On January 26th 2020, the USPS updated its metered postage rates. For details about new prices and the savings offered by a using a postage meter, refer to the price tables below.
2020 Changes to First-Class Mail Metered Postage Rates
| Weight Not Over (oz.) | Stamped Letters | Metered Letters | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.55 | $0.50 | $0.05 |
| 2 | $0.70 | $0.65 | $0.05 |
| 3 | $0.85 | $0.80 | $0.05 |
| 3.5 | $1.00 | $0.95 | $0.05 |
For information on the updated Priority Mail 2020 rates, refer to the table below.
2020 Priority Mail Flat Metered Postage Rates
| Priority Mail Flat Rates | |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Price |
| Flat Rate Envelopes (12-1/2″ x 9-1/2″ or smaller) | $7.15 |
| Legal Flat Rate Envelope | $7.45 |
| Padded Flat Rate Envelope | $7.75 |
| Small Flat Rate Box | $7.65 |
| Medium Flat Rate Box | $13.20 |
| Large Flat Rate Box | $18.30 |
| APO/FPO/DPO Large Flat Rate Box | $16.80 |
Using your Postage Meter to Save Money
Shape-determined pricing is still in operation, meaning that the format and dimensions of a postal item will impact significantly on its cost.
Despite the changes to mailing rates, postage meter provider Pitney Bowes have some useful tips for making the most of your mailing solutions:
- Rates are based on each ounce per item so makes economic sense to put as many items as possible into the same envelope.
- Mailing fewer heavier items is less expensive than posting multiple items weighing 1oz each. Therefore you should ‘bulk out’ letters with inserts, brochures and marketing material, combining multiple elements in one envelope.
- Using a postcard in place of a letter is significantly cheaper. This is ideal for reminders, invites, lead generation and notifications, and it reduces your spending on paper.
- Try exchanging ‘flats’ for ‘folded’ and save yourself the fee on each item. By incorporating an integrated intelligent insertion application with a heavy gauge folder, it is possible to produce letter size items for mailing effectively and productively.
Lastly, most current postage meters offer shape-based rating technology which will allow for optimum efficiency in the processing of mixed weight items of up to 16oz.
The non-machinable surcharge is applied when 1st class mail items are identified as too difficult for USPS processing.
By keeping items equal to or less than 3.5oz and ensuring that dimension ratios (length/height) fall between 1.3″ x 2.5″,it is possible to take full advantage of the continuation of the $0.21 surcharge.
The only thing to remember is not to include any articles such as pens, coins or keys in the envelope which may cause the item to become misshapen and to abide by the size restrictions as follows:
First-Class Mail Dimensions
| Size | minimum | maximum | Max Weight (oz.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 5 inches | 11-1/2 inches | 1 |
| Height | 3-1/2 inches | 6-1/8 inches | 2 |
| Thickness | 0.007 inch | 1/4 inch | 3 |
If you’re ready to consider leasing a postage meter for your own business read more about the only USPS approved postage meter companies or find out more about postage meter rental.
