Sending a USB memory stick through Australia Post

LMagic Mirror on 14/06/2013 - 15:10

Hi guys, what's the best way to send a USB memory stick through Australia Post (within NSW only)?

I need to send a USB stick that's stopped working back to the seller for replacement. I checked AustPost's website and found some possibilities, but not sure if all of them are allowed. The stick itself is normal size at 9mm thick so that's something to consider.

  1. Use a large postage prepaid envelope, which allows for up to 20mm. This costs $1.40. Optional Registered Post ($3.20?) This seems the cheapest, but Aust Post might not allow it.

  2. Use a padded bag for $1.05, plus actual postage (unknown amount). Optional Registered Post ($3.20?)

  3. Use Parcel Post ($8.25). Optional Registered Post ($3.20?) This should be the safest, but it is also over 50% of the original cost of the memory stick.

Thanks for any pointers.

References:
Overview of Postal Charges (PDF): http://auspost.com.au/pdfs/ms11-post-charges-booklet-may13.p…
Parcel Post (PDF): http://auspost.com.au/media/documents/parcels-easyguide-zone…

General Discussion

Comments

  • retiredfeline on 14/06/2013 - 15:23
    +2

    Why would Auspost not allow an envelope if you are under the thickness? Nothing dangerous about a USB stick.

  • infinity89 on 14/06/2013 - 15:28
    +1

    Send it back using Option 1. When you buy stuff from online shops, eg. SD Cards, etc lots will use this option.

    Option 2 will cost you more, as the postage amount will be $1.20 plus the cost of the bag.

    Option 3 is unnecessary given your item is so small and light.

    • infinity89 on 14/06/2013 - 15:29
      +1

      Registered Post is a good idea, depending on who the seller is. If you don't send via registered they could always claim that it did not arrive back in the mail.

  • mskeggs on 14/06/2013 - 15:46

    Auspost classify DVDs and CDs as documents, I think it reasonable to argue the same is true of a USB. Certainly people letter post all sorts of stuff if it fits within the dimensions (I've had cables, heatshrink, a hat! letter posted).
    Since it is such low value to start with, just fold it inside the note to the seller and post it cheap.

  • hurtsville on 14/06/2013 - 16:23
    +2

    I highly suggest you put the USB in a zip lock (stapled to the envelope) if you choose to use the envelope. They use some machine sorter that can shred up the envelope if its too thick or comes in at a bad angle.

    I've had envelopes half shredded returned to me but a USB could easily be lost throughout the process.

  • mdsh on 14/06/2013 - 19:12
    +3

    When sending small, flat items in an envelope, I tape the object between two sheets of cardboard (e.g. cut up cereal box) before putting it in the envelope. As mentioned by hurtsville, USB's can be ripped out of envelopes by the sorting machines.

    If you decide to send it as a parcel and you use your own packaging, it will cost $6.95 instead of $8.25 and will include tracking but not signature on delivery.

  • Pratty on 15/06/2013 - 10:09

    Just buy a tiny little padded bag and put two 60c stamps on it mate. It'll get there.

  • andyman1908 on 15/06/2013 - 17:01

    I've had experience with a similar thing. I had to send a USB modem via Aus Post. They suggested me use the CD mailing box (not sure of correct name) that they sell and said as long as it fits the 20mm hole it'll be classified as a envelope. Got to seller fine in a couple of days. Took two stamps but still much cheaper than the parcel rate they would otherwise charge.

  • Ughhh on 15/06/2013 - 17:15

    Ive sent a faulty USB to America once, I sent it in a normal letter envelope. AustPost knew about it, and I got my replacement from Lexar.

  • Magic Mirror on 16/06/2013 - 07:08

    Thanks for all the comments and advice. I'll use a small padded bag and put it in a standard envelope.

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