parcel post

 That branch of the post office having to do with the collection, transmission, and delivery of parcels{4}. The British Inland Parcel Post was established in 1883. The rates in 1913, dating from 1897, were 3d. for parcels not exceeding one pound and 1d. for each additional pound up to the limit of 10 pounds. A general parcel post was established in the United States by Act of August 24, 1912, which took effect Jan. 1, 1913. At that time, parcels could not exceed 11 pounds in weight nor 72 inches in length and girth combined. Provision is made from insuring parcels, and also for sending parcels C.O.D. The rates of postage vary with the distance. See Zone, below.  [Webster 1913 Suppl.]