USPS Rate Changes - 2024 | Overview

Shipping carriers routinely update their products, services, and rates. These changes usually occur at the beginning and midpoint of each year.

The USPS will implement two rate changes in July. The first adjustment will take effect on July 1st, followed by a second adjustment on July 14th. These changes will affect the following mailing and shipping rates:

View the USPS Rate Tables when shipping with USPS in ShippingEasy

Summary of 2024 Rate Changes

The USPS introduced two rate changes in July. The first took effect on July 1st, followed by another on July 14th. Additionally, a recently announced rate change will be implemented on September 16th. Here is a brief summary of what is changing for ShippingEasy subscribers who send using USPS:

September 2024 Rate Change

Effective September 16th, USPS will adjust rates for Priority Mail and Ground Advantage. This means certain shipping and mailing costs will increase for specific ZIP codes. Rest assured, you’ll still get discounted rates on most services through ShippingEasy.

Mailing Services

Effective July 14th, USPS implemented the following changes to its mailing services:

  • First Class Mail Forever® stamp will increase from 68 cents to 78 cents.

  • First-Class Mail® stamp will increase from 68 cents to 73 cents.

  • First Class Mail® prices will increase approximately 7.8%.

    The Mailing Services price changes include the following:

Product

January 2024 Rates

July 2024 Rates

FCM Letters (1 oz.)

$0.68

$0.73

FCM Letters (metered 1 oz.)

$0.64

$0.69

Domestic FCM Postcards

$0.53

$0.56

FCM International Postcards

$1.55

$1.65

FCM International Letters (1 oz.)

$1.55

$1.65

Domestic Shipping

Effective July 1st, USPS implemented the following changes to its domestic shipping services:

  • Ground Advantage™: Prices will increase for packages under and over 1 pound, with some adjustments as high as $2.11. Cubic pricing for Ground Advantage will also see an increase.

  • Priority Mail®: Expect a 5% average increase, with some rates going up to $3.10 more.

  • Priority Mail Flats®: Prices will rise by an average of 4%, with some individual rates potentially increasing up to $1.18.

  • Priority Mail Cubic®: This service will see the biggest increase, with an average jump of 10% and some rates going up to $2.97 more.

Can I still use my old NetStamps after the price increase?

Yes! Hold on to your NetStamps! NetStamps printed before the July 14th rate increase are still valid for mailing. However, you must ensure the postage they represent covers the new rate.

To recap you can use your old NetStamps, but you might need to add a 5-cent “top-up” to reach the new rate of 69 cents effective July 14th.

Here’s how it works:

  • If your NetStamp was printed with the old rate (that was 64 cents), it will only cover part of the new cost of the new rate.

  • To make up the difference, you’ll need to create and print a separate NetStamp for 5 cents (the difference between the old and new rate).

  • Stick both NetStamps on your shipment: the original 64-cent one and the new 5-cent one. This will add up to the current postage requirement which is 69 cents.

First-Class Mail stamps are going up by 5 cents, from 68 cents to 73 cents. However, when using ShippingEasy, you receive a discounted rate of 69 cents.

New Mailing Technology Requirements from USPS

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is implementing a new technology standard called Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) to modernize its mailing system.

What is IMI and why is it required?

IMI replaces the older technology, providing the USPS with more detailed, real-time data on your mailings. This upgrade translates to a smoother, more efficient mailing experience for everyone and offers several benefits:

  • Reduced costs: Eliminates the need to guesstimate postage, preventing overspending and returns.

  • Improved cash flow: Detailed transaction data makes it easier to track refunds and reimbursements.

  • Always up-to-date: Your system automatically receives the latest postage rates and service information.

  • Enhanced security: Robust security features protect your data.

  • Increased efficiency: IMI streamlines mail processing for the USPS, potentially leading to faster deliveries.

What does this mean for you?

The good news is you don’t need to take any action. ShippingEasy is already working diligently behind the scenes to ensure our technology is fully compliant with IMI by December 2024.  As an approved USPS partner, we’ll make sure your mailing operation continues to run smoothly without interruption.

Advance Proof of Postage Payment Required for Shipping Labels

The USPS will be strictly enforcing existing rules that require advance proof of postage payment for shipping labels beginning August 1, 2024.

At ShippingEasy, we’re happy to assure you that our service is already fully compliant with these regulations. You won’t need to make any changes to your current workflow when using ShippingEasy. As an approved USPS partner, we handle all the details behind the scenes, ensuring your mailing operations continue smoothly without interruption.

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