Category Archives: USPS Services

Does USPS First Class Mail Include Tracking? Your Essential Guide (Updated 2026)

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Most First-Class Mail does not automatically include tracking. The United States Postal Service handles over 129 billion pieces of mail annually, but standard letters, postcards, and flats sent through First-Class Mail cannot be tracked without purchasing additional services.

First-Class Package Service breaks this pattern. These packages automatically include free tracking when you ship them… and this is a distinction that confuses many customers. The difference comes down to what you’re sending: documents and plain letters get no tracking, packages get tracking included.

The difference exists for practical reasons. USPS processing machines cannot capture barcode information from standard letters and postcards. The sheer volume makes individual tracking impractical without significantly raising costs. However, First-Class Mail does provide other built-in benefits like mail forwarding and automatic return-to-sender for undeliverable items.

Letters do, however, offer a paid add-on service for tracking. We’ll explain which First-Class Mail services offer tracking, what options you have, and how to add tracking when you need it. This knowledge will help you pick the right service for your documents or small packages.

Does USPS First-Class Mail Include Tracking?

No – standard First-Class Mail doesn’t include tracking by default. This rule applies to postcards, letters, and flats sent through this service.

The USPS machines that process these items can’t capture barcode information. The USPS processed more than 50 million First-Class Mail items annually. Adding tracking to each piece would drive up costs substantially.

First-Class Package Service operates differently. Both retail and commercial packages include free tracking without additional purchases. Your receipt will show a tracking number at the bottom when you ship a First-Class package.

Several add-on services can provide tracking for letters and flats:

  • Certified Mail
  • Registered Mail
  • Return Receipt
  • Signature Confirmation

These services attach barcodes that enable scanning throughout the postal system. They provide proof of mailing and electronic confirmation when your item reaches its destination. The cost varies by service, but each offers a way to monitor delivery status for items that normally cannot be tracked.

OK, But Why Does My Mail Have All These Barcodes Printed On It?

Those barcodes and scan lines are usually automation marks that help USPS sort and route mail faster—not full tracking for your letter.

The big one is the Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) (or an older POSTNET-style code) that encodes the destination ZIP+4 and delivery point so high-speed sorting equipment can spray, read, and re-sort pieces with fewer human touches. USPS and high-volume mailers may also print extra ID tags (like Mailer IDs, sequence codes, or service codes) that help with address correction, automation discounts, and internal processing. So even though you’re seeing scans and barcodes, standard First-Class letters still typically don’t generate the step-by-step “Where is it now?” tracking you get with packages—those marks are mainly for sorting efficiency and (sometimes) limited processing visibility like Informed Delivery, not end-to-end tracking.

What is USPS First-Class Mail and What Does It Include?

First-Class Mail serves as the standard mailing option for most Americans. Starting at 78 cents for letters, this service handles everyday correspondence, bills, and lightweight packages across the country.

The service accommodates diverse mail types with specific weight limits. Letters can weigh up to 3.5 ounces, while large envelopes (flats) handle up to 13 ounces, and parcels accept items not exceeding 13 ounces. Mail that exceeds these weight restrictions automatically moves to Priority Mail classification.

Delivery typically takes 1-5 business days, though the USPS provides no delivery guarantee for this service level. Built-in features include mail forwarding and return services at no additional cost, making First-Class Mail particularly convenient for routine mailings.

The service’s popularity stems largely from its simplicity. You can attach a stamp and drop items in any collection box without permits or special sorting requirements. For enhanced security needs, services like Registered Mail and Certified Mail can be added for additional fees.

The key distinction remains between standard mail items (letters, postcards, flats) and packages within the First-Class category—only the package service includes automatic tracking.

How to Add Tracking to First-Class Mail

You have several options to add tracking to your First-Class Mail items. Standard letters and postcards don’t include tracking by default, so you’ll need to buy extra services.

Certified Mail has become the most popular tracking choice at $4.40 per item. This service gives you a mailing receipt and lets you verify delivery or attempted delivery electronically. On top of that, it keeps your recipient’s signature on record for two years and works with Return Receipt service to prove delivery.

Registered Mail serves as another tracking option, especially when you have high-security needs. This premium service covers insurance up to $50,000 and costs $15.25. Signature Confirmation might be a better fit for basic needs, costing $3.50 online or $3.65 at Post Office locations.

Budget-conscious customers can use third-party services like LetterTrack that track First Class mail for just $0.18 per envelope. These services add an Intelligent Mail Barcode above the address block that makes tracking possible throughout the postal system.

While not exactly a “tracking” service, recipients can get free Informed Delivery service notifications about their incoming mail, which allows you to see photos of your incoming mail. You can add these tracking services at your local Post Office or online, with online purchases usually offering better prices.


New USPS Flat Rate Prices for 2026 – Postage Changes for Flat Rate Loyalists

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USPS flat rate shipping breaks from its usual price hike pattern in 2026. For the first time in years, some flat rate envelope prices will actually drop by up to $0.20, even as Priority Mail services overall increase by approximately 6.6%. The changes take effect January 18, 2026, creating a mix of price adjustments that makes some popular shipping options more affordable.

