What Is USPS One Balance?

USPS One Balance is a feature offered by ShippingEasy that simplifies the shipping process for e-commerce businesses and individual customers. It provides a single account for use with multiple carriers, including USPS, UPS, and more. This feature is enabled through ShippingEasy’s partnership with Stamps.com. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth explanation of USPS One Balance, its benefits, limitations, and how you can set it up for your shipping needs.

What is USPS One Balance?

USPS One Balance was introduced to streamline the shipping process for users by consolidating multiple carrier accounts into one. Instead of maintaining separate accounts for each carrier, users can manage their shipping funds and purchase labels from multiple carriers using a single One Balance account.

This service is included in all ShippingEasy plans at no additional cost. Once signed up, users can manage their One Balance account through the ShippingEasy platform, which allows them to purchase postage, print shipping labels, and track shipments across multiple carriers.

Benefits of USPS One Balance

USPS One Balance offers several benefits for both businesses and individual customers. These include:

1. Streamlined mail acceptance, verification, and payment processes
2. Reduced paperwork and handling costs
3. Increased operational efficiency
4. Improved access to mailing information and job tracking
5. Enhanced account management capability
6. Online mailing quality and Full Service reporting
7. Informed Visibility, which provides mail tracking data for letters, flats, bundles, handling units, and containers.

Limitations of USPS One Balance

While USPS One Balance offers numerous advantages, there are some limitations and restrictions users should be aware of:

1. Maximum Postage Balance: By default, One Balance accounts have a maximum postage balance limit of $10,000.
2. Service Restrictions: USPS One Balance can be used for various USPS services, but it may not cover all services.
3. Delivery Time: USPS One Balance does not guarantee delivery times for all services.
4. Insurance and Tracking: Some USPS services included in One Balance may have limited insurance coverage and tracking options.
5. Loyalty Program: It is unclear if USPS One Balance users can participate in the USPS Loyalty Program.

Setting Up a USPS One Balance Account

Setting up a USPS One Balance account is straightforward. After signing up for a ShippingEasy account, locate your Account ID in your account settings and email ShippingEasy with your Account ID to request the activation of USPS One Balance.

Once your USPS One Balance account is activated, you can access it by going to the left sidebar of your ShippingEasy account and clicking on the appropriate option.

Integration with Other Platforms

USPS One Balance can be integrated with other platforms and services. Endicia, a USPS partner, is integrated with over 200 partners for e-commerce shipping, including order management, shopping carts, and fulfillment solutions. BigCommerce has also integrated with Endicia to offer real-time USPS quotes and easy label printing from their control panel.

In conclusion, USPS One Balance is a convenient and efficient way to manage your shipping needs across multiple carriers. It offers numerous benefits and can be easily integrated with other platforms and services to streamline your shipping process.