USPS · Customer Interaction and Service

A customer comes to the counter and asks how much it costs to ship a 3-lb package to a state across the country. What information do you need to give them an accurate quote?

Correct answer

The package's weight (which you have), dimensions, origin ZIP, destination ZIP, and which service level they need (Priority, Ground Advantage, etc.)

  1. A Nothing — the price is always the same
  2. B The package's weight (which you have), dimensions, origin ZIP, destination ZIP, and which service level they need (Priority, Ground Advantage, etc.)
  3. C Only the weight
  4. D Only the destination

Why this is the answer

Shipping cost is determined by: weight AND dimensions (both affect dimensional weight pricing for larger packages); origin ZIP (determines distance zone); destination ZIP (determines zone); and service level (Priority Mail 1-3 days, Ground Advantage 2-5 days, Priority Mail Express overnight). You already have weight (3 lbs), but you need the other information to provide an accurate quote. Guessing without the full information could mislead the customer.
Source: USPS 477 VEA, Shipping Quote Information