How Many Stamps Do I Need For International Shipping at USPS? (Explained)

Are you planning to send a package or letter overseas using USPS but are unsure about the number of stamps required for international shipping? You are not alone! International shipping is a complex task, and figuring out how many stamps are needed for your package can be difficult.
This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to calculate the number of stamps required for international shipping successfully. So, keep reading to learn more!
How Many Stamps Do I Need for International Shipping at USPS?
If you’re sending a letter or postcard internationally through USPS, and it weighs up to 1 ounce, you only need to affix one Global Forever stamp to cover the postage.
However, if your mailpiece weighs more than 1 ounce, it will be considered flat and will have its own rates based on the destination country.
In this case, you’ll need to use additional stamps to cover the postage cost. The number of additional stamps required will depend on the weight of the mailpiece, the destination country, and the type of mail service used.
How Many Stamps Do I Need for International Letters?
As mentioned above, you will need only one Global Forever stamp for letters and postcards up to 1 ounce in weight.
A Global Forever stamp is a special type of stamp issued by USPS that is valid for mailing a 1-ounce letter or postcard anywhere in the world. It costs a fixed price, which is adjusted periodically to account for fluctuations in international postage rates.
Using Global Forever stamps is an easy and convenient option for international mailing, as it saves you the hassle of having to calculate postage rates for different countries.
You can purchase Global Forever stamps at any USPS store or online. You can also buy a roll of Global Forever stamps if you plan to send out multiple international items. Since Forever stamps do not expire, you can use them anytime.
How Many Stamps Do I Need for International Postcards?
USPS treats postcards just like letters, so only one Global Forever stamp is required to cover the postage.
However, if your postcard weighs more than 1 ounce, you will need to pay the correct postage rate for its weight and destination.
You can determine the exact number of stamps required for mailing a postcard through USPS’s online postage calculator. All you need to do is enter the weight of your item, the destination country, and the type of mail service you want to use.
The calculator will then generate the exact amount of postage needed for you to affix to your postcard.
How Many Stamps Do I Need for International Flats?
The pricing for international flat postage starts at $2.90 for all countries. This means that you’ll need at least $2.90 worth of postage to send your flat to an international destination. So, using two Global Forever stamps, each valued at $1.45, would be enough to cover the postage.
It’s important to note that the pricing for international flats can vary based on weight, dimensions, and destination country. So, you’ll need to refer to the USPS price list for international shipping to determine the exact postage required.
The price list provides detailed information about the postage rates for different types of international mail services, including First-Class Mail International, Priority Mail International, and Global Express Guaranteed.
Once you know the postage rate, you can use the postage price calculator to determine the exact number of stamps required.
Can I Use Domestic Forever Stamps for International Mail?
While it’s possible to use domestic Forever stamps for international mail, purchasing Global Forever stamps or other international postage options may be more cost-effective. These options are specifically designed for international mail and may offer better value for your money.
The value of a domestic Forever stamp is currently set at $0.63. If you plan to mail a letter or postcard weighing up to 1 ounce to an international destination, you’ll need a minimum of $1.45 worth of postage, the current rate for Global Forever stamps.
This means that you’ll need to use at least three domestic Forever stamps to cover the postage for your international mailpiece. This way, you’ll pay an extra $0.44 for postage, which can be avoided using Global Forever stamps instead.
Conclusion
The amount of stamps required for international mailing depends on several factors, such as your item’s weight, size, and destination country.
Typically, one Global Forever stamp is enough to cover the postage for a one-ounce international letter or postcard.
For heavier items, such as international flats, you’ll need more than one Global Forever stamp or use other international postage options.
Your can also use domestic Forever stamps can also be used for international mail, but purchasing Global Forever stamps or other international postage options may be more cost-effective.