If it Fits, it Ships! (Except for International, then there is a weight limit)

Sending packages to missionaries serving internationally can be tricky and expensive.  For many of us, the most efficient and affordable way to get something to our missionary is via an USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope.  These are only $6.65 to ship within the US and $33.95 to ship them internationally.

 

When shipping these within the US there is no weight limit.  When you ship them internationally they can weigh no more than 4 pounds. 

They come in a few different varieties, and all ship for the same price internationally, but vary slightly within the US.:

1. The standard Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope.  These are made out of stiff, but flexible cardboard and are available free at most Post Office locations. They are designed to hold 8.5 x 11 documents.  US $6.95, International $33.95

2. The padded Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope.  These are plastic, bubble wrap envelopes and are about the same size as the standard ones above.  They are not usually available at the Post Office and can be ordered for free from USPS.com.  They are flexible and they protect the contents. US $7.20, International $33.95

 

3. The legal size, Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope.  These are made out of stiff, but flexible cardboard and are not usually available at the Post Office.  They can be ordered for free from USPS.com. (click the link and it will take you to the order form on the USPS website.) US $6.95, International $33.95

If you print and pay for the mailing labels online at USPS.com you will get free tracking and a small discount over the price you pay at the counter in the Post Office.  If you are shipping to an address outside of the US you will be directed through filling out the customs form online as well.

 

So, what will fit in one of these envelopes??  All kinds of stuff!  This legal size, flat rate envelope contains: 1 set of twin size sheets, 1 YW personal progress book, 1 YW pendant, 1 CTR ring (cheap distribution center variety), organic fruit snacks, sour belts(Hawaiian candy), post-it note tabs and one hand written letter. All for the low price of $33.95! You just have to watch the weight when shipping international, you can't go over 4lbs. and keep the low price.

I was able to get all of this -

into this -

Here is a nifty trick I found on Pinterest.   I use this, or a modified version of it, every time I send a flat rate envelope package to my missionary. 

When you are shopping for your missionary think flat-ish, and not very breakable.  Here are some ideas for you:

• Artwork (small) for their apartment walls - Like this
  
• Gatorade drink mix packets
• Candy
• A new t-shirt for Pday - like one of these!  

• Seasoning packets like Taco Seasoning, Guacamole, etc.
• Beef Jerky or Slim Jims (or both if you are my kid!)
• A Cute Pillowcase - Like this!
• 
• Colored pencils
• US Postage stamps.  (Letters home through Pouch Mail require a US stamp.)
• Fruit snacks
• Bookmark - Like one of these!
• Inexpensive Jewelry - Like this!
  
   and this!
   and this!
  
• Calendar for the new year
• Mission lapel pin - like this!
  
• Personal care samples - lotion, shampoo, Bio Freeze, etc.
• Hot cocoa packets
• Window cling Christmas or other holiday decorations
• A new tie - like one of these! 
•  
• Priesthood line of authority card
• Paper nativity scene - Click here to download for free!!
•  
• Stationery - post it notes, pens, notebooks - Like these from Stone Mountain Press and No Ordinary Biz!
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• A thumb drive for photos
  
• A Plan of Salvation teaching tool - Like this! 
  
  
  
• A cookbook - Like this! 
  
  
  
• The Ensign
• Cough drops
• Crazy socks - Like these!
  

You will be amazed by how much love you can fit in one of these envelopes!  Whatever gifts you choose, make sure you get them in the mail on time.  Check here for the USPS holiday shipping cut off dates.

Good luck and have fun!