Bob, I just shipped some things myself and found priority mail was $4 more then FedEx!!  This was on a 7lb box from DFW to Long  Island NY.  I did not buy extra from the Post Office.  However, Priority is 2 days compared to 4-5 with FedEx. 

It almost makes my head spin.

Tracking # not included in base price anymore too

I ship in the priority box tubes from the post office they are triangle tubes I remove some dirt package the root mass in gal zip lock bags tape them in place I have been able to get three trees into one large box. Priority three days to texas from NJ tracking included (.70)around $15.00 Boxes are free from post office order them online they drop ship to your door.. Wrap the root mass in damp newspaper this will allow the root ball to stay damp in transit and the plastic bag prevents evaporation. Look into shipping soils as some states will confiscate your package and destroy it. without phytocert from local agricultural department. I am currently being inspected to become a licensed nursery. Alot of information I have been researching for over a year now...

A quick, easy and convenient way to ship Priority Mail packages or extremely urgent shipments, via Express Mail. This dual use shipping box offers the flexibility to use either service with one convenient package. This corrugated box is the perfect size for large drawings, fishing rods and golf clubs.

Inside Dimensions: 37 11/16" x 6 1/8" x 5 1/8" x 5 1/16"
Outside Dimensions: 38 3/16" x 6 9/16" x 5 9/16" x 5 5/16"

Since these are 3-4 month old cuttings I'm really afraid to mess with the soil but I'm open to the experts on this.  Any thoughts?

If you open your own account from UPS or USPS you can save money on shipping and print your labels from home. It's free to set up your account. I do it all the time.