Classifications and Rates
USPS Options
| Domestic Service | Average Delivery Time | Fees* |
|---|---|---|
| Express Mail | Overnight (most locations) | From $29.20 (Prices are based on weight and distance) |
| Express Mail Flat Rate | Overnight (most locations) |
Envelope Flat Rate: $28.75 Legal Envelope Flat Rate: $28.95 Padded Envelope Flat Rate: $29.45 |
| Priority Mail | 1-3 days | From $9.35 (Prices based on weight and distance) |
| Priority Mail Flat Rate | 1-3 days |
Envelope Flat Rate: $9.65 Small Flat Rate: $10.20 Medium Flat Rate: $17.10 Large Flat Rate: $22.80 |
| First-Class Mail | 3-5 days | Postcards: $0.51 Letters: $0.66 Flats: $1.35 (Prices based on weight and shape) |
| USPS Ground Advantage | 2-5 days | (Prices are based on weight, shape, and zone) |
| Media | 2-9 days |
From $3.92 (Prices are based on weight - content restrictions apply) |
| Library | 2-9 days |
From $3.72 (Prices are based on weight - content restrictions apply) |
| Additional Services | Details | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Mail | Provides a mailing receipt as proof that the article was sent. Delivery status is available to track when the item was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made. The signature of the person who accepts the article may be requested by purchasing a Return Receipt. | $4.35 |
| Return Receipt | Get an electronic or hardcopy delivery record showing the recipient's signature. | $3.55 |
| Insurance | Provides indemnity coverage (up to $5,000) for lost or damaged items ($100 of insurance is included in Express Mail service) |
(Price depends on mail class) |
| Registered Mail | The most secure service; provides maximum security (indemnity coverage up to $25,000) | (Price depends on declared value) |
What are the different classifications of mail?
Express Mail - Express Mail Service is an expedited handling service offered by the U.S. Postal Service. Express Mail and FedEx packaging materials can be ordered via mail supplies and forwarded to a mail stop. Departments are recharged the actual postage cost plus the approved campus surcharge.
Priority Mail - All first-class mail weighing more than 13 ounces and not exceeding 70 ounces is considered priority mail. At the option of the mailer, any mail weighing 13 ounces or less can be sent priority mail. There is no minimum weight limitation. There is a flat rate of up to two pounds. Use priority mail when two or three-day service is needed. Note: Priority Mail is a two-day service between major markets/cities. Contact Distribution Services at x46734 for specific information.
First-Class Mail - Any piece of mail weighing up to 13 ounces or less may be sent First-Class at your option. First-Class mail is subject to inspection. Departments are charged the actual cost of postage plus any approved surcharge.
Ground Advantage - The following items may be sent via Ground Advantage: packages, merchandise, library materials, bound printed matter, sound recordings, videotapes or discs, computer media, books, and films. Each piece may not exceed 70 pounds in weight and a maximum size of 108 inches in length and girth combined. Prices may vary according to recipient's zone.
Media Rate - Specific items of Media. Examples: Books (at least 8 pages), CDs and DVDs, 16-millimeter or narrower width films. These are subject to inspection.
Library/Media Rate - Specific items mailed between academic institutions, public libraries, museums, and other qualified organizations.