The Postal Service approved specific decreases alongside broader increases. Flat Rate Envelopes will drop by $0.20, while Padded and Legal Flat Rate Envelopes will decrease by $0.10 each. Most weight-based Priority Mail rates will increase by up to 13%. Priority Mail Express prices will rise by an average of 5.1%, and Ground Advantage services will see a 7.8% increase. First-Class Mail stamp prices remain unchanged for this price update. The Postal Service frames these targeted changes as part of its ongoing plan to restore long-term financial sustainability.

For anyone who hasn’t revisited the basics in a while: flat rate means you pay one price regardless of weight (up to 70 lbs) or distance. A Small Flat Rate Box shipped from Miami to Anchorage costs the same as one sent across town. That simplicity is the whole selling point. No scale, no zone chart, no surprises. You grab the free packaging from USPS, stuff it full, and the price is the price. USPS Flat Rate pricing is tied to the packaging type (Envelope vs. Box, Small vs. Medium vs. Large). That means the fastest way to overspend is picking a bigger Flat Rate container than you need, or using Flat Rate when a lightweight shipment would be cheaper by weight (especially nearby).

USPS announces 2026 flat rate price changes

The Postal Service officially filed for new shipping rates starting January 18, 2026. The USPS Board of Governors approved these adjustments to maintain competitiveness.

Flat rate customers face mostly increases across popular shipping options. The Flat Rate Envelope jumps to $11.95 from $11.00, while the Small Flat Rate Box rises to $12.65 from $11.70. The Medium Flat Rate Box increases to $22.95 from $21.05. Large Flat Rate Boxes will cost $31.50, up from $29.95. Military APO/FPO/DPO Large Flat Rate Boxes see a smaller increase to $30.15.

Commercial customers continue receiving discounted rates compared to retail prices. A Flat Rate Envelope costs $10.30 for businesses versus the $11.95 retail rate.

These adjustments align with broader shipping rate increases across USPS services. Priority Mail averages a 6.6% increase, Priority Mail Express rises 5.1%, and USPS Ground Advantage climbs 7.8%. Parcel Select prices rise approximately 6.0%.

First-Class Mail stamps remain unaffected with no price increase.

USPS adjusts flat rate box and envelope prices

Flat rate shipping packages face varied price adjustments starting January 18, 2026. These changes affect how frequent flat rate users plan their shipping costs across different package types.

Priority Flat Rate Envelopes Increase by $1

Before the new pricing, a quick refresher on what fits where: the standard Flat Rate Envelope measures 12½” x 9½” and works for thin items like documents, contracts, photos, and soft goods like t-shirts. The Legal Flat Rate Envelope runs 15″ x 9½”, giving you extra room for legal-size documents and oversized paperwork. The Padded Flat Rate Envelope (12½” x 9½”) adds built-in cushioning for small electronics, jewelry, or anything that needs a little protection in transit. The Window Flat Rate Envelope continues serving pre-addressed mailings. All four must close and seal completely… no bulging, no tape-assisted miracles. If it doesn’t close cleanly, you need a box.

Across the board, Flat Rate Envelope pricing increased by about $1 for all products. Flat Rate Envelopes now cost $11.95 at post offices, up from $11.00. Legal Flat Rate Envelopes increase to $12.25, and Padded Flat Rate Envelopes jump to $12.95. Commercial customers pay substantially less, with standard envelopes at $10.30, legal envelopes at $10.80, and padded options at $11.10.

Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes — 2025 vs. 2026 Retail Prices

Packaging Type2025 Price2026 PriceChange
Flat Rate Envelope$11.00$11.95+$0.95
Legal Flat Rate Envelope$11.20$12.25+$1.05
Padded Flat Rate Envelope$11.95$12.95+$1.00

Priority Flat Rate Boxes Increase by $1-2

Small Flat Rate Boxes now cost $12.65 at retail locations, up from $11.70. Medium Flat Rate Boxes see a larger jump to $22.95 (previously $21.05), regardless of whether customers choose the top-loading or side-loading version.

Large Flat Rate Boxes reach $31.50 (up from $29.95), though military APO/FPO/DPO shipments receive a discounted rate of $30.15. Business customers benefit from significant savings across all box sizes, with commercial prices set at $11.20 for small, $19.60 for medium, and $28.70 for large boxes.

Packaging Type2025 Price2026 PriceChange
Small Flat Rate Box$11.70$12.65+$0.95
Medium Flat Rate Box$21.05$22.95+$1.90
Large Flat Rate Box$29.95$31.50+$1.55
APO/FPO/DPO Large Flat Rate Box$28.70$30.15+$1.45

Here’s the size breakdown worth bookmarking: the Small Flat Rate Box (8⅝” x 5⅜” x 1⅝”) is ideal for small, dense items like phone accessories, cosmetics, or small tools/hardware. The Medium Flat Rate Box comes in two versions: a top-loading option (11¼” x 8¾” x 6″) and a side-loading version (14″ x 12″ x 3½”) that’s perfect for books, framed prints, subscription kits or flat merchandise. The Large Flat Rate Box (12¼” x 12¼” x 6″) are the “ship a lot, ship it once” workhorse when you’re packing multiple items securely.

All flat rate products maintain their key advantage, shipping packages up to 70 lbs anywhere in the US for one predictable price.

Priority Mail Express Decreases Overnight Pricing

Priority Mail Express flat rate services will see price decreases in 2026, a rare occurrence in postal pricing, but only if you have access to commercial rates. This marks a notable exception to the overall trend of postal rate hikes as the USPS fights off FedEx and UPS.

