About those USPS flat-rate envelopes...
#1
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Join Date: May 2009
Location: Orchard Park, NY (near Buffalo, which is near Niagara Falls)
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We had a USPS sales rep stop by on Tuesday, and I asked her to find out if really-stuffed envelopes are acceptable or not.
And... she researched the issue, and could not find any place where the rules say that the envelope has to be less than a certain thickness to qualify for the flat-rate price.
And you *can* tape over seams, and the flap closure, to reinforce those areas.
Thought those of you who are using these envelopes to ship your materials might like to know what the official word is.
Don't know how to advise you, though, if your own local Post Office is giving you grief about your envelopes. Other than to ask to talk to the PostMaster, armed ahead of time with all the definitions of what a Flat Rate Envelope is, printed off from their own website / Domestic Mail Manual (which is their "bible", so to speak).
It's been my experience that being a polite and knowledgeable customer, it's possible to ask the right questions so that they may reassess their position.
And... she researched the issue, and could not find any place where the rules say that the envelope has to be less than a certain thickness to qualify for the flat-rate price.
And you *can* tape over seams, and the flap closure, to reinforce those areas.
Thought those of you who are using these envelopes to ship your materials might like to know what the official word is.
Don't know how to advise you, though, if your own local Post Office is giving you grief about your envelopes. Other than to ask to talk to the PostMaster, armed ahead of time with all the definitions of what a Flat Rate Envelope is, printed off from their own website / Domestic Mail Manual (which is their "bible", so to speak).
It's been my experience that being a polite and knowledgeable customer, it's possible to ask the right questions so that they may reassess their position.
#4
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Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: North Carolina
Posts: 2,375
From what I've been told the envelope must be able to close of its own accord (Like, you can't cut the flaps and retape them to make it work for you), and you may reinforce the seal with a single strip of tape, as long as it doesn't wrap around to the front.
Now, Flat Rate BOXES also say you may reinforce the tabs and flaps, I've never seen anything about reinforcing the bottom flap on the FRE. Never had one bust, but it *is* a sealed opening, you know?
Now, Flat Rate BOXES also say you may reinforce the tabs and flaps, I've never seen anything about reinforcing the bottom flap on the FRE. Never had one bust, but it *is* a sealed opening, you know?
#5
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Join Date: May 2009
Location: Orchard Park, NY (near Buffalo, which is near Niagara Falls)
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I don't think there is a bottom flap on the FRE... but there are sealed (small) flaps on the sides.
We've had FREs returned to us from abroad (undeliverable, or unclaimed) and have never seen the side flaps give way, though frequently the corners and bottom edges are abraded away so that the package has some openings.
Keep in mind, though that those packages have gone twice the distance they should have!
We've had FREs returned to us from abroad (undeliverable, or unclaimed) and have never seen the side flaps give way, though frequently the corners and bottom edges are abraded away so that the package has some openings.
Keep in mind, though that those packages have gone twice the distance they should have!
#9
Originally Posted by Favorite Fabrics
I don't think there is a bottom flap on the FRE... but there are sealed (small) flaps on the sides.
We've had FREs returned to us from abroad (undeliverable, or unclaimed) and have never seen the side flaps give way, though frequently the corners and bottom edges are abraded away so that the package has some openings.
Keep in mind, though that those packages have gone twice the distance they should have!
We've had FREs returned to us from abroad (undeliverable, or unclaimed) and have never seen the side flaps give way, though frequently the corners and bottom edges are abraded away so that the package has some openings.
Keep in mind, though that those packages have gone twice the distance they should have!
Definition of Priority Lg envelope - 12" high X 15" wide and no thicker than 3/4". your own envelope, not rigid and even thichness, no lumps. Next step is a parcel.(What a deal with the FRE.)
Side flaps on Priority FRE will give if they are exposed to moisture. This will happen with wet weather. It is impossible to shield hampers from rain when moving and not all facilities have covered docks. If the envelope is buldging I recommend plastic envelope/zip bag and tape to reinforce. This link may help - (Retired from the PO) http://www.usps.com/prices/first-class-mail-prices.htm
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