How Much is First Class Postage?

How much is First Class Postage? The price for sending the United States Postal Service (USPS) First Class Postage went up recently. USPS suggested raising the cost in July because they felt the increase was needed because of rising prices due to inflation.

So, there have been many questions about the current price of posting USPS First Class Mail. It’s a question that seeks clarity.

This guide will provide an answer to the above question and also offer insights into other aspects of USPS First Class Mail.

Are you ready? Let’s go.

How Much is First Class Postage?

The cost of First Class postage varies depending on the type of mail and the weight. The rate for First Class postage is captured below:

Type of Mail	Current 2023 Rates	Old Rates (June 2023)
First-Class Mail letter (1 ounce)	$.66	$.63
First-Class Mail letter – each additional ounce	$.24	$.24
First-Class Mail Flat/Large Envelope (1 ounce)	$1.26	$1.20
First-Class Mail Flat/Large Envelope – each additional ounce	$.24	$.24
Postcard	$.51	$.48

What is Considered First Class Mail?

First Class Mail applies to letters meeting its required size and weight criteria.

Your letter must have a minimum size of 3½ inches in height and 5 inches in length, with a thickness of at least 0.007 inches.

Also, letters sent via First Class Mail must weigh not more than 3.5 ounces. It ensures that letters are processed and delivered efficiently through the postal system.

Letters that are more than these sizes and weight limits may require different postage rates.

Does First Class Mail Offer Insurance?

You’re definitely protecting your shipment when you insure your First Class Mail.

First Class Mail offers the option to purchase insurance to protect mail in case of loss, damage, or theft.

Valuable items like documents, high-value goods, or sentimental items need to be insured to provide you with ease and peace of mind.

Insuring your First Class Mail comes with an extra cost. The insurance cost depends on the items you’re sending and any potential risks.

Interestingly, you can file a claim to recover the declared value of the mail, up to the insured amount, if it is lost or damaged in transit.

Ultimately, the choice to insure your First Class Mail depends on the individual circumstances and the perceived risk associated with your specific shipment.

Can I Use a Priority Mail Box for First Class?

Each USPS mail service has its labeled packaging to ensure proper handling, processing, and postage application.

You cannot use a Priority Mail box or envelope for sending items via First Class Mail.

Priority Mail packaging is labeled just for Priority Mail service and must be used for that particular service.

There is always a problem when you decide to send First Class Mail in a Priority mailbox or envelope.

It always results in USPS refusing the shipment. To ease potential frustrations, it is advisable to make use of appropriate packaging when sending items through the postal service.

This practice not only reduces issues with USPS but also ensures a smooth journey for your mail throughout the postal system.

For further details on USPS packaging, you can consider visiting the USPS website.

Can I Use Flat Rate Boxes for First Class Mail?

Flat rate boxes cannot be used for First Class Mail postage. USPS does not provide boxes or envelopes labeled for First Class Packages or mail.

You are expected to supply your own packaging or envelopes when you are sending items via First Class Mail

Flat rate boxes are exclusively for Priority Mail Flat Rate. It offers fixed-rate shipping regardless of the package’s weight or destination within the United States.

These boxes are not suitable for First Class Mail, which is priced based on factors like the weight, size, and distance traveled for each individual item.

It’s essential for businesses and individuals who frequently send mail to know the pricing of USPS First Class Mail.

The current prices ensure that make smart choices and deliver your mail to where it needs to be without worries.

USPS First Class Mail is a reliable way to send letters and packages, and it also offers extra services to make mailing easier.