What is media mail with the usps
Media Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows individuals and businesses to send printed materials, such as books, CDs, DVDs, and other media, at a lower cost than regular First-Class Mail.
Media Mail is designed for sending non-liquid, non-perishable items that are not intended for personal use, but rather for distribution or resale. The service is popular among bookstores, libraries, and online retailers, as well as individuals who want to send large quantities of printed materials.
Here are some key features of Media Mail:
- Lower rates: Media Mail rates are significantly lower than First-Class Mail rates, making it a cost-effective option for sending large quantities of printed materials.
- Limited services: Media Mail does not offer tracking, insurance, or signature confirmation. It is a basic, no-frills service.
- Eligible items: Media Mail is only available for sending printed materials, such as:
- Books (hardcover and paperback)
- CDs and DVDs
- Vinyl records
- Tapes (audio and video)
- Printed music sheets
- Printed educational materials (e.g., textbooks, workbooks)
- Prohibited items: Media Mail is not available for sending items that are:
- Liquid or perishable
- Intended for personal use
- Valuable or high-value items (e.g., jewelry, artwork)
- Hazardous materials
- Delivery time: Media Mail typically takes 2-8 business days for delivery within the contiguous United States, and 3-10 business days to Alaska and Hawaii.
- Package size and weight: There are no specific size or weight limits for Media Mail, but packages must be able to be mailed in a standard USPS mailbox.
To use Media Mail, you'll need to affix the correct postage and complete a Media Mail label, which can be obtained at a USPS post office or online. Keep in mind that Media Mail is a non-trackable service, so it's essential to ensure that your package is properly packaged and addressed to avoid loss or damage.