Priority Mail Express for ordinary people as a whole will see an average increase of 5.1% despite these commercial decreases. The 2026 retail price for a standard flat rate envelope will be $33.25, while commercial customers will pay just $28.80. The legal flat rate envelope will cost $33.50 retail but only $29.10 for commercial shippers. Given the significant savings, it’s worth noting: Any business using a USPS-compatible shipping platform (Stamps.com, ShipStation, or similar services) automatically qualifies for commercial rates. You don’t need a special contract or minimum volume. 

Packaging Type2025 Retail Price2026 Retail Price2026 Commercial PriceChange
Express Flat Rate Envelope$31.40$33.25$28.80+$1.85
Express Legal Flat Rate Envelope$31.65$33.50$29.10+$1.85
Express Padded Flat Rate Envelope$32.25$34.15$29.35+$1.90

These adjustments reflect USPS’s strategic pricing approach. Priority Mail Express remains the premier overnight service for businesses, delivering in 1-3 days with a money-back guarantee. For time-sensitive documents and packages weighing up to 70 pounds, these services offer predictable flat rate pricing regardless of destination within the US.

Looking ahead: Mixed price adjustments reflect USPS strategy

The 2026 flat rate changes mark a departure from the usual pattern of across-the-board increases. Flat rate envelope decreases provide genuine savings for frequent shippers, while box prices continue climbing. This mixed approach reflects the Postal Service’s effort to balance competitive positioning with financial necessity.

Commercial shippers benefit significantly from the pricing structure, paying substantially less than retail customers across all flat rate products. The core advantage of flat rate shipping remains intact—predictable pricing for packages up to 70 pounds regardless of destination.

Ultimately, the Postal Service is trying to balance market competition with operational sustainability. The selective price decreases on envelopes suggest strategic positioning, while box increases reflect continued cost pressures. Flat rate loyalists face a more complex pricing landscape but retain the predictable shipping costs that make these services attractive for businesses and individuals nationwide.

All of these pricing increases go into effect January 18, 2026.

USPS Stamp Price Increase Remains in 2026 – No Increase

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You can finally stop worrying about a stamp price increase in January 2026. The United States Postal Service recently confirmed that First-Class Mail prices will stay the same at the start of the year. While shipping services will see hikes, the USPS chose to keep the cost of First-Class stamps at the current 78-cent rate through early 2026.

This decision breaks from recent USPS pricing patterns. The USPS governors accepted a recommendation from Postmaster General David Steiner to skip a price hike for “Market Dominant” products. However, other shipping services still face significant changes. Priority Mail will increase by about 6.6%, Priority Mail Express will rise 5.1%, USPS Ground Advantage will jump 7.8%, and Parcel Select will go up 6.0%. The USPS also indicated it plans to raise prices again in mid-2026, though it hasn’t announced specific details for those increases yet. For now, consumers can count on stable stamp prices through the first part of the year.

USPS Confirms No Stamp Hike for January 2026

In September 2025, the Postal Service officially announced that First-Class Mail prices would remain unchanged through early 2026. Postmaster General David Steiner specifically recommended against raising prices for these products, and the USPS Board of Governors approved his request.

The price for a standard one-ounce First-Class Mail letter will therefore remain at 78 cents, the rate established when stamps last increased in July 2025 (from 73 cents). This marks a departure from USPS’s recent pattern, as January price adjustments have become commonplace over the past decade. Steiner explained:

We continually strive to balance our pricing approach both to meet the revenue needs of the Postal Service and to deliver affordable offerings that reflect market conditions.

This stability aligns with the Delivering for America 10-year plan, which focuses on cost-effective operations and financial health. The USPS also pointed out that American postage remains a bargain compared to the rest of the world; only a few countries offer lower domestic letter rates. Even while holding prices steady, the USPS continues to implement cost-saving measures across its operations.

Historical trends show January increases are common

The absence of a January 2026 stamp price increase represents a significant deviation from established USPS practices. Historically, January has been a predictable time for postage rate adjustments. Since 2012, the agency has adjusted postage ten times during the first month of the year.

This pattern marks a sharp contrast with earlier postal history. Throughout the entire 20th century, stamp prices were adjusted only 17 times, yet since 2000, they have increased 16 times. The acceleration in frequency reflects the financial pressures facing the modern postal service, primarily due to declining mail volume—which has dropped by 68% since 2007.

Recently, the USPS has favored two increases per year—one in January and one in July. The July 2025 hike followed this pattern, which raised the First-Class Mail stamp from 73 to 78 cents.

Mailing Services price increases typically align with the consumer price index, whereas Shipping Services adjustments respond to market conditions [9]. Still, the USPS has typically adjusted both categories every January.

Even with regular increases, American postage remains relatively affordable internationally. A 2024 study found that U.S. stamp prices were lower than 26 out of 30 comparable countries. Moreover, despite periodic adjustments, the inflation-adjusted cost of stamps has remained relatively stable over time.

USPS raises shipping rates but keeps mailing services unchanged

Unlike the stability in First-Class Mail rates, the USPS has officially filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission for significant shipping rate increases starting January 18, 2026. These proposed adjustments, already approved by the USPS governors, will affect several popular shipping services. The upcoming changes include:

Priority Mail Express prices will now start at $33.00, while Ground Advantage starts at $7.30. The USPS credits this difference to its two-track strategy: mailing services follow the consumer price index, while shipping rates respond to the competitive landscape. This approach helps the USPS maintain stable letter rates while adjusting package costs to match market reality.

