The Atlantic

Why It's Cheaper to Ship Goods From Beijing Than New Jersey

I run a 12-person company. Trump’s decision to leave the Universal Postal Union could help small businesses like mine.
Source: Mike Blake / Reuters

Last week, President Donald Trump declared his intention to exit a 144-year-old international postal agreement known as the Universal Postal Union. If he follows through, Trump will be helping the American small businesses that so many politicians woo on the campaign trail, only to abandon once in office.

I run a 12-person business in Rahway, New Jersey, called Mighty Mug. We make a patented travel mug that won’t fall over when knocked, which we ship to every state in the country.

Shipping has become almost invisible to the average American consumer; many assume it should be free when making

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