Business is booming these days for online entrepreneurs. The percentage of US households shopping online is growing, and international online sales are increasing as well. Emerging companies looking to tap into the growing demand for direct-to-consumer purchasing are eager for name recognition. That's why they're partnering with the trusted brand of the U.S. Postal Service in the form of distinctive co-branded packaging.

Priority Mail co-branded boxes have been featured in national advertising by some of the country's largest direct-to-consumer shippers. The co-branded box with company logo, Web site and messaging - makes great point-of-contact advertising.

One company that is taking advantage of USPS Priority Mail co-branded packaging is QuikDrop, a chain of eBay drop-off stores headquartered in Costa Mesa, California. Starting with one store in August 2003, QuikDrop has grown to 100 stores nationwide and that's just the beginning.

QuikDrop customers love the convenience of selling on eBay through a convenient storefront, says co-founder Jack Reynolds. Before merchandise is accepted by the company, the item is researched on eBay to make sure it will sell for $50 or more. The customer is notified of the status of an auctioned item by e-mail and is paid at the time of sale.

QuikDrop does a huge amount of international shipping, says Reynolds. Forty percent of our bidders are international. Anyone who isn't selling to the international market is leaving money on the table.

QuikDrop also credits USPS Web Tools for helping to build the platform for its business operations. USPS Web Tools can be integrated into the company's Web site, shipping operation or customer service center providing information about USPS rates, shipping labels and more.

 We are very impressed with the quality of the service for both domestic and international shipping, says Reynolds. From the technical support to the packaging supplies to the customer contact staff the Postal Service has really helped us make our business a success.

For more information, visit www.usps.com, e-mail the Postal Service at packageservices@usps.com or visit the USPS Exhibit Booth 918 at the National Postal Forum.