Minimum Weight: None.

Maximum Weight: 13 ounces (over 13 ounces, First-Class Mail becomes Priority Mail).

Letter Maximum Weight: 3.5 ounces.

Minimum Quantity to Mail at Discounted Rates: 500 pieces.

First-Class Mail letter-size pieces that are square, rigid or meet at least one of the nonmachinable characteristics are subject to the $0.20 nonmachinable surcharge.

Flat-size pieces that are rigid, nonrectangular, or have uneven thickness will pay the parcel price.

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.

Many beginning mailers use First-Class Mail cards and letters because, if you mail at single-piece rates, there’s no special payment method, no mailing permit, and no extra time to presort the mail. You simply put a stamp on it and drop it in the collection box. Simple and quick.

Decision Tree: Six easy questions will lead you directly to the information you need about First-Class Mail.

Calculate postage for First-Class Mail

Ratefold – Notice 123 (PDF)

Domestic Mail Manual - Rates and Fees (HTML)

Business Rate Calculator – Compute rates for all discount mail.

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