Anyone send vinyl records through the mail before?
- Thread starter TC84
- Start date
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Look up USPS Media rates. They are specifically used for media and eduacational items and vinyl records are specifically mentioned. in the explanation.
USPS Media Mail Rates & Rules for 2026
USPS Media Mail in 2026 offers the lowest USPS rates for eligible educational and media items, starting at $4.13 for the first pound, with no zone-based pricing ShipStation+1.Current 2026 Rates
- $4.13 for the first pound (up from $4.47 in 2025) ParcelPath
- $4.66 for 2 lbs
- $5.19 for 3 lbs
- $6.25 for 5 lbs
- $8.90 for 10 lbs
Rates are weight-based only, not dependent on shipping distance ShipStation+1.
Eligible Contents
Media Mail is designed for educational and media materials. Qualifying items include About.usps.com+1:- Books (at least 8 pages, reading matter or scholarly bibliography; blank spaces incidental to text are allowed)
- Printed sheet music (bound or loose sheets)
- Scripts and manuscripts for books, periodicals, and plays
- Sound recordings (vinyl, CDs, etc.)
- Video recordings (DVDs, VHS, etc.)
- Computer-readable media with prerecorded information and accompanying guides/scripts
- Sixteen mm or narrower films
- Printed test materials and educational reference charts
- Loose-leaf pages and binders of medical information for doctors, hospitals, medical schools, and students
What’s Not Eligible
- Blank discs, general-purpose storage devices, interactive video games
- Personal notes, cards, or excessive advertising
- Items not in the above categories (e.g., clothing, food, personal items)
Size & Weight Limits
- Max weight: 70 lbs
- Max dimensions: Combined length + girth ≤ 108 inches Easyship
- Delivery time: 2–10 business days (slower than Priority Mail) ShipStation+1
Inspection & Compliance
- USPS can open any Media Mail package for inspection About.usps.com+1
- If ineligible items are found, the sender may be charged extra postage or the recipient may be billed About.usps.com
- Instructions may accompany eligible items, but personal notes are prohibited Easyship
Pros & Cons
Pros:- Lowest USPS rate for eligible items
- Nationwide coverage
- Free tracking included ParcelPath
- Slower delivery
- No default insurance (can be purchased)
- Narrow list of eligible items
- No weekend delivery Easyship
For full eligibility details, see USPS Notice 121 or the Domestic Mail Manual 173.3.2.
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Check with your local PO. They might already have something for vinyl records if you request sending via media.
I was told about this Media rate a few decades ago by the local PO. I cannot remember why I was asking about it either but I always remembered it all thse years later. I know it is less expensive and takes more time to get delivered.
You also might want to ask some sellers of vinyl on Ebay what they do if the PO doesn't have suitable packages, for records.
I was told about this Media rate a few decades ago by the local PO. I cannot remember why I was asking about it either but I always remembered it all thse years later. I know it is less expensive and takes more time to get delivered.
You also might want to ask some sellers of vinyl on Ebay what they do if the PO doesn't have suitable packages, for records.
Good call. I'm still debating on selling. The ones I'd sell were my Dad's but for some reason he got 2 of some albums... then there's Billy Joel... I have his first 9 albums but can't listen to him anymore... personal reasons.
They're all original. And super clean. Some of my earliest memories are of him cleaning them with one of those record dusters
They're all original. And super clean. Some of my earliest memories are of him cleaning them with one of those record dusters
The few records I've shipped, always media and no problems yet. I've been reusing the cardboard mailers from records I've bought.
There are some good videos on YouTube for making your own mailers and tips for shipping safely.
There are some good videos on YouTube for making your own mailers and tips for shipping safely.
So basically thick cardboard on each side of album taped at the edges?
If interested I would trade for any albums you might want to get rid of.
I'll PM u
Bet I've got a really good reason I can't listen to his An Innocent Man album. Gotta love a good college roommate story
Wouldn't know about that... but I think I can deduce a reason. Uptown Girl is #6 out of the 10 songs.... by that song were you covering your ears with your pillow and covering your head with your sheets???
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