Making it easier to use the Postal Service

Flat Rate Envelopes

When mailing at the Priority Mail or Express Mail flat rate, the contents of the flat rate envelope must be confined within the envelope, with the adhesive provided on the flap as the primary means of closure. The flap must close and adhere to the envelope. Tape may be applied (to the flap and/or seams) to reinforce the envelope, provided the design of the envelope is not enlarged by any means (e.g., opening the side of the envelope and then taping or reconstructing the envelope). Any amount of material that can be mailed in the flat rate envelope is subject to the flat rate postage, regardless of weight.

A flat rate envelope does not have to remain flat to be eligible for the flat postage rate, and it is not limited to or specifically intended for such items as books, booklets, and magazines. The term “flat rate” means there is one postage rate charged for the piece, regardless of weight or destination.

If the piece cannot be sealed using the glue flap folded at the folding indentation, the piece does not qualify for the flat rate of postage. For example:

• The envelope is so fat that the only way to seal it is using force to fold the flap over and tape to keep it closed.
• The sides of the envelope burst open from the contents, or they are split and then taped to accommodate the contents.

Going Away?
Try Online Hold Mail Service

Put your mail on hold online. Whether you are on vacation or an unexpected business trip, you can rest easy knowing your mail is safely held for you at your local Post Office.

• This online service will electronically notify your local Post Office to hold your mail.
• For same-day service, online requests must be submitted by 2 a.m. CST Monday through Saturday.
• Mail can be held from 3 to 30 days.
• Delivery of your mail will resume on the date you specify.
• Online access to request this service is currently limited to certain ZIP Codes.

Visit www.usps.com for details.

Post Office Boxes
Convenience and Value!

For convenience, flexibility, security and peace of mind, nothing beats a Post Office box at your local Post Office. Apply for one at your local Post Office.

Access – You can pick up your mail at your convenience — early, late, any time the Post Office lobby is open. Since most Post Offices are located near other businesses, you may want to get a jump on the day by receiving your mail at a Post Office box near where you work.

Anonymity – Post Office boxes let you receive important mail that is for your eyes only, or to keep your personal or business mail private. Only you have the key.

Stability – If you move often, or travel a lot, and need to establish one place where you receive your mail, then a Post Office box is the answer. Your mail is there when you return.

Flexibility – Expand your company without opening new offices. Apply for Post Office boxes in cities where you do business, and pick up your mail as you travel. You don’t have to live in a community to get a Post Office box there.

Value – Boxes come in five different sizes, from 3 inches by 5 1/2 inches to 22 1/2 inches by 12 inches. Check with your local Post Office to see what sizes are available. You’ll find the prices to be reasonable, too. Based on a customer’s eligibility for carrier delivery service, a no-fee Post Office box may be available. Otherwise, the semiannual fees range from $9 to $330, depending on the box size and the Post Office.

Security – Your mail is protected, under lock and key as well as by federal statute.

Visit www.usps.com for more information, or drop by your any Post Office.

Postal Money Orders the Safe and Convenient Way to Send Money

Whether you are sending money to loved ones or paying a bill, the Postal Service can help you make the transaction fast, safe, convenient, and economical.

Postal Money Orders are a safe, easy alternative to sending cash through the mail. They can be purchased at any Post Office, or from any rural letter carrier, and are available in values up to $1,000. Some smaller communities have a Post Office but no bank, so money orders are convenient for the sender and represent instant cash for the recipient, since they can be cashed at any of 38,000 Post Offices nationwide. There is no expiration date. If your money order is lost or stolen, all you need to do is present your customer receipt to apply for a replacement.

International Money Orders are just as convenient, safe, and affordable. While the maximum value is set by the destinating country, generally they can be valued up to $700.

For more information, stop by your local Post Office or www.usps.com and see “Send Money & Payments.”