Mail Classifications
First class
Minimum Weight: None.
Maximum Weight: 13 ounces (over 13 ounces, First-Class Mail becomes Priority Mail).
Minimum Quantity to Mail at Discounted Rates: 500 pieces.
The U.S. Postal Service offers special postage rates for Priority Mail flat-rate containers. Regardless of weight (up to 70 pounds) or destination, any amount of material that fits into a USPS Priority Mail flat-rate container can be mailed for one low price. Priority Mail envelopes, boxes, and tubes are available for free from your local post office.
First-Class Mail that weighs 1 ounce or less, depending on the shape, may be subject to a nonmachinable surcharge.
All mailable matter can be mailed as First-Class Mail. Some things MUST be mailed as First-Class Mail (or Priority Mail), including:
- Handwritten or typewritten material
- Bills, statements of account or invoices, credit cards
- Personal correspondence, personalized business correspondence
- All matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection
First-Class Mail includes:
- cards
- letters
- flats
- parcels that weigh 13 ounces or less
Single-piece rates, Presorted rates and automation rates are available.
If getting your mail there fast is your top priority, use First-Class Mail. First-Class Mail postage rates are the same regardless of how far the mail travels. That’s a great deal!
First-Class Mail postage includes forwarding and return services. You can enhance the service, security, and convenience of First-Class Mail by adding special services such as registered mail and certified mail. These services are available for a small fee.
Note that the US Postal Service is a wonderful resource for updates on mail classification requirements. Please visit www.usps.com to find the most up-to-date postage rates, sizes, and maximum and minimum weights
