International Surface Air Lift® (ISAL®) service provides expedited dispatch and transportation for all types of First–Class Mail International items weighing up to 4 pounds with average delivery times of 7–14 business days. Each ISAL mailing must weigh a minimum of 50 pounds. Prior to leaving the U.S. postal system, ISAL shipments are tendered to an international air carrier, which transports them to the destination country on a “space available” basis. Upon arrival at that overseas location, they are handed over to that country’s postal administration, which treats them as surface mail. ISAL shipments can be mailed to approximately 125 countries and territorial possessions, including Canada and Mexico. Presort and drop ship prices as well as volume pricing are available for commercial customers who meet international customized mail program requirements.
ISAL shipments can be entered at all Postal Service bulk mail acceptance locations.
M–bags that weigh less than 11 pounds may be included in an ISAL mailing, provided that the sender pays the applicable 11–pound postage price. Merchandise items may also be enclosed in an M–bag under certain conditions. See the section on M–bags for the applicable mail entry criteria.
ISAL postage prices are based on a “piece plus pound” structure that consists of per–piece and per–pound charges. Postage prices are based on country price groups. See IMM 293 for additional details about country availability and mail preparation requirements, or consult your local Post Office.
