Can You Ship Puzzles via Media Mail?
When it comes to shipping puzzles to customers, many businesses turn to the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) Media Mail service. Media Mail is a affordable and reliable way to send copyrighted materials, such as books, CDs, DVDs, and video games, to customers who are at least 28 miles away from the sender. But before you start shipping your puzzles via Media Mail, it’s essential to understand the services’ requirements and limitations.
So, can you ship puzzles using Media Mail?
The Answer: No, you cannot use USPS Media Mail to ship puzzles. According to USPS regulations, Media Mail is only restricted to shipping copyrighted materials such as books, CDs, DVDs, printed music, and video games. Puzzle books or puzzle magazines published by others may be shipped via Media Mail, subject to certain conditions. However, traditional puzzles such as jigsaw puzzles are not considered copyrighted materials and**cannot be shipped via Media Mail.
Why Can’t Jigsaw Puzzles be Shipping via Media Mail?
Jigsaw puzzles are not considered copyrighted materials because, unlike puzzle books or magazines, puzzle manufacturers do not own the intellectual rights to the puzzles themselves. The act of creating a puzzle is considered creativity, and therefore, it does not fall under the copyright regulation. Since jigsaw puzzles are not protected by copyright, they may not be shipped via Media Mail.
What are the Consequences of Shipping Jigsaw Puzzles with Media Mail?
If you ship non-copyrighted materials, punitive fines and penalties from the USPS may apply upon inspection or audit. Additionally:
• Your business mailing permit may be revoked resulting in further restrictions on package shipping.
• You or your business may be subject to legal liabilities for misusing the Media Mail service.
What Affects Shipping Puzzles from a Business Perspective?
Regardless of the shipping method, some factors may impact your business considerations:
• Weight and size of packaging: If your puzzles occupy a large space or are not lightweight, it may be more cost effective to use another shipping method.
• Distance: Media Mail is only advantageous for distances of at least 28 miles. For shorter distances, other modes of shipping may be more efficient.