How Much Does It Cost to Send a Package?

A Real-World Answer from MAS Mail & Print Center in Rockford, IL

 

“How much does it cost to send a package?” is the most common question we hear at MAS Mail & Print Center in Rockford. The short answer is: it depends. The useful answer is knowing what it depends on and how to avoid paying more than you should.

After shipping thousands of packages locally, across the U.S., and internationally using USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL—all in one place, we’ve seen exactly what raises costs and what quietly saves money.

This article explains shipping costs based on real experience, not carrier fine print.

The Biggest Factors That Decide Shipping Cost

Package Size (Often More Important Than Weight)

This is the most misunderstood part of shipping.

If your package is large, carriers may charge based on dimensional weight, not the actual weight. That means a lightweight item in a big box can cost as much as a much heavier package.

We regularly see customers come in with:

• A 1-lb item in an oversized box

• A price that looks high for “no reason”

The reason is almost always box size.

At our store, the first thing we do is look at whether the item can be packed more efficiently—often reducing the cost immediately.

Weight

Weight still matters, especially once you pass certain thresholds. 

One of the most common packages we ship is:

• Medium box (around 10 × 10 × 8 inches)

• About 5–6 pounds

• Domestic shipping

That size and weight usually has multiple price options, depending on speed and carrier.

Distance (Shipping Zones)

Where it’s going matters.

Shipping within Illinois or nearby states is very different from shipping across the country. The farther the package travels, the more the carrier base rate increases.

Speed

Faster shipping costs more—every time.

Some customers need next-day delivery. Many don’t, but aren’t told they have another option. Choosing standard delivery instead of express can make a noticeable difference in cost.

Carrier Choice

This is where local shipping centers have an advantage.

At MAS Mail & Print Center, we don’t force one carrier. We compare:

• USPS

• UPS

• FedEx

• DHL (especially strong for international shipments)

Different carriers are better for different package types. Seeing the options side-by-side helps customers choose what fits them best.

Real Case Studies from Our Store

Case Study 1: International Documents to Colombia

A customer came in needing to send documents to Colombia. The original estimate they had received elsewhere was extremely high.

The issue wasn’t the destination—it was the packaging.

We repackaged the documents using a carrier-approved international envelope, which:

• Increased security

• Qualified for better international pricing

Result: The total cost dropped by about $50—just by packaging it correctly and choosing the right international service.

Case Study 2: Domestic Christmas Gift

A customer brought in a large box containing a single holiday gift.

The size of the box alone was pushing the package into a higher price bracket.

We switched to a correctly sized box and kept the same delivery timeline.

Result: The customer saved around $20 instantly.

This type of situation happens daily.

Common Mistakes That Increase Shipping Cost

From experience, most people overpay for these reasons:

• Using a box that’s too big

• Assuming flat-rate shipping is always cheaper

• Paying for speed they don’t actually need

• Choosing a carrier out of habit instead of comparison

• Not realizing size can override weight

Our job is to catch these issues before you pay.

Domestic vs. International Shipping

Domestic Shipping

• Usually offers more flexibility

• Pricing is highly influenced by size and distance

• Proper packaging makes the biggest difference

International Shipping

• Heavily affected by country, service, and packaging

• Documents and non-documents are treated very differently

• We frequently ship documents internationally to Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina

Choosing the correct carrier and packaging matters even more internationally.

What About Amazon Returns?

We also handle Amazon returns, and many customers are surprised that return shipping costs can vary depending on label type, packaging, and drop-off requirements.

Having a local shipping expert saves time and confusion—not just money.

Why a Local Shipping Center Can Save You Money

At MAS Mail & Print Center in Rockford, customers benefit from:

• Multiple carriers in one location

• Professional packaging and box resizing

• Honest side-by-side comparisons

• Clear explanations with no guessing

While we do charge for boxes, packaging, and label services when needed, those services often reduce the total shipping cost, not increase it.

The Bottom Line: How Much Does It Cost to Send a Package?

There’s no single price—but there is a correct way to ship.

A properly packed package, in the right box, using the right carrier, can cost significantly less than expected.

The fastest way to know the real cost?
Bring the item in and let us take a look.