The Postal Service frames these selective increases as part of its broader effort to achieve financial sustainability, balancing revenue needs with competitive market positioning. Altogether, this approach allows the USPS to maintain stable letter mail rates throughout early 2026 while adjusting package shipping costs to reflect current market realities.

Looking ahead: Higher postage rates with a break on stamps

The USPS decision to hold First-Class prices steady through early 2026 marks a real shift in policy. For years, people expected a January hike. Instead, the 78-cent Forever stamp provides some predictability for households and businesses during the first months of 2026.

Shipping customers face a tougher start to the year. Those using Priority Mail or Ground Advantage will see higher costs beginning January 18. Postmaster General David Steiner’s choice to skip a mailing hike suggests the agency is weighing consumer needs against economic pressures. While this break is likely temporary—with mid-2026 increases already on the horizon—it offers a bit of breathing room for regular mail users.

Ultimately, the Postal Service is trying to balance its own survival with public affordability. Even with lower mail volumes, the agency is adjusting its strategy to keep services accessible while moving toward long-term financial health.

Key Takeaways

  • Stamps stay at 78 cents: The USPS breaks a decade-long trend of January hikes.
  • Shipping costs go up: Priority Mail and Ground Advantage see increases of 5–8% on January 18.
  • Two-track pricing: The USPS ties mail to inflation but ties shipping to market competition.
  • Mid-2026 hikes are coming: This price freeze only covers the first half of the year.

Coronavirus Update: Send USPS Mail Without Visiting the Post Office

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It’s a difficult time to stay in touch with loved ones and continue to operate a business as the Coronavirus outbreak forces many people to shelter in place or self-quarantine at home. The USPS is an essential service that has committed to continuing to operate but if you’re trying to send mail without leaving home it can be difficult.

There’s one solution with three incredible benefits during this tough time:

  • Stay home – Weigh, purchase and print postage without leaving your house
  • Send official postage – Print official USPS postage domestic or international
  • Save money on stamps – Save money on postage with stamp discounts you can’t get at the Post Office
Print USPS postage from your computer. Try Stamps.com today!

Ultimate Stamp Price Guide 2019

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“Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there.”

― Josh Billings, 19th-century American humorist

Effective 1/27/19, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has made changes to the price of a stamp. While some decreases can be found, the big change came in the largest-ever stamp price increase in history. And some prices have seen no changes at all. Read on for a complete guide to the price of a stamp and other postage increases 2019!

USPS Postage Price Changes – At a Glance

  • Mailing Services Products – approximate increase of 2.5%
  • Priority Mail Express –  approximate increase of 3.9%
  • Priority Mail increased approximate increase of 5.9%

Stamp Prices Are Low – An Overview

The USPS reportedly has some of the lowest postage rates in the world and offers competitive rates for shipping. The USPS, unlike other carriers, does not add extra fees for things like fuel, residential delivery, weekend delivery, or holiday season delivery. In addition, seeing zero tax dollars for operations, it subsists solely on sales of postage, products, and services to support its entirety. Before we get into the new prices, to whet your appetite, here are a few other USPS facts:

  • 493.4 million mail pieces are processed each day
  • That is 20.6 million each hour
  • Per minute, 342,638 are processed
  • And 5,711 mail pieces are processed every second

So, when you send your grandmother a letter letting her know you’re doing just fine, and yes you did get that $5 she mailed last week (thanks, Oma!), that’s factored into these statistics. When you sell your DVD boxset of The Nanny on Ebay because you have a digital copy now, and you ship that on to Utah, that’s another tick on the ol’ USPS fact sheet. When your hand has uncramped enough to finally get around to physically mailing out those thank you notes from your graduation party six months ago, those too are included in the 493.4 million mail pieces process each day!

Price Increases for First Class Mail

Here’s a recap of what First Class Mail gets you, at just the price of a stamp:

  • Best priced service for mail up to 13 oz
  • Delivery in 1 to 3 business days
  • Insurance for loss or damage up to $5,000 for merchandise only
  • Can combine with extra services to confirm delivery
  • Up to 3.5 ounces free with commercial priced letters and cards

Changes to Price of a Stamp for Letters and Postcards

With the 2.5 percent price increase for Mailing Services products, the most notable of the new rates is a five-cent increase to the price of a First-Class Mail stamp, from 50 cents to 55 cents. The 10 percent hike is the largest price increase in the history of the USPS. The second largest price hike was in 1991, when the price of a stamp increased from 25 cents to 29 cents.

Even though the basic 1-ounce price of a stamp went up, another part actually went down. The “additional ounce” price for letters will see a decrease of six cents, from 21 cents to 15 cents. Additional ounces cover anything that weighs more than 1-ounce which is typically a larger document or invitation. This means the 150 wedding invitations (typically a 2-ounce stamped letter) you need to send out may only cost 70 cents a piece, rather than 71 cents. And who doesn’t want to save $1.50?

