How to Send Priority Mail International (USPS Guide 2025)
Quick Answer: Priority Mail International
- Cost: $28.50+ (varies by destination and size)
- Delivery Time: 6-10 business days (not guaranteed)
- Weight Limit: Up to 70 lbs for weight-based shipments (flat rate boxes have 4–20 lb limits)
- Tracking: Included
- Insurance: $100 for documents, $200 for merchandise included (more available; limits vary by country)
Priority Mail International (PMI) is one of USPS's primary international shipping services, offering faster delivery, tracking, and insurance for packages and documents sent overseas. Whether you are shipping products to international customers, sending important documents abroad, or mailing gifts to family overseas, this guide covers everything you need to know about rates, customs forms, flat rate options, delivery times, and how to ship Priority Mail International.
In This Guide
What is Priority Mail International?
Priority Mail International is USPS's expedited international mail service that offers:
- Faster delivery than First Class Mail International (6-10 business days vs 7-21)
- Tracking included at no extra cost
- Insurance: $100 for documents, $200 for merchandise included
- Flat rate box options for predictable pricing
- Higher weight limits up to 70 lbs
- Delivery to about 180 countries
PMI is ideal for shipping packages, valuable documents, merchandise, and anything that needs tracking and insurance protection.
Priority Mail International Rates (2025)
Priority Mail International rates depend on the destination country (organized into price groups), package weight, and dimensions. USPS divides countries into multiple price groups.
Flat Rate Box Prices (2025)
Sample 2025 retail prices (USPS rates change regularly; always confirm with the USPS International Price Calculator). Flat rate boxes have weight limits of 4 lbs (small) or 20 lbs (medium/large):
| Box Size | Canada | Mexico | Other Countries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Flat Rate Box | $28.50 | $33.00 | $42.00-$50.00 |
| Medium Flat Rate Box | $53.00 | $58.00 | $72.00-$92.00 |
| Large Flat Rate Box | $75.00 | $82.00 | $100.00-$130.00 |
Weight-Based Pricing
For packages that do not fit in flat rate boxes, prices are calculated based on weight and destination. Sample rates for a 2 lb package:
| Destination | 2 lb Package |
|---|---|
| Canada | $35-$45 |
| Mexico | $40-$50 |
| UK, Germany, France | $50-$65 |
| Japan, Australia | $55-$70 |
Get Exact Rates
Use the USPS International Price Calculator at usps.com for exact pricing based on your specific package dimensions, weight, and destination country.
Priority Mail International Flat Rate Boxes
USPS offers free flat rate boxes that you can pick up at any post office or order online. Flat rate boxes are ideal when your package is heavy but compact.
Box Dimensions
| Box Type | Dimensions | Max Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small Flat Rate Box | 8 5/8" x 5 3/8" x 1 5/8" | 4 lbs |
| Medium Flat Rate Box (1) | 11" x 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" | 20 lbs |
| Medium Flat Rate Box (2) | 13 5/8" x 11 7/8" x 3 3/8" | 20 lbs |
| Large Flat Rate Box | 12" x 12" x 5 1/2" | 20 lbs |
Flat Rate Tip
Flat rate is best for heavy, compact items. If your package is light and bulky, weight-based pricing may be cheaper. Always compare both options before shipping.
Priority Mail International Delivery Times
Priority Mail International is faster than First Class International but delivery times are estimates, not guarantees. Typical delivery times:
| Region | Typical Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| Canada | 6-10 business days |
| Mexico | 6-10 business days |
| Western Europe | 6-10 business days |
| Eastern Europe | 8-14 business days |
| Asia (Japan, Korea) | 6-10 business days |
| China, Southeast Asia | 8-14 business days |
| Australia, New Zealand | 6-10 business days |
| South America | 8-14 business days |
| Africa, Middle East | 10-21 business days |
Important
Customs processing in the destination country can add significant delays. For guaranteed delivery dates, use Priority Mail Express International (available to select countries).
Tracking and Insurance
Tracking
Priority Mail International includes tracking at no extra cost. You will receive:
- Tracking number starting with the letter sequence (e.g., EA, EB, EC)
- Updates when package leaves the US
- Updates when package arrives in destination country
- Delivery confirmation (availability varies by country)
Track your package at USPS.com or through The Letter Pilot dashboard. For more details, see How USPS International Tracking Works.
