Cost and time of sending certified mail
The cost and time of sending certified mail can vary depending on the type of service you choose and the destination of the mailpiece. Here are some general guidelines:
Cost:
- Certified Mail: The cost of certified mail is $3.35 for a 1-ounce letter, with additional ounces costing $0.15 each.
- Certified Mail with Return Receipt: The cost of certified mail with return receipt is $5.95 for a 1-ounce letter, with additional ounces costing $0.15 each.
- Certified Mail with Signature Confirmation: The cost of certified mail with signature confirmation is $7.95 for a 1-ounce letter, with additional ounces costing $0.15 each.
Time:
- Delivery Time: Certified mail is typically delivered within 1-3 business days within the continental United States, and 3-5 business days to Alaska and Hawaii.
- Tracking: Certified mail with tracking (such as Certified Mail with Return Receipt or Signature Confirmation) allows you to track the delivery status of your mailpiece online.
- Proof of Delivery: Certified mail with return receipt or signature confirmation provides proof of delivery, which can be used as evidence in case of a dispute.
Additional Services:
- Priority Mail: If you need to send certified mail quickly, you can use Priority Mail, which is a faster and more expensive service. Priority Mail costs $7.95 for a 1-ounce letter, with additional ounces costing $0.15 each.
- Overnight Delivery: If you need to send certified mail overnight, you can use Priority Mail Express, which is a same-day delivery service. Priority Mail Express costs $25.95 for a 1-ounce letter, with additional ounces costing $0.15 each.
Tips:
- Make sure to use the correct postage and to affix the correct amount of postage to your mailpiece.
- Keep a record of your certified mail, including the tracking number and the date of mailing.
- Consider using certified mail with return receipt or signature confirmation if you need proof of delivery.
- If you need to send certified mail internationally, you will need to use a different type of service, such as First-Class Package International Service or Priority Mail International.