When you’ve got something you need to ship across the pond, you need to know how to get your package there safely. USPS is a great option, offering loads of shipping options from the United States to the United Kingdom.
But how much does it cost to ship things to the UK using USPS? If you have this question and several others, I’ve done all the research you need to know about the matter!
Does USPS Ship To The UK In [currentyear]?
USPS provides several shipping services from the US to the United Kingdom as of [currentyear]. Express services include Global Express Guaranteed and Priority Mail Express International. Priority Mail International and First-Class International Service are the economical options. Also, delivery times range from one business day to 20 business days, with prices ranging from $15.75 to $87.05.
If you still need more information about what to expect from the different shipping options when sending things to the UK, then be sure to keep reading!
Which Shipping Options Does USPS Offer For The UK?
Before shipping to the UK, it’s helpful to know about the different international shipping options available with USPS.
With that, USPS offers four international shipping services:
- Global Express Guaranteed
- Priority Mail Express International
- Priority Mail International
- First-Class Package International Service
Further, here’s what you can expect from each shipping service.
Global Express Guaranteed (GXG)
Global Express Guaranteed is the fastest international shipping service offered by USPS.
That said, packages shipped through this service arrive at their destination in one to three business days.
Also, this service comes with date-certain delivery and a money-back guarantee if your package arrives late.
In addition, Global Express packages come with door-to-door tracking and up to $100 of insurance.
Finally, you’ll receive a free GXG shipping kit with envelopes, labels, and stickers when you purchase this service.
Priority Mail Express International (PMEI)
Priority Mail Express International is another express shipping service offered by USPS.
While not as fast as Global Express, this service will still get your package to the UK in three to five business days.
On top of that, there are actually two ways to send packages to the UK with PMEI; with and without the money-back guarantee.
So, if you choose to mail your package without purchasing the money-back guarantee service, you won’t be able to ask for your money back if your item takes more than five days to arrive.
You will, however, get your money back if your item is lost or damaged.
On the other hand, if you purchase the money-back guarantee, you’re entitled to a refund of your shipping costs if your package arrives late.
Further, PEMI service comes with both tracking and insurance.
That said, this insurance includes up to $100 for non-negotiable document reconstruction and up to $200 for merchandise loss, damage, or missing contents.
Priority Mail International (PMI)
Priority Mail International is USPS’ economy option and provides a reliable and economical way to ship to the UK.
With that, delivery takes six to ten business days and comes with both tracking and insurance (up to $100 for non-negotiable document reconstruction and up to $200 for merchandise loss, damage, or missing contents).
First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS)
If your package is small (less than 4 pounds) and you’re not on a deadline, then First-Class Package International Service is an extremely affordable option for shipping to the UK.
Further, delivery takes one to four weeks and comes with electronic delivery confirmation from USPS.
However, this service doesn’t come with insurance or tracking as part of the purchase price; however, you can purchase them as extra services.
How Long Does USPS Shipping To The UK Take?
With USPS, shipping time depends on which service you select, which include:
- Global Express Guaranteed (one to three business days)
- Priority Mail Express International (three to five business days)
- Priority Mail International (six to ten business days)
- First-Class Package International (11 to 20 business days)
Can I Track My USPS Package To The UK?
Yes, you can track just about any package going to the UK.
That said, tracking is included when you ship via Global Express Guaranteed or Priority Mail Express International.
Also, shipping is included with Priority Mail International, with the exception of Flat Rate Envelopes and Flat Rate Small Boxes.
Additionally, First-Class Package International tracking is available but must be purchased separately.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship To The UK With USPS?
Shipping costs vary depending on the service you select and how much your package weighs. As a guide, I’ve provided the starting costs for each of USPS’ international shipping options:
- Global Express Guaranteed (prices start at $87.05)
- Priority Mail Express International (prices start at $72.50)
- Priority Mail International (prices start at $57.50)
- First-Class Package International (prices start at $15.75)
Another way of estimating your shipping costs is by using USPS’ Price Calculator tool. It’s a helpful tool; however, you’ll need to know the weight and dimensions of your package to use it.
Additionally, for some shipping services, USPS offers flat-rate pricing on select boxes and envelopes.
Who Delivers USPS Packages In The UK?
USPS takes care of packages until they arrive in the UK. After that, packages pass through customs, and the Royal Mail service is in charge of delivering them.
What Items Can’t I Ship To The UK With USPS?
There are several items you are prohibited from shipping to the UK, and while the list below includes some things, it’s not a complete collection of prohibited items.
So, if you have questions or concerns about what you’re sending, check out the UK Customs website.
Further, here are some items you’re prohibited from mailing to the UK:
- Aerosols for any purpose other than medical or toiletry use (spray paint and air fresheners)
- Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% ABV
- Used batteries
- Matches
- Explosives (fireworks or party poppers)
If you are looking to learn more, you can also see our posts on whether or not USPS ships to India, if USPS delivers to South Korea, and also if USPS ships to Vietnam.
Conclusion
USPS provides reliable shipping options to the UK, regardless of your deadline or budget.
Further, all of its international shipping options are trackable and most automatically come with insurance coverage in the case of loss or damage.
