Is regular mail first class

In the United States, the term "First Class Mail" specifically refers to a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provides fast and reliable delivery of letters, cards, and other lightweight items.

Regular mail, on the other hand, is a more general term that can refer to any type of mail service offered by the USPS, including First Class Mail, Priority Mail, and other services.

In the past, all mail was considered "First Class Mail" and was subject to a higher rate than other types of mail. However, in 1971, the USPS introduced a new classification system that separated mail into different categories based on its weight, size, and destination.

Today, First Class Mail is a specific type of mail service that is characterized by the following features:

  1. Fast delivery: First Class Mail is typically delivered within 1-3 business days, depending on the distance between the sender and the recipient.
  2. Priority handling: First Class Mail is given priority handling at USPS processing facilities, which means it is sorted and delivered more quickly than other types of mail.
  3. Tracking: First Class Mail is trackable, which means that the sender can track the status of their mail online.
  4. Insurance: First Class Mail is eligible for insurance coverage, which protects against loss or damage during transit.

Regular mail, on the other hand, can refer to any type of mail service that is not First Class Mail, such as:

  1. Standard Mail: This type of mail is used for bulk mailings, such as catalogs, brochures, and advertisements. It is typically delivered within 3-10 business days.
  2. Periodicals: This type of mail is used for publications such as newspapers, magazines, and newsletters. It is typically delivered within 3-10 business days.
  3. Parcel Post: This type of mail is used for heavier items, such as packages and boxes. It is typically delivered within 2-9 business days.

In summary, while all First Class Mail is considered regular mail, not all regular mail is First Class Mail.