The U.S. Postal Service rate increases started July 9, and we’ve been digging through the details and finding ways to help you save on your next project.
Get quick access to the latest rates in this chart, and then read below for five tips to help your budget.
As you’re thinking about your next direct mail campaign, try these tips for saving on postage.
Consider alternate formats. With flats receiving the most significant price increase, it may be worth asking if your message could be conveyed in a letter-size mail piece. Letter-size doesn’t necessarily mean a simple letter and business-size envelope. The USPS considers any envelope 6.125"x11.5" or smaller and any self-mailer or booklet 6”x10.5” or smaller (finished size) to be a letter, so there’s plenty of room for creativity including interesting folds and extra panels. Choosing letter-size instead of flat rate could reduce your postage cost by as much as 45%.
Clean up your lists. The USPS will roll out the CASS Cycle O (Coding Accuracy Support System) on August 1, and it will allow us to improve address validation and matching. This can help you avoid paying for printing and postage on undeliverable mail.
Look at promos. Another way to save on postages is with USPS Postal Promotions. While two will end July 31, four postal promotions remain for the year. When you take advantage, you could save up to 6% on postage. Watch for more details.
Consider USPS Ground Advantage. Ground Advantage is new with very competitive rates and will roll out on July 9. A new 2–5 day service, Ground Advantage consolidates First Class Package Service, USPS Retail Ground, and Parcel Select Ground. It’s available for packages up to 70 pounds and includes tracking services. If it sounds like a potential fit for your upcoming project, we’d be happy to do a price comparison.
Talk to us. Set up a consultation with our team. We’d love to help you find ways to save money including USPS promotions, drop shipments, comingling, or switching mailer formats. Let's talk.