Insurance
Priority Mail International includes:
- $100 included insurance for documents
- $200 included insurance for merchandise
- Additional insurance available for purchase (limits vary by country)
- File claims at USPS.com if package is lost or damaged
- Keep all receipts and proof of value for claims
Customs Forms Required
All Priority Mail International packages require customs forms. USPS uses electronic customs forms that you complete online or at the post office.
Which Form to Use
- PS Form 2976-A: Used for most Priority Mail International parcels (the detailed customs form). Most commonly completed electronically through USPS Click-N-Ship, which generates a pre-filled label.
- You can also complete the form at the post office if needed
What to Declare
- Detailed description of each item
- Quantity of each item
- Value in US dollars
- Country of origin for each item
- Weight of each item
- Harmonized tariff code (optional but helpful)
For documents only, see our guide: How to Declare Documents on USPS Customs Forms.
How to Send Priority Mail International: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Get Packaging
- Use Priority Mail International flat rate boxes (free from USPS)
- Or use your own packaging (calculate weight-based rate)
- Ensure packaging is sturdy for international transit
Step 2: Pack Your Items
- Use adequate cushioning material
- Seal all seams with packing tape
- Do not use string, twine, or excessive tape
- Include a packing list inside
Step 3: Create Shipping Label Online (Recommended)
- Go to USPS Click-N-Ship (usps.com)
- Enter destination address and package details
- Complete customs form electronically
- Pay and print label
- Attach label to package
Step 4: Address Format
RECIPIENT NAME
123 STREET ADDRESS
CITY, POSTAL CODE
COUNTRY NAME (IN ENGLISH)
Step 5: Ship Your Package
- Post office: Bring to counter for acceptance (required for customs forms)
- Scheduled pickup: Request free carrier pickup through USPS.com
- Drop-off locations: Some packages can be dropped at USPS collection points
Priority Mail vs Priority Mail Express International
| Feature | Priority Mail Intl | Priority Mail Express Intl |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $28.50+ | $55.00+ |
| Delivery Time | 6-10 business days | 3-5 business days |
| Guaranteed | No | Yes (money-back) |
| Tracking | Included | Included (enhanced) |
| Insurance | $100 docs / $200 merch | $200 included |
| Signature | Varies by country | Required |
| Best For | Regular packages, cost-conscious | Urgent, time-critical packages |
Country Restrictions
Not all countries accept Priority Mail International for all items. Common restrictions include:
- Some countries have weight limits lower than 70 lbs
- Flat rate boxes may not be available to all destinations
- Certain items are prohibited in specific countries
- Some countries may have suspended services temporarily
Check country-specific restrictions at usps.com before shipping. See also: What You Cannot Mail Internationally.
Ship International Packages with Tracking
Need to ship important documents internationally with tracking? The Letter Pilot handles printing, packaging, customs forms, and shipping with full tracking—starting at $4.99.
Ship Internationally OnlineFAQs
How much does Priority Mail International cost?
Priority Mail International starts at approximately $28.50 for a small flat rate box to Canada. Rates vary by destination country, package size, and weight. Large flat rate boxes can cost $100+ to distant countries.
How long does Priority Mail International take?
Priority Mail International typically takes 6-10 business days for delivery to most countries. Canada and Mexico are often faster (6-8 days), while remote destinations may take longer. Delivery times are not guaranteed.
Does Priority Mail International include tracking?
Yes, Priority Mail International includes tracking at no extra cost. You can track your package on USPS.com from the US through delivery in the destination country (tracking availability varies by country).
Is Priority Mail International insured?
Yes, Priority Mail International includes $100 of insurance for documents and up to $200 for merchandise at no extra charge. Additional insurance is available for purchase (limits vary by country).
What is the weight limit for Priority Mail International?
The maximum weight for Priority Mail International is 70 lbs. However, some countries have lower weight limits. Check country-specific limits on USPS.com.
Can I use my own box for Priority Mail International?
Yes, you can use your own packaging. Rates are calculated based on weight and dimensions. Flat rate boxes are free from USPS and offer fixed pricing regardless of weight.
Do I need a customs form for Priority Mail International?
Yes, all Priority Mail International packages require a customs form (PS Form 2976-A). You can complete this electronically through USPS Click-N-Ship or at the post office.
Related Guides
- How to Send First Class Mail International
- How USPS International Tracking Works
- USPS International Delivery Times Explained
- What You Cannot Mail Internationally
- How to Declare Documents on Customs Forms
- Which USPS Customs Form Do You Need?
Tags: priority mail international, USPS international shipping, international flat rate, ship package overseas, PMI, international tracking, usps international package