Buying stamps, tracking and other shipping concerns

[thesoulyearns]

Thanks in advance for answers to these.

1. Can we buy stamps and put them on a parcel ourselves and if so, where do we buy them and how do we find out the exact number of stamps/cost needed per parcel?

2. Tracking is included for Reg post and C&S. I used to be able to add it as an added extra onto a regular parcel/letter for about $1 but apparently that is not an option anymore. Can anyone confirm that tracking for an extra $1-$1.50 is not an option anymore?

[digital*ghost]

I don't know about the $1.50 tracking, but it's easy enough to put stamps on your own parcels if the weight is less than 500 grams, since it's a flat $6.60 charge (eg 11 x 60c stamps, or any combination that adds up to $6.60).

For parcels over 500 grams it gets a bit more complicated, as rates vary according to destination and size of the parcel (which may be cubed rather than charged by weight), so I would always take those to the PO unless sending via C&S.

I think you can use old stamps as long as the total value placed on the package adds up to the current price, and there are a few people that sell them on eBay.

[*sparklz*]

1 Go to the AP site and find out the dimensions and weight for Aust wide postage to know what denomination stamps to purchase from your post office.

2 The option to add $1 for signature required on C&S is still there.

[aj111003]

Can't help you with the stamps Soul. But in relation to the tracking, I actually called my local post office last week and they confirmed that I could add tracking to parcels for $1.55. You can do this via C&S or it can be done when you pay over the counter at the post office.  

[thesoulyearns]

Thanks for your replies.

[thesoulyearns]

Can't help you with the stamps Soul. But in relation to the tracking, I actually called my local post office last week and they confirmed that I could add tracking to parcels for $1.55. You can do this via C&S or it can be done when you pay over the counter at the post office.  

Very interesting and thanks for answering. I may have been confused as far as tracking for large letters (which is what I was sending when asking) and tracking for pacels. aj111003, was the parcel that could have tracking added, over or under 500g?

Looking at the AP website, it states:

Tracking is available for regular large parcels that are lodged over the counter at an Australia Post retail outlet. The service is available on all domestic regular parcels over 500gms.

Also regarding tracking on Reg post, it states:

Registered Post is not specified as a trackable service as there is no requirement for these items to be scanned throughout the delivery process.This allows us to keep the cost payable for this secure service to a minimum. Although we do not provide you with any consistent scan events, we will show you any scan events if and when they are obtained on our online tracking tool.

[aj111003]

Yes I was referring to parcels over 500g.