USPS 2016 Rates

via Instagram

As you've likely noticed, USPS shipping rates go up each year.  This year is no different, but the 2016 increase now makes shipping overseas incredibly expensive, with an average increase of 12.8%.  The most significant increase is to USPS Priority Mail options (1-3 day domestic delivery time; 6-10 days for international).  Last year, a small flat-rate box cost $5.25.  This year, the same size box is priced at $6.10.  These are domestic shipping prices for online sellers found here via Etsy.

International prices have gone up even more considerably.  The new 2016 price for a small Priority International flat-rate box is a whopping $30--up almost ten dollars from last year.  As for the First-Class International option, it has gone up an average of $3-$5 per ounce.  A light 2 oz. package now costs $12 to ship internationally (to Canada, it is $9.00).

I've made the difficult decision to adjust my shipping costs and shop policies to reflect this change.  All orders will now automatically ship as USPS First-Class Mail, unless the (more expensive) Priority upgrade is chosen instead.  It's important for me to keep my work and shipping fees affordable, but keeping my shop open is important, too.  Thanks for understanding.

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Updated EC | TIW shipping rate info. from my Policies:

USPS shipping prices have risen sharply this year.  I currently don't offer insurance for international orders.

All packages are shipped via USPS FIRST-CLASS MAIL to your ETSY address.

I offer a shipping upgrade to Priority Mail for faster delivery (USPS estimates 1-3 days for US orders, and 6-10 days for international).  *I am not responsible for lost or stolen packages--or delivery times.*

INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY TIMES:
Depending on Customs, package delivery time is 2-9 weeks.  Buyers are responsible for ALL local Customs and importation fees collected at time of package delivery.

Note: I cannot ship to the Middle East, India, or North Korea--any orders placed from these countries will result in the cancelation of the order.

>> US ADDRESSES:
USPS First-Class Mail with package tracking.  At an additional cost, a Priority Mail upgrade allows for insurance up to $50.00.

>> INTERNATIONAL ADDRESSES:
Shipping is USPS First-Class International with a tracking number.  Priority shipping is now available at an additional cost, but without insurance.