Written by Dan Barraclough Updated on January 26, 2021 On January 24th 2021, 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.2021 Changes to First-Class Mail Metered Postage RatesWeight Not Over (oz.)Stamped LettersMetered LettersSavings1$0.55$0.50$0.052$0.70$0.65$0.053$0.85$0.80$0.053.5$1.00$0.95$0.05For information on the updated Priority Mail 2021 rates, refer to the table below. Did You Know? Your business could save up to 33% on mail by using a postage meter. Compare postage meter quotes to get the best price for your business today Get free quotes 2021 Priority Mail Flat Metered Postage RatesPriority Mail Flat RatesItem TypePriceFlat Rate Envelopes (12-1/2″ x 9-1/2″ or smaller)$7.40Legal Flat Rate Envelope$7.70Padded Flat Rate Envelope$8.00Small Flat Rate Box$7.90Medium Flat Rate Box$13.75Large Flat Rate Box$19.30APO/FPO/DPO Large Flat Rate Box$17.80 Want a postage meter to save your business money? Get Free Quotes Using your Postage Meter to Save MoneyShape-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 DimensionsSizeminimummaximumMax Weight (oz.)Length5 inches11-1/2 inches1Height3-1/2 inches6-1/8 inches2Thickness0.007 inch1/4 inch3If 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. Dan Barraclough Dan’s a Senior Writer at Expert Market, specialising in digital marketing, web design, and photocopiers, amongst other topics.