What constitutes media mail usps
Media Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows for the mailing of certain types of materials at a lower rate than regular First-Class Mail. To qualify for Media Mail rates, the mailpiece must meet certain criteria, which are outlined below:
- Content: Media Mail is limited to the mailing of printed matter, such as:
- Books (including hardcover, paperback, and audiobooks)
- Magazines
- Newspapers
- Sound recordings (e.g., CDs, vinyl records)
- Video recordings (e.g., DVDs, VHS tapes)
- Film and video tapes
- Printed music
- Sheet music
- Format: Media Mail is only available for mailpieces that are:
- Printed on paper or cardboard
- Bound or unbound
- Not containing any non-printed matter (e.g., no packaging materials, no non-printed inserts)
- Weight and Size: There are no specific weight or size limits for Media Mail, but the mailpiece must be able to be mailed in a standard envelope or package.
- No Advertising: Media Mail is not allowed to contain any advertising or promotional materials, such as:
- Catalogs
- Brochures
- Flyers
- Postcards
- Business reply cards
- No Personalized Items: Media Mail is not allowed to contain any personalized items, such as:
- Greeting cards
- Stationery
- Envelopes with handwritten addresses
- No Commercial or Business Use: Media Mail is intended for personal use only and is not allowed for commercial or business purposes, such as:
- Shipping products for sale
- Sending promotional materials
- Conducting business transactions
If your mailpiece meets these criteria, you can use Media Mail rates, which are generally lower than First-Class Mail rates. However, be sure to check the USPS website or consult with a postal representative to confirm that your specific mailpiece qualifies for Media Mail rates.