01/28/2026

Package Dimensional Concerns

Source: Mailers Hub, January 26, 2o26

Dimensional Concerns

The Postal Service’s proposed rule to require dimensional information about small packages continues to raise concerns among shippers. Under the USPS proposal (published in the January 12 issue of Mailers Hub News), the agency would

“…expand the current standard in the Domestic Mail Manual by requiring mailers to always include accurate dimensions (length, width, and height) for parcels included in a manifest. Dimensions would not be required for Flat Rate priced pieces or USPS Returns pieces. Failure to comply with the expanded requirement, would continue to subject the parcel to the Dimension Noncompliance Fee. This proposal would also continue to only apply to commercial Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select, products. The Postal Service is proposing to implement this change effective July 12, 2026.”

Neither in the proposed rule or elsewhere has the Postal Service explained the purpose of its proposal or how the dimensional information would be used. This ambiguity has fueled industry frustration that shipping software must be modified, tested, distributed, and installed in a relatively short period, all to produce information for no better reason than because the USPS said it wants it. For example, as reported January 20 by Freight Waves, the USPS proposal

“is raising concerns that major shippers and small online sellers could be subject to non-compliance penalties, especially for non-standard parcels that are difficult to measure. …

“Smaller packages are currently charged by weight. The agency is not proposing to implement cubic volume charges on small pieces, but the data request raises questions for businesses about future intentions. And non-compliance fees could be another way to raise revenue. …

“Mailers and e-commerce shippers say there is a lot of uncertainty about what the Postal Service is trying to accomplish. Outstanding questions include what type of reconciliation process will be in place if the source of any inaccuracy is postal equipment itself. …

“A major concern is whether the proposed rule applies to goods in poly bags – polyethylene plastic bags that are lightweight, durable and cheaper to ship, but also shapeless. …”

Comments on the USPS proposed rule are due February 9, and it’s likely that shippers will take the opportunity to express their concerns, ask for more specifics about the requirements, and explore the reasons by the Postal Service is seeking expanded dimensional information. How the USPS will respond remains to be seen.