new size flat rate box

[sewcarolyn]

http://www.usps.com/prices/priority-mail-prices.htm
did you know that there is now a flat rate box that is $4.95 to send anywhere The size is small 8-5/8" x 5-3/8" x 1-5/8 but I know I will be able to get the charms for the candy swap in it easily, and my houses for the swap and even my blocks for the Calendar swap should fit (although I am sure the Return for this swap needs an envelope). Sometimes this will be a nice alternative to the flat rate envelopes since sometimes I am concerned about the envelope tearing. I know I will have to cram my return envelope in it but I think it might work...or perhaps a swap hostesses could order them and have us supply the postage and a self addressed label. They are free to order. this would have worked great for the noodle swap I did last summer.
Just a thought.

[apolta]

Carolyn... don't send an envelope for your return blocks to me... I have them all already for everyone! The tyvek ones are terrific because they are waterproof and light... and the postage should be about the same!

Cheers!
-Alina-

[sewcarolyn]

Thanks for the reminder Alina...or you could hold mine hostage and make me drive to QIAD to collect them that would cost about the same as postage in gas but would help stimulate the economy at QIAD with what I would buy there

[apolta]

yeah I can hold yours... Just let me know!!! We would love to see you again! Rosebud is coming out the first half of February. Hoping to set up a meet!

Hugs!
-Alina-

[gmaann]

Here's an FYI. I looked on www.usps.com yesterday to find out the postage rate for the Priority flat rate box that is about 11" x 13" x 3" - in order to mail a quilted item to a friend. It was $10.35. When I got to the P.O. today, I could not find those Priority boxes (that are free), so I put it in a large (Tyvec) Priority envelope (also free) instead. The postage was $4.95 - even with insurance and delivery confirmation it was far less than $10.35, and I feel pretty confident that the item will be just fine - I had already put it in a Zip-Lock bag. (As I was standing in line, after I had already sealed the envelope, I looked up and saw the sample boxes, numbered, on a shelf above the workers' heads. I guess you decide which one you need and tell them the number and they get it for you.)

[BamaGirl]

Good to know, Carolyn! I'm always worried about the envelopes coming unglued too, so a box would be much safer! You don't have to send a return box to me for the candy/cookie swap either, if you haven't already got it stamped-- I can just get the box at the post office, I'm sure... Whichever you'd rather do is fine!

Gwen

[sewcarolyn]

gmaann you are right at times it is less to ship without the Flat Rat. At my po they will often ask if it could be sent another way less expensive. The Tyvec won't rip and if you are mailing something light weight or not too far of a distance they are great.

[ollie1shoe]

what are the tyvek envelopes?

[apolta]

Tyvek is a nonwoven material that is water resistant and tear proof... the USPS offers the envelopes free of charge! They are great for swaps!
http://www2.dupont.com/Tyvek_Envelopes/ ... efits.html

Cheers!
-Alina-