When it comes to sending items through the mail or shipping them to a distant location, the terms “parcel” and “package” are often used interchangeably. However, there are some differences between the two that are worth exploring.
We should define the terms. A parcel is typically used to refer to a larger item that is being sent through the mail or courier service. It can also refer to a collection of items that are being sent together as a single unit. On the other hand, a package is generally used to refer to a smaller item that is being shipped.
So, which of these terms is the “proper” word to use? The truth is, both are correct depending on the context. However, parcel is often used in a more formal setting, such as when sending legal documents or important paperwork. Package, on the other hand, is more commonly used in everyday situations, such as when sending a gift to a friend or family member.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the difference between parcel and package, let’s dive deeper into the specifics of each term.
Define Parcel
A parcel is a container or package that is used to transport goods or items. It is typically larger than a letter or envelope and is often used for shipping or mailing purposes. Parcels can be sent through various means, including postal services, courier companies, and freight carriers. They can come in different shapes and sizes, and may be made of various materials, such as cardboard, plastic, or metal.
Define Package
A package is a box or container that is used to hold and transport goods or items. It is typically smaller than a parcel and is often used for retail or personal purposes. Packages can be made of various materials, such as paper, plastic, or cardboard, and can come in different shapes and sizes. They are commonly used for sending gifts, products purchased online, or other items that need to be protected during transit.
| Parcel | Package |
|---|---|
| Larger in size | Smaller in size |
| Used for shipping or mailing purposes | Used for retail or personal purposes |
| Can be sent through various means, including postal services, courier companies, and freight carriers | Commonly sent through postal services or courier companies |
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to shipping and mailing items, the words “parcel” and “package” are often used interchangeably. However, there are slight differences in their meanings and usage. In this section, we will explore how to properly use these words in a sentence.
How To Use “Parcel” In A Sentence
The word “parcel” typically refers to a small or medium-sized package that is wrapped and ready for shipment. It is often used to describe a package that is being sent through the mail or a courier service. Here are some examples of how to use “parcel” in a sentence:
- I received a parcel in the mail this morning.
- She carefully wrapped the fragile items in the parcel before sending it off.
- The courier delivered the parcel to my doorstep.
As you can see, “parcel” is commonly used to describe a package that is being sent through the mail or courier service. It is also often used to describe a package that is wrapped and ready for shipment.
How To Use “Package” In A Sentence
The word “package” is a more general term that can refer to any type of item that is wrapped or boxed for shipment. It can be used to describe both small and large items, and can be shipped through a variety of methods. Here are some examples of how to use “package” in a sentence:
- The package arrived on my doorstep this morning.
- He carefully packaged the delicate items before sending them off.
- We offer a variety of shipping options for packages of all sizes.
As you can see, “package” is a more general term that can refer to any type of item that is wrapped or boxed for shipment. It can be used to describe both small and large items, and can be shipped through a variety of methods.
More Examples Of Parcel & Package Used In Sentences
In order to fully understand the difference between parcel and package, it’s important to see how they are used in context. Here are some examples of how to use parcel and package in a sentence:
Examples Of Using “Parcel” In A Sentence
- He received a parcel in the mail from his grandmother.
- The courier delivered the parcel to the wrong address.
- She wrapped the fragile vase carefully in bubble wrap before placing it in the parcel.
- The store offers free shipping on parcels over $50.
- The parcel contained a variety of exotic spices from around the world.
- He was surprised to find a small parcel waiting for him on his desk.
- The company sent a parcel of samples to the potential client.
- She was excited to receive a parcel of new books from her favorite author.
- The parcel was lost in transit and never arrived at its destination.
- He carefully inspected the parcel before signing for it.
Examples Of Using “Package” In A Sentence
- The delivery driver left the package on the front porch.
- The company offers a variety of package deals for their products and services.
- She received a package from her sister containing a birthday present.
- The package was damaged during shipping and had to be returned.
- He carefully wrapped the fragile item in bubble wrap before placing it in the package.
- The package contained all the necessary components for assembling the furniture.
- The store offers a variety of package options for shipping, including overnight and ground.
- She was surprised to find a small package waiting for her when she returned home.
- The package was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
- He signed for the package and brought it inside to open.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to shipping items, the terms “parcel” and “package” are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between the two that are important to understand to avoid making common mistakes.
Using Parcel And Package Interchangeably
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “parcel” and “package” interchangeably. While they may seem like synonyms, there are actually some subtle differences between the two terms.
A parcel is typically used to refer to a shipment that is smaller in size and weight, often sent through a postal service. On the other hand, a package is generally used to refer to a larger shipment that is sent through a courier or shipping company.
Using these terms interchangeably can lead to confusion and potentially incorrect shipping methods, which can result in delays or even lost packages.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
To avoid making these common mistakes, it’s important to understand the differences between parcel and package and use them appropriately. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Consider the size and weight of your shipment when choosing between parcel and package
- If you’re sending a smaller item through a postal service, use the term “parcel”
- If you’re sending a larger item through a courier or shipping company, use the term “package”
- Double-check your shipping labels and forms to ensure you’re using the correct terminology
By following these tips and understanding the differences between parcel and package, you can ensure that your shipments are delivered on time and without any issues.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words parcel and package, context can play a significant role in determining which word to use. Depending on the situation, one word may be more appropriate than the other. Let’s explore some examples of different contexts and how the choice between parcel and package might change.
