New USPS Mail Rate Changes for 2007
Rate Change Basics
New USPS rates effective May 14, 2007
The upcoming rate change is unlike any in recent years. The new United States Postal Service (USPS) rate structure will put a greater emphasis on size, shape and weight – while encouraging improved address quality.
Quick overview: A big-picture look at what’s changing – and why.
When the rates become effective May 14, 2007, you will see:
- A rate increase in almost every class of mail.
- In addition to weight, the rate structure places a greater emphasis on size and shape.
- A reduction in the cost of an “additional ounce” for First-Class Mail.
- More affordable address update solutions.
- Worksharing (presorting) remains key to lowering your expenses.
- Permanent flat-rate pricing for Priority Mail envelopes and boxes.
- New opportunities in barcoding and low-cost delivery confirmation services.
What is the USPS trying to accomplish?
The USPS is looking to better align postal rates with the actual costs to process and deliver mail on a piece-by-piece basis. In basic terms, you will be given incentives to:
- Create mailpieces that are compatible with the USPS processing systems
- Improve address quality
- Deposit letters, flats and parcels closer to their destinations
Through these changes, both you and the USPS will benefit from a more efficient approach to overall mail preparation and delivery – one that will provide stability, value and added economies well into the future.
Highlights of new rates
FIRST-CLASS MAIL Current - New
One-ounce letter $0.39 - $0.41
One-ounce flat $0.52 - $0.80
One-ounce parcel $0.52 - $1.13
Each additional ounce $0.24 - $0.17
Postcard $0.24 - $0.26
OTHER RATES Current - New
Standard Mail $0.214 - $0.235
(3-Digit Automation)
Priority Mail $4.05 - $4.60
(Flat Rate Envelope)
Certified Mail $2.40 - $2.65
IMPORTANT NOTE: On March 19, 2007, the Governors of the U.S. Postal Service approved the Opinion and Recommended Decision of the Postal Regulatory Commission in R2006-1. In the Decision the Governors accepted the rates but asked the Commission to reconsider its rate recommendations for Standard Mail flats, the Non-Machinable Surcharge for Single-Piece First-Class Mail letters and the Priority Mail Flat-Rate Box. Because the Governors requested reconsideration of these rate recommendations, future changes in the rates are possible.
For more information and details on the new rate changes taking effect on May 14, 2007, please visit the U.S. Postal Service website at http://www.usps.com