Where do I get a box in which to ship something?

Factual Questions
1

I want to send a package via the USPS. I need a box. Can I get one at the post office (the item is small, but larger than the priority mail boxes; roughly 20x12x5), or is there somewhere else that has them?

I’ve never bought a cardboard box before.

2

The USPS will have flat rate boxes, though I’m not sure on the sizes. The boxes are free and if it fits, it ships for a standard price.
https://shop.usps.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10052&catalogId=10001&categoryId=10000036

Otherwise just go to a store and see if they have any old boxes on their way to the compactor and see if any will fit your needs. I run a produce store and we give people boxes all the time for shipping and moving. I’m sure an office supply store or grocery store would have a bazillion of them as well.

3

Ships USPS priority and the box is free.

4

If it’s 3" and and not 5, then you may get by with one of these:

5

In Southern California the is a chain of stores called Box City that specializes in selling cardboard boxes of all different shapes and sizes. Perhaps there are similar stores round your way.

UPS stores also carry a selection of cardboard boxes. You don’t have to using them to mail stuff via UPS.

6

Walmart sells shipping boxes in a variety of sizes. I have bought then there many times. They are located in the office supply section with other supplies needed for mailing or shipping stuff.

7

Ha, this pack rat has hundreds of boxes in his attic. Too many to find the just right one when you need it. My little jerkwater town has a store that sells boxes, and will pack and arrange pickup by one of several carriers.

8

Although it won’t fit in a Priority Mail box, the post office does sell Ready Post boxes for a nominal fee. I’d say you’re looking at spending about $4 on the box, in addition to postage. Unfortunate the other posters missed the part about it not fitting in a Priority Mail box and still suggesting you look at a Priority Mail box :dubious:

9

After they move, many people get rid of their boxes via Criagslist. One example in your area: http://burlington.craigslist.org/zip/2698562871.html.