USPS to Fine Businesses for Guessing Package Sizes Starting July
Published Date: 1/8/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Starting July 12, 2026, businesses sending Priority Mail and similar services must include exact parcel dimensions (length, width, height) in their shipping manifests—no more guessing! Flat Rate and USPS Returns are off the hook. If you don’t comply, you’ll face a Dimension Noncompliance Fee, so it’s time to measure up and avoid extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory parcel dimensions on manifests
Starting July 12, 2026, businesses that send commercial Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, or Parcel Select must include each parcel's exact dimensions (length, width, height) in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation. This expands the current rule, which only required dimensions when a parcel exceeded 1 cubic foot or 22 inches in length. Flat Rate priced pieces and USPS Returns pieces are exempt.
Dimension noncompliance fee applies more broadly
If a mailer omits or provides inaccurate parcel dimensions (length, width, height) or omits the required characteristics extra service code (ESC) in the manifest, the parcel will be assessed the Dimension Noncompliance Fee (see Notice 123--Price List). This enforcement applies for the same commercial products and takes effect July 12, 2026; Flat Rate and USPS Returns pieces remain excluded from this fee.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
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2026-09873 — International Product Change-Global Expedited Package Services-Non-Published Rates
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2026-08777 — Product Change-Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage Negotiated Service Agreements, Priority Mail Negotiated Service Agreements
The Postal Service is updating its Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage deals by adding new shipping contracts to its special negotiated service list. This means businesses using these services might see new options or pricing changes starting soon. The changes were officially filed in late April 2026 and announced in early May, so keep an eye out if you ship with USPS!
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