1. What is USPS Media Mail?

USPS Media Mail is a cost-effective shipping service for educational materials, books, sound recordings, and other media. It's often used by schools, libraries, publishers, and others shipping qualifying media materials.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the USPS Media Mail pricing formula:

Where:

• Base rate — $2.80 for the first pound
• Additional rate — $0.53 for each additional pound or fraction thereof
• Maximum weight — 70 pounds

Note: Weight is always rounded up to the next whole pound for calculation purposes.

3. Media Mail Restrictions

Details: Media Mail has specific content restrictions. Only these items qualify:

• Books (at least 8 pages)
• Sound recordings and video recordings
• Printed music and test materials
• Computer-readable media

Advertising is restricted to incidental announcements only.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter package weight in pounds (lbs). The calculator automatically rounds up to the next whole pound for pricing. Maximum weight is 70 lbs.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does Media Mail take to arrive?
A: Delivery time varies but typically takes 2-8 days within the continental U.S. It's not guaranteed and may take longer than Priority Mail.

Q2: Can I include a letter with my Media Mail shipment?
A: Yes, but only incidental personal correspondence. The primary content must be qualifying media.

Q3: Is Media Mail tracked?
A: Basic tracking is included, but it's not as detailed as Priority Mail tracking.

Q4: Can I ship internationally with Media Mail?
A: No, Media Mail is only for domestic shipments within the United States.

Q5: What's the difference between Media Mail and Library Mail?
A: Library Mail has similar rates but is specifically for libraries, schools, and nonprofit organizations.