Complete Pricing Breakdown

  • Letters (1 oz.) $0.55
  • Letters – Additional Ounces: $0.15
  • Non-Machinable Surcharge: $0.15 (see below!)
  • Letters (metered 1 oz.): $0.50 (metered mail is when a postage meter stamps directly onto the letter)
  • Outbound (Outgoing) International Letters (1 oz.): $1.15
  • Domestic Postcards: $0.35

Please note the base price of $0.55 is for a standard-sized, rectangular envelope. If your envelope is square, oversized, or unusually shaped, costs for stamps begin at $0.70. This factors in your non-machinable surcharge (see below).

In the same vein, stamps for standard-sized, rectangular postcards start at $0.35. Any oversized postcards require letter stamps, which as we’ve now learned, start at $0.55.

Complete Sizing Guide

Letters qualify under the following dimensions:

  • Length – minimum 5”, maximum 11 ½”
  • Height – minimum 3 ½”, maximum 6 ⅛”
  • Thickness – minimum .007”, maximum ¼”

Cards qualify under the following dimensions:

  • Length – minimum 5”, maximum 6”
  • Height – minimum 3 ½”, maximum 4 ¼”
  • Thickness – minimum .007”, maximum 0.016”

What is a “Non-Machinable” Surcharge?

If you have unusually shaped mail pieces – like uneven, stiff, square, or vertical envelopes – and the machine is unable to sort them into the correct pile, or if your mail has extras – like buttons, clasps, or string – it must be hand-cancelled (processed by a human being). These mail items are considered “non-machinable,” and a fee of $0.15 may be applied, even if they weigh less than the standard letter 1 oz.

What About Forever Stamps?

If you’re wondering about First-Class Mail Forever stamps – introduced in 2007 and designated for 1 oz letters that don’t expire even if stamp prices increase – they will still be available for purchase, but at the increased rate of $0.55. Forever stamps purchased before the increase on 1/27/19 will, of course, be honored.

Changes to Priority Mail Prices

First, here’s a quick recap of what the USPS Priority Mail service includes:

  • Delivery in 1 to 3 business days
  • Delivery available seven days a week in most locations
  • Prices starting at $7.35
  • Can combine with extra services to confirm delivery

Domestic Priority Mail Retail Flat Rate (Boxes and Envelopes)

In an attempt to simplify things, the USPS introduced the first flat rate envelope in 1991 and the first flat rate box in 2004. As their name indicates, there is a flat rate – a one-time fee – and no further weighing or calculating is needed. If they fit in the box, the price is locked and predictable. These ship in 1-3 business days.

Box TypeDimensionsPrice
Small Flat Rate Box8 11⁄16″ x 5 7⁄16″ x 1 3⁄4″$7.90
Medium Flat Rate Box (top loading)11 1⁄4″ x 8 3⁄4″ x 6$14.36
Medium Flat Rate Box (side loading)14″ x 12″ x 3 1⁄2″$14.36
Large Flat Rate Box12 1⁄4″ x 12 1⁄4″ x 6″$19.95
APO/FPO Large Flat Rate Box*12 1⁄4″ x 12 1⁄4″ x 6″$18.45
Regular Flat Rate Envelope12 1⁄2″ x 9 1⁄2″$7.35
Legal Flat Rate Envelope9 1⁄2″ x 15″$7.65
Padded Flat Rate Envelope12 1⁄2″ x 9 1⁄2″$8.00

*The USPS offers a discount of $1.50 per Priority Mail Flat Rate Box to those who want to send loved ones serving in the military a special delivery. Just look for the abbreviation APO – which stands for Air or Army Post Office – or FPO – which stands for Fleet Post Office (Navy).

A Note On First-Class Package Service and Zone-Based Pricing

First-Class Package Service, the light, fast service primarily used by businesses for fulfillment purposes will move to zone-based pricing. These zones are predetermined and factor the distance from where shipping begins to the package’s destination. According to USPS, this is to better align with the cost of service and is intended to improve value based on distance.

Concluding Thoughts on Stamp Price Increase

According to the New York Times, within the last ten years, the number of first-class mail pieces sent through the United States Postal Service has fallen by more than 50 percent. If you don’t include invitations and holiday cards, the average American household receives only 10 pieces of personal mail each year. Although the statistics presented earlier certainly seem staggering (5,711 mail pieces are processed every second?!), the fact of the matter is Americans just aren’t communicating the way they used to. And yet, a postal worker visits every mailbox several days a week, regardless of the volume.

One needs only to briefly visit the USPS website before discovering that, though the information is certainly helpful, it isn’t the most navigable or consumer-friendly. Perhaps if data was arranged in a one-stop, confusion-free way, folks would be able to move past the terms “non-machineable” and “automation,” and quickly reference whether or not their letter or package fits in a particular category, and how much that category costs. Yeah, someone should probably make that quick-reference…

So, here it is! Our Ultimate Guide to the 2019 Price of a Stamp.

Stamp Price Increase – Everything You Need to Know About the New Price of a Stamp

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The United States Post Office (USPS) has announced that stamp prices will increase this weekend. What does that mean for the typical household who mails greeting cards, thank you notes, bills, and letters? For starters, the price of a stamp will now be 55 cents, up 5 cents from the previous price.  You can also expect to pay anywhere from 2.5% to 5.9% more for shipping services with the USPS such as Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express.

Read on to learn more about how you can ensure that yourmail has sufficient postage with the imminent stamp price increase.

