Difference between Parcel Select and Standard Post?

[Emerald_Door]

I want to offer Parcel Post on an item.  What is the difference between Parcel Select and Standard Post?

[bettyblackbent]

"Standard Post" is when you want to leave your options open and not specify which USPS service you will be using (so you can decide which is best for YOU when you see the buyer's address I presume...for zones close to me, Priority can be cheaper than parcel). I don't think it works with calculated, only flat rate.

[Deleted]

Standard Post (formerly Parcel Post) is primarily intended for single-piece mailings which consist of any mailable matter that is not required to be mailed as First-Class Mail and includes USPS Tracking at no additional charge. It is commonly used for gifts and merchandise. There are no bulk prices for Standard Post.

Standard Post is generally presented at a USPS retail service counter where USPS Tracking service can be initiated.

Above is from USPS website. I think tracking is purchased separately for parcel select. And you have to fill something out in order for the parcel be be forwarded or returned to you. It's not automatic. It's mostly for bulk advertising I believe.

[bettyblackbent]

Learn something new every day!

So they still have the New name (standard) and the Old name (parcel) as choices. Good gravy.

Bulk advertising goes under "Printed Matter", and it's only available by prearrangement with the PO.

[Deleted]

As confusing as they've made it, you'd think eBay had re-named them.

[Emerald_Door]

Thanks, everyone. It looks as if they're the same service. Parcel Select is when you print the postage online. Standard Post is when you pay at the PO. Same things, with two confusing new names!

[Deleted]

You're right. What I was looking at was for Parcel Select Lightweight Parcel, which is even different than plain old parcel select. How much more confusing can they get?

Certain extra services can be used with Standard Mail parcels, Marketing parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels: electronic USPS Tracking, bulk insurance, and return receipt for merchandise. Standard Mail, Standard Mail parcels, Marketing parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels are not forwarded or returned unless you request it with an ancillary service endorsement. Forwarding and return services may result in additional fees or postage.

[bettyblackbent]

I think most of those odd little categories are more for commercial use on a big scale than for even someone who ships as much as we do.