Sending parcels across Australia or overseas? Whether you’re mailing a birthday gift, returning an online order, or shipping products for your small business, understanding Australia Post’s parcel rates is key to staying on budget. Let’s break down how pricing works, what factors influence costs, and how you can save money while ensuring your items arrive safely.
Domestic Parcel Rates: Sending Within Australia
Australia Post offers flexible domestic shipping options to suit different needs and budgets:
- Regular Parcel Post:
- Cost: Starts at $10.40 for small parcels (up to 5kg).
- Speed: 2–7 business days, depending on distance (e.g., Sydney to Melbourne vs. Perth to Cairns).
- Best for: Non-urgent items like books, clothes, or care packages.
- Express Post:
- Cost: From $15.30 for same-state deliveries (guaranteed next business day).
- Speed: Next-business-day delivery for metro areas, 2–3 days for regional zones.
- Best for: Urgent documents or last-minute gifts.
- Parcel Post Satchels:
- Cost: Prepaid satchels start at 10.40∗∗(small)upto∗∗10.40∗∗(small)upto∗∗21.90 (extra large).
- Features: Flat-rate pricing regardless of weight (up to 5kg).
- Best for: Small businesses or frequent shippers wanting predictable costs.
International Parcel Rates: Sending Overseas
Sending parcels abroad? Costs vary by destination, weight, and delivery speed:
- International Standard:
- Cost: Starts at 28∗∗fora500gparceltoNewZealand,∗∗28∗∗fora500gparceltoNewZealand,∗∗38 to the USA.
- Speed: 6–10 business days.
- International Express:
- Cost: From $55 for faster delivery (3–7 business days).
- Best for: Time-sensitive items like contracts or gifts.
- Economy Air:
- Cost: Cheaper rates for non-urgent items (e.g., $22 for 500g to the UK).
- Speed: 9–15 business days.
What Affects Parcel Rates?
- Size & Weight: Heavier or bulkier parcels cost more. Always measure your box!
- Destination: Remote areas (domestic or international) often incur higher fees.
- Speed: Faster services like Express Post come at a premium.
- Extras: Adding tracking (+$3.50) or insurance (based on item value) increases the total.
Australia Post’s parcel rates are designed to balance affordability and reliability. By choosing the right service for your needs—and packing smart—you can keep costs down without compromising on delivery quality. Whether you’re sending a letterbox-friendly satchel or a large box overseas, a little planning goes a long way.