Postage to the USA from the UK
How much it costs to send a letter, large letter or small parcel to the USA, how long it takes and what you need to know about customs.
Letter£3.60
Large letterfrom £4.60
Small parcelfrom £19.50
Typical delivery5-7 days
The USA is the most popular non-European destination from the UK. Letters and cards are straightforward. Goods are more complicated since US import rules changed in 2025, so for parcels check the latest guidance, or use a courier that handles duties for you.
| Size | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Letter | Up to 100g | £3.60 |
| Large Letter | Up to 100g | £4.60 |
| Large Letter | 100g-250g | £8.50 |
| Large Letter | 250g-500g | £12.40 |
| Large Letter | 500g-750g | £19.85 |
| Small Parcel | Up to 250g | £19.50 |
| Small Parcel | 250g-500g | £27.45 |
| Small Parcel | 500g-750g | £31.00 |
| Small Parcel | 750g-1kg | £34.50 |
| Small Parcel | 1kg-1.25kg | £39.60 |
| Small Parcel | 1.25kg-1.5kg | £42.80 approx. |
| Small Parcel | 1.5kg-2kg | £47.90 approx. |
Prices from 5 October 2026, last checked 1 October 2026. Prices marked approx. are our best estimate – confirm with the carrier before paying.
How to address post to the USA
US addresses end with the city, the two-letter state code and the ZIP code on one line, e.g. NEW YORK NY 10001, then USA on the last line.
Things to know about posting to the USA
- USPS delivers Royal Mail items in the USA.
- Rules for sending goods to the USA changed in 2025 and may change again - check Royal Mail's USA page before posting anything other than letters and documents.
- For gifts, include a clear description and value; for goods you've sold, some services now require duties to be paid upfront.
General tips
- Put USA in capitals as the last line of the address.
- For goods, fill in the customs declaration with an accurate description, value and quantity.
- International Standard is not tracked. If the item is valuable, choose a tracked service or a courier.
- Heavier parcels (over 2kg) need a courier or Royal Mail's International Tracked or Parcelforce services.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to send a letter to the USA?
A standard letter up to 100g costs £3.60 with Royal Mail International Standard.
How much is it to post a small parcel to the USA?
A small parcel starts at £19.50 for up to 250g, rising to £34.50 for 1kg with Royal Mail International Standard.
How long does post to the USA take?
Royal Mail aims to deliver International Standard post to the USA in around 5-7 working days, but it is not guaranteed.
Do I need a customs form to send a parcel to the USA?
Yes, if you are sending goods or gifts. You can complete the customs declaration online when you buy postage, or at the Post Office counter. Documents and letters do not need one.