Domestic Shipping
When shipping items within a country, the choice between parcel and package is often a matter of personal preference or regional dialect. In the United States, for example, both words are commonly used interchangeably. However, in the United Kingdom, parcel is the preferred term for smaller items, while package is reserved for larger or more complex shipments.
International Shipping
When shipping items across international borders, the choice between parcel and package can have legal implications. The term parcel is often used to describe smaller, less valuable items that can be sent through the postal system. Packages, on the other hand, are typically larger and more valuable, and may require additional customs documentation or insurance.
E-commerce
In the world of e-commerce, the choice between parcel and package can depend on the specific platform or marketplace being used. For example, Amazon uses the term package to describe items that are shipped directly from their warehouses, while items shipped by third-party sellers are referred to as parcels. Similarly, eBay uses the term package to describe items shipped by large retailers, while items shipped by individuals or small businesses are referred to as parcels.
Business Vs Personal Use
Whether you choose parcel or package can also depend on whether you are shipping items for personal or business use. In a business setting, package may be the preferred term for larger or more valuable shipments, as it can imply a higher level of professionalism and care. For personal use, parcel may be a more casual and friendly term that better reflects the nature of the shipment.
Overall, the choice between parcel and package can depend on a variety of factors, including the size and value of the shipment, the shipping destination, and the specific context in which the words are being used. By understanding these nuances, you can choose the term that best fits your needs and helps you communicate more effectively with others.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the terms parcel and package are often used interchangeably, there are some exceptions where the rules for using them might not apply. Here are some cases where the distinction between parcel and package might not be clear:
1. International Shipping
When shipping internationally, the terms parcel and package might be used differently than in domestic shipping. In some countries, parcel might refer to a small package that is shipped by air mail, while package might refer to a larger shipment that is sent by sea.
For example, in the United Kingdom, a parcel is typically used to refer to a small shipment that is sent by air mail, while a package is used to refer to a larger shipment that is sent by sea. In the United States, however, the terms parcel and package are used interchangeably regardless of the shipping method.
2. Legal Documents
When it comes to legal documents, the terms parcel and package might be used differently depending on the context. For example, in the United States, a parcel might refer to a shipment of legal documents that is sent by a courier service, while a package might refer to a shipment of legal documents that is sent by a regular mail service.
However, in the United Kingdom, the terms parcel and package might be used interchangeably when referring to legal documents, regardless of the shipping method.
3. Fragile Items
When shipping fragile items, the terms parcel and package might be used differently depending on the level of protection required. For example, a parcel might refer to a shipment of fragile items that is wrapped in bubble wrap and shipped in a padded envelope, while a package might refer to a shipment of fragile items that is shipped in a sturdy box with extra padding.
However, in some cases, the terms parcel and package might be used interchangeably when referring to fragile items, depending on the shipping method and the level of protection required.
While the rules for using parcel and package might seem straightforward, there are some exceptions where the distinction between the two might not be clear. When shipping internationally, dealing with legal documents, or shipping fragile items, it’s important to understand the context and usage of these terms in order to avoid confusion and ensure that your shipment arrives safely and securely.
Practice Exercises
Now that we’ve discussed the differences between parcel and package, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test with some practice exercises. These exercises will help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences.
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word (parcel or package) to fill in the blank in each of the following sentences:
- I received a __________ in the mail from my grandmother.
- Can you help me carry this __________ to the car?
- The post office lost my __________ in transit.
- She wrapped the __________ in brown paper and tied it with string.
- The delivery driver left the __________ on the front porch.
Answer Key:
- parcel
- package
- package
- parcel
- package
Exercise 2: Identify The Correct Word
Read each sentence and identify whether parcel or package is the correct word to use:
| Sentence | Correct Word |
|---|---|
| The post office lost my __________ in transit. | package |
| She wrapped the __________ in brown paper and tied it with string. | parcel |
| Can you help me carry this __________ to the car? | package |
| The delivery driver left the __________ on the front porch. | package |
| I received a __________ in the mail from my grandmother. | parcel |
Exercise 3: Write Your Own Sentences
Write three sentences using parcel and three sentences using package. Make sure to use each word correctly.
Answer Key:
- Parcel: I need to send a parcel to my friend in Australia.
- Parcel: The postman delivered a parcel to my neighbor’s house by mistake.
- Parcel: I wrapped the antique vase carefully in bubble wrap and placed it in a parcel.
- Package: The delivery driver left the package on my doorstep.
- Package: Can you pick up a package for me from the post office?
- Package: She received a package from her parents for her birthday.
Conclusion
After delving into the differences between parcels and packages, it is clear that these two terms are not interchangeable. A parcel is a specific type of package that is typically larger in size and used for shipping items, while a package can refer to any type of container used for transporting goods or items.
It is important to use these terms correctly to avoid confusion and ensure clear communication in various settings, whether it be in a business or personal context. By understanding the nuances of language use, we can improve our writing and speaking skills and convey our messages more effectively.
Key Takeaways
- A parcel is a specific type of package used for shipping items, while a package can refer to any type of container used for transporting goods or items.
- The terms parcel and package are not interchangeable.
- Using language correctly can improve communication and avoid confusion.
By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, we can enhance our writing and speaking skills and effectively convey our messages to others.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.