Welcome to the U.S. Postal Service Updates Blog, your guide to the changing postal scene. Here we share the latest news and rate updates from the USPS. Let’s take a closer look at the 2024 update.
Service changes for January 2024
Stamps.com was made aware of a recent USPS announcement recommending postage rates. Increase in fees for some first-class postal services We will notify you of these and other changes as new details become available. For now, the current stamp fee remains at 64 cents.
New mailing technology requirements from USPS
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is introducing a new technology standard called Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) to modernize its postal system.
What is IMI and why do I need it?
IMI replaces older technology and provides the USPS with more detailed, real-time data about mail. This creates a smoother, more efficient email experience for everyone. Upgrading has several benefits.
- Reduce costs: Eliminate the guesswork of shipping costs and avoid overspending and returns.
- Improve cash flow: Detailed transaction data makes it easy to track refunds and refunds.
- Always up to date: The system automatically receives the latest postage and service information.
- Enhanced security: Robust security features protect your data.
- Increased efficiency: IMI streamlines USPS mail processing and could lead to faster deliveries.
What does this mean to you?
Fortunately, no action is required. Stamps is already working hard behind the scenes to ensure the technology is fully compliant with his IMI by December 2024. As a certified partner of the USPS, we make sure your postal services continue to run smoothly and without interruption.
Service changes for January 2024
Starting January 21st, USPS is starting to change its shipping rates, which will impact various services and package categories. Stamps remains committed to providing first-class service to its customers and announces that through its partnership with USPS, customers can enjoy enhanced discounts on Priority Mail® and Ground Advantage Rates™ compared to Commercial Plus rates I’m happy to be able to do this.
Here’s an overview of the changes and how they affect your shipping and mailing strategies.
Ground Advantage™
- Ground Advantage™ Less than 1 lb: Up to 6.6% off
- Ground Advantage™ 1 lb or more: Up to 25.1% off
- Ground Advantage™ Cubic: Up to 21.2% off
as reminder, Ground Advantage™ was introduced in July 2023. This service is a combination of USPS Retail Ground, USPS Parcel Select Ground, and USPS First Class Package services. The January 21st change applies to all weights, zones, and cube dimensions over 12 ounces using Ground Advantage™.
Priority Mail®
- Priority Mail 6-10 pounds: up to 12% off
- Priority Mail Flat Rate: Up to 2.5% discount
- Priority Mail Cubic: Up to 15.8% off
So where do we see the biggest changes? Short answer: it depends. Exact pricing depends on package details and distance traveled. As always, we encourage you to compare prices and services to find the best option for your business.
mailing service
Shipping charge for 1 oz. The cost of first-class mail will increase from 66 cents to 68 cents. However, with Stamps.com, the metered postage rate for the same letter only increases from 63 cents to 64 cents, saving you $0.04 compared to retail rates.
USPS Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Label Changes
Although the primary focus of this rate adjustment is shipping charges, it is important to note unrelated changes to HAZMAT labels. Starting January 21st, the USPS has strengthened safety measures when handling the transportation of hazardous materials. An oversized letter “H” appears in the corner of the HAZMAT label, a 2D barcode is added, and the word “HAZMAT” is added after “USPS TRACKING #.” Shippers do not need to take any special action when printing labels if their shipment contains hazardous materials other than selecting the hazardous materials in the special service.Learn more about HAZMAT updates its blog.
Latest information on insurance premium rates
In addition to rate adjustments, Stamps.com users should also be aware of insurance premium increases. However, depending on your service plan, you can receive discounts of 10% to 40% compared to USPS insurance rates.
increase efficiency
Despite these changes, Stamps.com continues to offer significant savings on shipping costs, with discounts of up to 89%* through our partnerships with USPS and other carriers. We aim to streamline your shipping and mailing operations and offer discounted rates for a smooth sending process.
As the shipping landscape evolves, staying informed about rate changes and adjusting your strategy accordingly can contribute to a more efficient and cost-effective shipping experience. Keep these insights in mind as you deal with the 2024 USPS shipping rate adjustments.Learn more about Help Center Articles.
*Prices are limited to shipments from the continental United States only. These rates and discounts do not include shipments originating from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Alaska. Prices and applicable discounts are subject to change at any time without notice.
