How to Send a Package Using USPS Express Mail

If you need to send something fast—like really fast—USPS Express Mail (formally known as Priority Mail Express) is the U.S. Postal Service’s fastest domestic shipping option. It offers overnight to 2-day delivery with guaranteed service, free tracking, and up to $100 in insurance. Whether you’re a business owner, student, or someone mailing important documents, knowing how to send a package using this service can save time, money, and stress.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from preparing your item to tracking it after drop-off.

Step 1: Determine If USPS Express Mail Is Right for You

Before anything else, decide whether you need overnight or next-possible-day delivery. USPS Express Mail is ideal for:

Legal or government documents
Last-minute gifts
Important business orders
Time-sensitive medical items
E-commerce orders requiring fast delivery

If speed, security, and reliability are your priorities, Express Mail through USPS is worth it.

Step 2: Choose Your Packaging

USPS offers free Priority Mail Express boxes and envelopes, which you can pick up at your local post office or order online.

Common packaging types:

Flat Rate Envelope (ideal for documents)
Padded Flat Rate Envelope (great for small items needing cushioning)
Boxes of various sizes (for products and gifts)

Tip: If your item fits in a Flat Rate envelope or box, you don’t need to worry about weight or zone-based pricing—it’s one flat cost.

If you’re using your own packaging, ensure it is durable, weather-resistant, and clearly labeled “Priority Mail Express.”

Step 3: Prepare Your Shipment

Once you’ve chosen your packaging:

Carefully wrap your item to avoid damage during transit.
Place it inside your selected envelope or box.
Seal the package securely using packing tape. Avoid using string or paper wrapping, as USPS may reject it.

Label it neatly with the recipient’s:

Full name
Street address (or PO Box)
City, state, and ZIP code
Contact number (optional, but helpful)

Include a return address to ensure it gets back to you in case of issues.

Step 4: Create and Print Your Label

There are two ways to create a USPS Express Mail label:

Option 1: At the Post Office

Visit your local USPS location.
Fill out a Label 11-B form or ask the staff for help.
A postal worker will weigh your package, confirm the delivery window, and print your label.

Bonus: Online labels sometimes include a small discount compared to in-person purchases.

Step 5: Schedule a Pickup or Drop Off

USPS offers two easy ways to send your Express Mail package:

Schedule a Free Pickup

Visit USPS.com and choose “Schedule a Pickup.”
Your mail carrier will collect the package from your doorstep the next day (or same day if available).

Drop it Off

Go to any USPS retail location.
Look for the “Priority Mail Express” drop box or hand it directly to the clerk.

Tip: Double-check your post office’s Express Mail cutoff time—usually between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m.—to ensure your package gets out that day.

Step 6: Track Your Package

Once your package is on its way, you’ll receive a tracking number—either on your receipt or via email if you used online shipping tools.

Track your package by:

Visiting tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction
Entering your tracking number

You can also sign up for email or text notifications to get status updates automatically.

Step 7: Check for Delivery Confirmation

USPS Express Mail includes:

Proof of delivery
Electronic signature confirmation (if requested)
Guaranteed delivery by 12 p.m. or 3 p.m., depending on location

If your package doesn’t arrive by the promised time, you can request a full refund through USPS’s money-back guarantee.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Experience

Double-check the recipient’s address to avoid delays.
If it’s urgent, verify overnight eligibility by ZIP code at USPS.com.
Use the insurance add-on for high-value items over $100.
Keep a receipt or label copy until the package is delivered.

Final Thoughts

Sending a package with USPS Express Mail is easier than most people think. It’s a reliable, fast, and professional service that’s available 365 days a year. Whether you’re shipping across town or across the country, you can count on USPS to get your item there quickly and safely.

Now that you know the steps—from packaging to tracking—you’re fully equipped to ship with confidence.