When will the new stamp price be effective?

The new price of a stamp will take effect Sunday, January 27, 2019.  This is the date when the price changes are slated to take effect. Whether your post office will continue to postmark and deliver mail that has been dropped off in post office boxes before Sunday with the old pricing depends on your local post office’s practices. Many post offices will return mail with insufficient postage to the sender and others will let some letters through for the next few days.

Those who have already mailed First Class letters which have been postmarked before Sunday, January 27 will not be affected by the price increase. A postmark is meant to cancel affixed postage and indicate that the USPS has taken custody of the letter or package for its delivery. You can read more about postmarks in the USPS handbook here.

Individuals who use a Forever Stamp to mail letters weighing less than 1 oz. will not be affected by the price change, and can continue to use their old Forever Stamps which they bought at the lower stamp prices.

How much are postal rates increasing?

The most significant change to the postal rates for those who regularly pay bills by mail, send greeting cards, etc., is the price increase for the cost of the Forever Stamp. Forever Stamps were created by the USPS in 2007 to mail First Class letters regardless of the postage rate. On January 27, 2019, the price of Forever Stamps will increase from 50 cents to 55 cents.

Does this increase apply to any other postage pricing?

  • First Class letters that are metered will undergo a rate increase from 47 cents to 50 cents for metered mail weighing less than 1 oz.
  • First Class outbound international letters will not undergo a rate increase and will remain at the current rate – $1.15 for letters weighing up to 1 oz.
  • First Class Domestic Postcard stamps will remain at their current rate – 35 cents.
  • Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services will also see a price increase. Priority Mail Express prices will go up by 3.9%, while Priority Mail will increase by nearly 6 percent. This includes both Priority Mail flat rate boxes and envelopes as well as “zone-based” Priority Mail pricing (which is based on geographic location as well as the weight of the letter or package). In general, as reflected by its most recent price increase, the USPS is moving toward zone-based pricing for both consumers and businesses to improve its efficiency. Check with your local post office for specific zone prices.

Will my stamps still work the same way?

Because the Forever Stamps were designed to work regardless of the exact “price of a stamp,” those who use Forever Stamps will largely remain unaffected by the rate change. You can still use your old Forever Stamps, regardless of how much you paid for them and when you bought them, to mail First Class letters weighing up to 1 oz. without affixing additional postage to the envelope.

First Class mail which weighs more than 1 oz. will require additional postage, but the price for additional ounces of mail will decrease with the most recent stamp prices which go into effect this weekend – down to 15 cents for each additional ounce rather than 21 cents. Therefore, using the old pricing rate for mail greater than 1 oz. will still ensure that your mail arrives promptly without interruption (because you’ll be paying a little more!). However, it’s best to consult with your local USPS office or use a postage scale to determine the new rate you will need to pay for letters weighing more than 1 oz. 

The bottom line is that unless you are mailing heavier envelopes that are greater than 1 oz., you can continue to use your Forever Stamps with no interruptions or changes. You can continue to use the old pricing for extra ounces on First Class Mail (as the additional ounces pricing has decreased in the most recent price updates). For First Class letters greater than 1 oz., obtain the most up-to-date postage pricing to ensure that your mail is delivered without interruption and at the lowest price.

What do I do with old stamps worth 50 cents or less?

For stamps you have purchased at the post office that are not Forever Stamps – for example, specialty stamps or extra postage you may have received at an Automated Postal Center – you will need to ensure that you affix at least 55 cents of postage – the current Forever Stamp rate for 1 ounce letters. This will ensure you’ll have no interruptions in mail delivery, such as your mail being returned to you as undeliverable due to insufficient postage.

What are my options for buying the new stamps and postage?

Your options for buying the new stamps and postage remain exactly the same as before. Postage can still be purchased at a local post office, online at usps.com, though a postage scale and at a variety of local retailers such as drugstores and grocery stores. On the USPS website, you can continue to purchase stamps and postage at the most up-to-date rate.

Why is the stamp price increase so large this year?

The postage rate increases were approved by the US Postal Regulatory Commission, the US Postal Service’s regulating body, last fall. The USPS is constantly balancing competitive pricing with making sure the operation actually works. The across-the-board average increase of 2.5% is meant to ensure that the USPS postal prices can keep up with inflation.

Before this weekend’s price increase, the largest stamp price jump occurred in 1991, when postage stamp prices increased 4 cents to 29 cents (a 16% hike). Therefore, this weekend’s First Class stamp price increase, while only a 10% hike, is the largest increase – 5 cents — in USPS history.

The Bottom Line

The USPS is raising postage prices in an effort to keep up with inflation, stay competitive, and be able to deliver the best services to customers while also generating enough revenue to operate. 

In summary, for those who are mailing normal-sized envelopes using Forever Stamps, with a weight of both less than or greater than 1 oz., you do not need to make any changes as your mail will still have sufficient postage and therefore be delivered without delays or interruptions.  Those using Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express services to mail packages and letters can expect to pay anywhere from 2.9-5.9% more.

Customers can obtain the most up-to-date pricing at a USPS location or bookmark our homepage to make sure they always know the price of a stamp!

