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How to Ship Clothes - Packing Tips & Cheapest Rates (2026)

The cheapest way to ship clothing. Poly mailer vs box, how to pack, and real shipping rates. Compare USPS, UPS & FedEx.

Last updated - 2 min read

Clothing is one of the cheapest things to ship because it's lightweight and not fragile.

Poly mailer or box?

Poly mailer for most clothing. A t-shirt in a poly mailer weighs about 0.5 lb. The same t-shirt in a box weighs 1-2 lbs. That weight difference is $2-4 in extra shipping cost for no reason.

Use a box whenshipping delicate fabrics that can't be folded, multiple heavy items, or clothing with accessories.

How to pack

Fold neatly. Place in a clear poly bag first to keep it clean and dry. Put in the poly mailer or box. For multiple items, roll instead of fold - compresses better.

What it costs

  • Single item, poly mailer (under 1 lb): USPS Ground Advantage $4-6. Always cheapest at this weight.
  • 2-3 items, poly mailer (1-2 lbs): USPS Ground Advantage $6-9. Still usually cheapest.
  • Multiple items, box (3-5 lbs): USPS $10-14, UPS Ground $12-15, FedEx SmartPost $12-14. Compare all three - cheapest changes by route.
  • Heavy coat or large order (5-10 lbs): UPS Ground $14-20, FedEx Ground $15-22, USPS Priority $18-25. UPS and FedEx beat USPS at this weight.

Save more

Use poly mailers whenever possible. Don't overpack - clothing doesn't need bubble wrap. Compare carriers for anything over 3 lbs.

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On their way

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  • USPS

    Lila Chen

    $7.42

    Ground Advantage®

    In Transit
  • UPS

    Marcus Patel

    $11.18

    Ground®

    Delivered
  • FedEx

    Aiko Tanaka

    $22.91

    Express Saver®

    Label Created