Discover the benefits and features of USPS First Class Package Service, the reliable shipping option provided by USPS. Learn more now.
In today’s article, we will look in detail at the USPS First Class Package Service including delivery times and discuss what First-Class Mail refers to and how it works. So, let us get into the topic.
What Is USPS First Class Package Service?
First-Class Mail is the most widely used service of USPS. The majority of customers opt for this service as it is the quickest method available for delivery of the packages.
If you are asking yourself the question “What type of packages can we send via this service”? then we have the answers for you. Please see the list below. Whilst not exhaustive this covers the main categories of items that can be sent using this service:
- Standard Postcards
- Letters
- Larger Envelopes
- Small Packages
- Note that there is a maximum weight for packages to be sent. The weight of the package must not be more than 15.99 ounces.
- Above this weight, you should use Priority Mail
Table of Contents
USPS First Class Package Service – Size of the Package
Well, it’s time to know about the delivery timings of the First-Class Mail. Although the First Class mail does not provide any distinct delivery timings, normally it won’t take more than 1 to 3 business days to deliver the First-Class Mail delivery packages such as letters, larger envelopes and some standard cards.
USPS First Class Package Service – Free Mail
Customers who opt for this service can get up to 3.5 ounces free with commercial-priced letters and cards. The best part about this service is that it also has insurance cover.
USPS First Class Package Service – Insurance
If your First-Class Mail shipments have any damage then they are covered by insurance up to $5,000 but this is limited to merchandise only. It is also possible to combine this service with other add-on USPS services such as Signature Confirmation so that you get confirmation of your item being delivered.
USPS First-Class Mail does have some restrictions when sending that you should be aware of. These are as follows:
USPS First Class Package Service – Size of the Package
- Large Envelopes: In the case of large envelopes, the weight should be under 3.5oz.
- Parcels: In the case of the parcels, the maximum weight should be 13 oz.
USPS First Class Package Service – The Shape of the Package
- To ship any type of package using the First-Class Mail Service you should design or pack the package in a rectangular form. If the package is not rectangular the customer has to pay the additional charges depending on the type of carrier.
- The Package should not be hazardous and not contain any cigarettes or smokeless tobacco.
If the shape of the package is non-rectangular, i.e., square, flat, round, lumpy envelopes, vertical envelopes, rigid envelopes along with the button, strings they must be hand-cancelled.
In this case, you have to pay the surcharge no matter if the weight of the package is less than 1 oz.
The cost of the larger envelope will be higher compared to those that are smaller i.e. if the length and/or width are greater than the maximum allowed. You have to pay an extra amount appropriate to the size of the item.
The amount of the First-Class Mail delivery that will be charged will depend on the shape, size and weight of the package. The prices charged are as follows:
USPS First Class Package Service – Price Guide
Posting – Key Things to Remember
It is worth remembering that the first step in sending First Class Mail is to seal the item and then attach or write the address.
Remember to seal the item and then attach or write the address when sending First Class Mail.
As mentioned above the package should be rectangular and within the limits of the allowed weight, length, and width.
The essential point to note is the shape of the package and if the package is non-rectangular excess amount will be charged. The letters which can’t be sent through the automated machines will cost you $0.21 postal charges.
If the girth (distance around the package) is more than 108 inches, you will have to pick your package from the post office and send the same by using the Retail Ground Service of the USPS.
If all conditions given are satisfied, then we can send the package through the First-Class Mail Service. For the weight of the larger envelope, it costs around $0.98 and $2.61 for the first 3 ounces of the small packages.
People also often buy the add-on services for the First-Class Mail Service. For example, we have the Certified Mail which can be combined with this class mail to confirm delivery.
Steps to send the USPS First Class Package Service
- Print the complete address in the upper case letters (capital).
- Do not use any punctuation marks such as commas and colons.
- Use a pen or a permanent marker to write any information.
- Mention the ZIP code wherever required.
- If the package is damaged tick the option Fragile or Perishable.
- Do mention all the information precisely so that the package is delivered on time.
How Fast is USPS First Class Package Service?
How long does USPS First Class Package Service take? As mentioned above the delivery time will be not more than 1 to 3 days, and this type of service will be used for the sake of business and personal deliveries.
We can also send a brochure by using this service. USPS First Class Package Service with Delivery Time has been shown in the map below as follows:
From the map, we can conclude that no matter how the package is the delivery will be done in 1 to 3 days all over the U.S.
Conclusion – USPS First Class Package Service
I hope that you now have a better understanding of the USPS First Class Email Service, the delivery time, costs and restrictions. You may also be interested in our posts on Priority Mail and Tracking of your parcels.