New Postage Rates for 2014 — Stamp Price & Priority Mail Express Going Up

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The price of a stamp went up by 7% this Sunday, January 26th from 46 cents to 49 cents. Compared to typical standards enforced by the Postal Regulatory Commission, this is an enormous increase — all in the name of helping the USPS stay afloat as they face competition and economic challenges. And while the stamp price will have the most direct impact on consumers and businesses it isn’t the only the rate the Postal Service earmarked to hike this year. Surprisingly, some rates even went down.

Changes to Common Postage For Consumers: Forever Stamps, Postcards & Additional Ounces

While the price of a stamp for a 1-ounce letter went up by 3 cents, the changes are less observable in case of additional ounces and postcards, because the 2014 rates for each went up by only 1 cent. The change is 21 cents from 20 cents in case of additional ounces and 34 cents from 33 cents for postcards. This is not too much for a single mail piece, but multiplying the actual rate per additional ounces by ten (or any other value) will result in 10 cents (or more) paid in addition in 2014 by all consumers using USPS services. T

New Metered Mail Discount — One Way to Save

This year introduces a new loophole for the ordinary price of a stamp: by metering mail at home, a 1-ounce letter can be sent for 48 cents. This is a 1-cent saving now that the price has gone up.

Priority Mail — Nearly Unchanged; Deeper Discounts Online

Priority Mail's fancy new packaging -- without a price change

The 2014 Priority Mail rates will remain largely the same since the product was recently re-vamped in 2013 to include tracking, insurance and predictable delivery dates. Except from the Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Box and APO/FPO/DPO Large Flat Rate Boxes, which both increase by 0.60 cents, and 3-pound Priority Mail, which goes down in price by about 10 cents, all the other rates for 2014 Priority Mail Flat Rate stay the same and see no increase nor decrease compared to the last year.
Deeper discounts will come with printing postage online in 2014. Savings came to a maximum of 20% for folks printing Priority Mail postage from home and in 2014, savings will increase to up to 35%.

Many Changes to Priority Mail Express and Flat Rate Services

The Priority Mail Express rates are facing an average increase of three percent in 2014. These changes are spread across weight ranges and mailing distance, or “zones.” Even though the rates for 0.5 pounds stay the same, they are going up by 59 cents, 98 cents and 66 cents for one, two and three-pounds packages respectively for Zone 3 packages. The rates go up by 1.79 dollars for Zone 4 mailing, 1.98 dollars for Zone 5, 2.32 dollars for Zone 6, 2.15 dollars for Zone 7 and again 2.32 dollars for Zone 8 – all prices are applicable only for one-pound packages. The increases might not correspond very much –- for instance, the rate for 2-lbs packages in zone six is higher (1.49 dollars) compared to the rate for 3-lbs packages in the same zone (1.29 dollars) — so it may be worth looking over the USPS’s full breakdown.

Among Flat Rate Express services, the Flat Rate Boxes rate is the only one that suffered a change in 2014 compared to the previous year, going up by 5.00 dollars (from 39.95 dollars to 44.95 dollars). The other rates, Flat Rate Envelope, Legal Flat Rate Envelope and Padded Flat Rate Envelope, remain at 18.11 dollars in 2014, which is the same rate as in 2013.

2014 Stamp Price — How Much is it Going Up? When’s the Change?

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If you’re following USPS news and the price of a stamp closely, you’d know that the first class rate for postage stamps is rising this year. But even the Postal Service is making it hard to answer the two most fundamental questions: By how much is the price of a stamp increasing? And when is this all happening?

The simplest answer is: 49 cents and January 26th, 2014. That’s not all — so read on.

The Stamp Price Increase

The new price for a first class stamp will be 49 cents. That’s a never-before-seen 6% increase to the old price which was only 46 cents. It might not seem like that much of a hike but for a rate that businesses depend on, it’s huge. If the USPS were following the convention typically enforced by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the price would only go up by 1 cent. The real change is 3 cents. So, relative to expectations, the new price is a 300% rate surprise!

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Forever stamps will increase in value when the price of a stamp changes this year.

Don’t forget that the USPS has already helped us deal with its constant price changes by selling Forever stamps. If you own Forever stamps (or buy them before the price changes!), their value will automatically rise with the price increase. However, if you go to the post office even just the day after the price increase to buy Forever stamps, you’ll pay the new price of a stamp: 49 cents.

When the Price Changes

The price of a stamp increases to 49 cents on Jan. 26th, 2014 according to the USPS, but what does that really mean? Jan. 26 is a Sunday — very few corner mailboxes are serviced on Sundays and nearly every single post office is closed. The postal service doesn’t even deliver mail on Sundays.

The USPS’s wording suggests that the new 49-cent price takes effect on January 26th, so we can assume that the actual change takes place at midnight or close-of-business on Saturday, Jan. 25th. In other words, if you drop something in the mail on or after Jan. 26th, you should plan to apply postage valued at the new price: 49 cents. Or, if you buy stamps at a kiosk or at a post office that’s open on Sunday, you’ll get charged the new price of a stamp.

However, we know from past price increases that the USPS permits a very unofficial “grace period” where it will continue to deliver mail stamped for the old postage price. If you’re lucky, this will last all day Sunday, Jan. 26th. On Monday, Jan. 27th, be sure that all of your mail has 49 cents of postage attached or it might be returned or discarded.

