Small flat rate box size
The Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Box measures 8-5/8" x 5-3/8" x 1-5/8" on the inside (8-11/16" x 5-7/16" x 1-3/4" outside). In centimeters that is about 21.9 × 13.7 × 4.1 cm. Its volume is about 75 cubic inches.
Small flat rate box price
| Where you buy postage | Price |
|---|---|
| Online label (USPS.com, shipping apps) | $12.95 |
| Post Office counter | $14.65 |
The price is the same to every address in the 50 states, whether it weighs 2 ounces or 70 pounds. Buying the label online saves $1.70 per package. These are the prices in USPS Notice 123, effective October 4, 2026; USPS updates them each January and July, and the packaging itself is free.
Small flat rate box shipping cost
Here is what a parcel of the same size would cost by USPS Ground Advantage (online label) at different weights and distances. Green cells are where the Small Flat Rate Box at $12.95 is cheaper.
| Weight | Ground, zone 2 | Ground, zone 5 | Ground, zone 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 oz | $7.34 | $8.24 | $8.95 |
| 1 lb | $8.08 | $9.29 | $11.22 |
| 2 lb | $8.48 | $10.50 | $13.42 |
| 5 lb | $10.41 | $14.53 | $20.24 |
| 10 lb | $12.91 | $17.81 | $26.39 |
| 20 lb | $18.11 | $26.68 | $42.14 |
Going cross-country (zone 8), the Small Flat Rate Box beats Ground Advantage from about 2 lb. For a nearby address (zone 2) it takes about 20 lb before flat rate wins. The calculator above does this comparison for your exact item and zone.
What fits in a small flat rate box?
Typical things people send in it: a phone, jewelry, a video game, batteries, tools and small heavy parts.
From our presets, these fit: phone (6.5 × 3.5 × 1.5 in), video game (6.75 × 5.25 × 0.5 in).
Too big for it: shoebox (no flat rate option — use Ground Advantage); hoodie (fits the Medium Box (Side-Loading)); 3 books (fits the Medium Box (Top-Loading)); laptop (fits the Medium Box (Side-Loading)).
The item must fit with the flaps closing normally — USPS does not allow taping a flat rate box wider or taller to squeeze more in.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a small flat rate box in 2026?
$12.95 with an online label and $14.65 at the Post Office counter (USPS Notice 123, effective October 4, 2026).
Is there a weight limit for the small flat rate box?
Yes, 70 lb — the same limit as all Priority Mail. Up to that, weight doesn't change the price.
Where can I get a small flat rate box?
Free at any Post Office or ordered free from the USPS online store. You must use the official USPS Flat Rate packaging to get the flat price.
How long does a small flat rate box take to arrive?
It ships as Priority Mail, which USPS schedules for 1–3 business days. Delivery times aren't guaranteed.