Whether it be merch runs or trades, Legion members are no strangers to the postal systems. While the global postal system differs significantly from country to country, there is a common process that should be taken when shipping merch items out.
Patches and stickers
Stickers are light and thin, and can easily be sent in a letter that is sealed properly (when in doubt, use tape). The same can be used for patches unless they are too thick. Generally, 1/4" (0.64cm) is the thickest that a postal service will accept for a letter. If you have more than 1 or 2 patches, it is recommended to ship as a package and not a letter.
Coins, Dubloons, Pins, and Miscellaneous
Coins, coin-shaped items, lapel pins, and other miscellaneous trinkets should always be shipped in a properly sealed package. Letters are NOT recommended unless it is explicitly stated to the recipient of such so that they can choose whether or not to risk it.
As with patches and letters, anything over 1/4" (.064cm) risks either getting caught in the conveyor belts in the postal offices, or being rejected as a non-machinable item. It is also recommended to tape the sides of the package and use a bubble mailer to avoid paper packages from ripping open during transit
Shirts and Clothing
Shirts and clothing should always be sent in packages. Some postal services (like USPS in the US) offer flatrate box options that can fit several rolled shirts at once to save shipping.
Tracking, Insurance, and Registered Mail
Unless it is not available in your country, it is advisable to ALWAYS price your shipping to include tracking. This will not only offer the buyer/receiver an easy confirmation of shipping, but will also offer a way to submit a claim if the item is lost in transit.
If you are doing a run or trade for costly items, insurance is also recommended, but not required. Always check with the buyer/recipient before including it as it usually adds cost to shipping.
Some countries cover both of these options under registered mail, while countries like the US have them all separate.
Domestic and International Shipping
Shipping within your own country will generally be much cheaper than shipping internationally, but there are options to lower costs.
United States Shipping
Currently, the average cost for domestic shipping within the US is about $4-7 USD for up to a 1lb (16oz/0.5kg) bubble mailer depending on which zones the shipper and receiver are in, and generally includes tracking. That cost jumps up to nearly $20 USD starting cost for international, but also includes tracking.
An option within the US is to use Pirateship. While this is not the only 3rd party company who offers commercial pricing to the public, it is a common and popular one. Both domestic and international costs are significantly cheaper. An account is free to create, and you can request Simple Export Rate options through the chat system to unlock upwards of 40% off international costs.
If you know of any other cost-effective/reliable shipping methods to assist Legion members globally, please notify the LMBOs. at
MBO@501st.com.