Postage Rate Increase in 2014 — USPS Hopes to Hike Stamp Price by 3 Cents

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Today, the USPS announced a proposal requesting permission to increase the price of a stamp by 3 cents in January 2014. That would hike the price of a stamp from 46 cents to 49 cents. But don’t jump the gun and invest in forever stamps just yet — the rate increase might not get approved.

It’s no secret that the Postal Service is losing tons of money — some say up to $15 billion per year. The reasons behind these losses run the gamut: from truck fuel and retired employee healthcare to competition from email, social media and private mail services. This increase request is another attempt at raising revenue to help cover ballooning costs and impossible margins. According to the USPS, these new price changes will add $2 billion in revenue in 2014.

When the USPS wants to enforce a postage rate increase, it proposes them to the “Postal Regulatory Commission” or PRC. The commission is an independent government body which regulates how the Postal Service operates and it’s required by law to prevent the price of a stamp from increasing by more than the rate of inflation each year. This is what would makes this proposal so controversial: the dollar has only inflated about 1% in the past 12 months and isn’t expected to deviate much more than that by 2014. Unfortunately at 1% inflation, the USPS should only be allowed to increase the stamp postage rate by one cent. Instead, they’re asking for 3 cents. The last time this happened, this year in January, the USPS raised the stamp price to 46 cents from 45 cents… which was copacetic with inflation and approved by the commission.

3-Cent Postage Rate Increase in 2014

The USPS is hoping to increase stamp prices to 49 cents.

Mickey Barnett, the Chairman of the Postal Service Board of Governors, called this a “last resort” to help deal with the USPS’s financial challenges. They’ve made attempts at reforming the organization through legislation, including a threat to end Saturday delivery, which wasn’t successful. The Postal Regulatory Commission has the latitude to raise prices faster than inflation if circumstances are “extraordinary or exceptional,” and while the Post Office’s fiscal situation may suit that qualification, it hasn’t been a sufficient justification in the past. So, it seems unlikely that you’ll find the stamp price increasing by more than one cent in January. If your business depends on mailing letters, do count on a postage rate hike early next year (and stock up on forever stamps!) but it’s unlikely to outpace inflation.

The USPS hopes to enforce the new postage pricing on January 26th, 2014. The full proposal also includes a one-cent hike to the postcard rate, making it 34 cents; and a one-cent increase on additional weight for letters, making it 21 cents per ounce. They’ll submit the proposal to the PRC tomorrow.

Update 9/26/13: The USPS submitted their proposal today, as promised. The chair of the House Oversight & Government Reform Committee commented, pointing out that such a hike is a desperate measure and will push businesses away from using the USPS all together. Other blogs are posting about how buying forever stamps in advance of the increase could be a scheme for making quick cash.

USPS Improves Priority Mail Without Price Increase

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The USPS has improved its Priority Mail service without even raising the price of a stamp. If you use the post office frequently, you hardly expect improvements without a postage rate increase. There’s now faster, better Priority Mail service without a single penny added to the postage price.

What’s New with Priority Mail

There are many new features and benefits for Priority Mail including: new packaging, better tracking and free insurance. Also new to Priority Mail  is faster service — packages may arrive a day earlier. Before, Priority Mail could take two to three days. Now depending on from where and to where you are mailing, your Priority Mail could arrive overnight. In many cases Priority Mail service will now compete with the big overnight delivery companies like FedEx an UPS. And — you won’t be shocked by how much it costs!

Real Overnight Service without Price Hike

There is no postage rate increase for Priority Mail Service (yet!) even though packages could arrive as soon as overnight. While packages may arrive early, you won’t have a deliberate choice between overnight, two-day, or three-day delivery. This is always determined by the market you live in and you’ll get an estimate of the service speed when you purchase it. So if you are in a big city, chances are that you will get all the perks you are looking for with none of the punch to your pocketbook. The postage price for Priority Mail will remain flat, even though packages are expected to reach their destination sooner.

USPS Packaging, Tracking and Insurance Improved

The stylish new priority mail boxes.

The stylish new priority mail boxes.

The packaging at the Post Office has gotten an update, the tracking is better and there is now automatic insurance for all Priority Mail. For now, you can still use your old Priority Mail boxes but the new, stylish ones are already on the shelf at your local post office branch. In general, the tracking services for Priority Mail has also improved. New barcodes on the labels make finding your package easier and you will learn your expected delivery date as soon as you place your order. The free insurance depends on which payment method you use. You can get up to $50 of insurance for shipments sent at the Post Office or sent using Commercial Base Pricing. Businesses can get up to one hundred dollars worth of free insurance for shipments sent using Commercial Plus Pricing. (Commercial Base and Commercial Plus services depend on mailing volume.) You can always buy more insurance but this new feature will surely give you peace of mind.

Express Mail Changed to “Priority Mail Express”

The USPS has also rebranded Domestic Express Mail as Priority Mail Express. It’s still the same service but there is new packaging for this service as well. The USPS did a good deal of market research and found that the old packaging and service details were often confusing for customers. All of these changes were made in order to streamline the options for post office customers.With so many shipping services that compete with the USPS, making these changes seems like a smart move.

To stay competitive, it will be important for the USPS to continue to listen to its customers and to create valuable services in the future. Don’t be surprised if the prices go up, though. It is well known that the USPS is struggling and it will be a big win for their growth if people are satisfied with the changes. The best advice is to check out the new Priority Mail while the old pricing is still in effect.