Mail rate increase

The dreaded mail rate increase!

Yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced several rate increases over the years, and it's likely that you've felt the impact on your mail and package shipping costs. Here are some key points to know:

Why do mail rates increase?

  1. Inflation: As the cost of living increases, so do the costs of operating a postal service. USPS needs to adjust its rates to keep up with inflation.
  2. Decline in mail volume: With the rise of digital communication, the volume of mail has decreased, leading to a decline in revenue. To compensate, USPS increases rates to maintain its financial stability.
  3. Cost of services: USPS faces increasing costs for fuel, labor, and other expenses, which are passed on to customers through rate increases.

Recent mail rate increases

  1. 2022 rate increase: On August 29, 2022, USPS implemented a rate increase of 6.2% for most mail services, including First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Parcel Post.
  2. 2021 rate increase: On August 29, 2021, USPS increased rates by 4.2% for most mail services.
  3. 2020 rate increase: On January 26, 2020, USPS implemented a rate increase of 3.2% for most mail services.

How to prepare for mail rate increases

  1. Plan ahead: If you regularly send mail or packages, consider adjusting your shipping schedules or exploring alternative shipping options.
  2. Use online rate tools: USPS offers online rate tools, such as the USPS Rate Calculator, to help you estimate shipping costs and plan accordingly.
  3. Consider alternative shipping options: If you're sending packages, you may want to explore alternative shipping options, such as private carriers like UPS or FedEx, which may offer more competitive rates.
  4. Consolidate your mail: If you're sending multiple items, consider consolidating them into a single package to reduce shipping costs.

Remember, mail rate increases are a normal part of doing business with the USPS. By planning ahead and exploring alternative options, you can minimize the impact of these increases on your budget.