: FedEx boxes come in more sizes to accommodate items, from tiny envelopes to extra large boxes.
- Branding: FedEx boxes prominently display the FedEx logo and purple/orange colors.
- Materials: FedEx uses corrugated cardboard, Tyvek envelope material, and poly materials to make their packaging durable.
- Supplies: FedEx supplies like tape, labels, and packing slips are designed specifically for FedEx systems.
- Addresses: FedEx has specific label layouts to ensure proper barcode scanning and delivery routing.
- Postage: Only FedEx shipping rates, tracking codes, and postage can be used with FedEx packaging.
The most important thing is ensuring your package has the proper labeling, tracking, and postage for the carrier service purchased. Mixing FedEx and USPS can spell trouble.
Mistakes to Avoid When Reusing a USPS Box for FedEx
Before dropping off your FedEx shipment in repurposed USPS packaging, double check you haven’t made any of these common mistakes:
- Forgetting to cover up USPS logos, addresses, and barcodes
- Still having USPS Priority Mail tape or markings anywhere
- Not using a FedEx shipping label with proper barcode
- Entering a USPS tracking number instead of FedEx
- Putting an incorrect or incomplete address on the label
- Taking the package to the Post Office instead of FedEx
- Using USPS postage amount instead of FedEx rate
- Not packing the contents safely and securely
- Reusing a damaged or flimsy box unfit for shipping
A quick overview for any correctable issues can help avoid delivery mishaps or extra fees.
FedEx Driver Recommendations When Reusing USPS Boxes
If you do wind up dropping a recycled USPS box at FedEx, it may raise questions from the FedEx driver picking up packages:
- They may warn you it’s preferable to use FedEx packaging. But as long as your package and labeling follows FedEx specifications, they will accept it.
- They may ask to verify the USPS logos and barcodes are fully covered and won’t interfere with FedEx scanners.
- If something seems amiss like conflicting labels or tracking numbers, they may flag it to prevent improper delivery.
- For large reused boxes, they may recommend reinforcing the seams and edges with tape for structural integrity.
- If there are any doubts, they may request you pack the contents in a new FedEx box and create a new label.
- Drivers try to be helpful by catching any labeling issues before packages get lost. Work with them to ensure proper packaging.
The drivers have seen it all when it comes to creative packaging. As long as your box is safe and properly labeled for FedEx, most drivers will accept it. But they may give some constructive advice to avoid problems!
Does FedEx Ever Refuse Packages in USPS Boxes?
In some circumstances, a FedEx shipping location may refuse to accept a package in a USPS box:
- If the USPS branding and markings aren’t adequately covered and obscured. They can’t have two company logos on one box.
- If you try to use a USPS tracking number, postage, or reference USPS anywhere on the box or label.
- If the address and labeling doesn’t follow FedEx specifications and seems ambiguous.
- If the package appears hazardous, damaged, unsealed, or unstable. They can refuse unsafe packages.
- If customers are repeatedly warned but still try to ship USPS boxes without proper FedEx labeling.
To avoid refusal, closely follow the rules outlined earlier for covering USPS markings, using FedEx labels/tracking, and having proper postage. With some extra care preparing your package, you should have no issues.
The Best Practice: Use FedEx Packaging for FedEx Shipments
While reusing USPS boxes for FedEx in a pinch may be allowed, it’s not ideal. To prevent any potential issues, the best practice is:
- Use brand new boxes and packaging from the shipping carrier service purchased.
- Choose the carrier that best fits your needs in terms of cost, speed, etc.
- Follow all of that carrier’s specifications for labeling, postage, tracking codes, markings, drop-off, etc.
Matching your packaging to your carrier provides the most seamless, trouble-free shipping experience. Eliminate confusion by keeping USPS and FedEx separate.
Key Takeaways: Shipping a USPS Box Through FedEx
Reusing old postal boxes for other carriers is convenient but has risks. To safely ship a USPS box through FedEx:
- Completely remove or cover any USPS branding
- Attach a FedEx label with proper tracking barcode
- Pay for FedEx postage rates, don’t mention USPS
- Drop off only at FedEx locations
- Enter the FedEx tracking number
- Use FedEx tape, packing slips, and packaging if possible
- Follow all FedEx requirements and avoid USPS references
- Expect questions from FedEx, but they’ll likely accept if labeled correctly
For a smooth process, use fresh packaging from your chosen carrier. But with some adjustments, you can ship that USPS box through FedEx without too much trouble.
