USPS Credentials

Get API credentials from USPS to display live USPS shipping rates in your checkout.

Important: The legacy USPS Web Tools API was officially retired on January 25, 2026. This guide covers the new USPS REST APIs, which all integrations must now use.

What You Need

A USPS Business Account (you can create one during the process)
A U.S.-based business address
An email address for verification

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Access the Developer Portal

Go to USPS Developer Portal
Click "Sign In" or "Log In"

2. Authenticate with Your USPS Business Account

You will be prompted to log in with your USPS Business Customer Gateway (BCG) credentials
If you don't have a Business Account, you can create one from the login page

3. Create a New App

From the menu bar, click "Apps"
Click "Add App"
Fill in the required details:
- App Name: "RateTell Integration"
- Description: "E-commerce shipping rate calculation"
- Callback URL: Optional, leave blank for server-side apps
Select the API products — at minimum, Rates and Transit Times
Accept the Terms and Conditions
Click "Add App"

4. Get Your Credentials

Select your newly created App from the "Apps" list
Go to the "Credentials" section
You will find:
- Consumer Key (this is your Client ID)
- Consumer Secret (this is your Client Secret)

The old User ID from the legacy Web Tools system is no longer used.

5. Add to RateTell

Log into your RateTell dashboard
Go to Carriers in the sidebar
Click "Connect" on the USPS card
Enter credentials:
- Consumer Key (Client ID): Paste from developer portal
- Consumer Secret: Paste from developer portal
Enter your Origin Address — must include a valid ZIP code
Click "Test Connection"
If successful, click "Save"

Testing Your Setup

Test Mode

USPS provides a testing environment:

Enable Test Mode in RateTell carrier settings
Your production credentials work for both test and live environments — RateTell uses the correct endpoint automatically
Test returns simulated rates and doesn't affect your live shipping

Verify Connection

Click "Test Connection" to confirm your credentials work and your origin address is valid.

Troubleshooting

Authentication Failed: Ensure you are using the new Consumer Key and Consumer Secret from the developer portal, not a legacy User ID. Double-check for typos.

Can't find API Products: The Rates and Transit Times API is typically included in default access. Some advanced APIs may require additional approval.

No Rates Returned: Verify your origin address includes a valid USPS ZIP code and your USPS Business Account is in good standing.

If you have negotiated rates with USPS (e.g., via an Enterprise Payment Account), ensure they are configured in your USPS Business Account. Enable "Use Negotiated Rates" in RateTell carrier settings if applicable.

Next Steps

Need help? Email support@ratetell.com

USPS