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Address ChangesAddress QualityAddressing Your MailAlternate AccessAuctionsAviation SecurityBarcodesBoard of GovernorsBook RateBound Printed MatterBoxing and PackagingBulk MailBulk Mail CentersBusiness Tools
Calculate PostageCaller ServiceCardStoreCarrier PickupCertificate of MailingCertified Mail™ ServiceChange Address OnlineClaimsClick-N-Ship®Collect on Delivery (COD)ComplaintsConfirm® Service
Confirm DeliveryCost (Postage)Customized Market MailCustomized PostageCustomsCustoms Forms OnlineDeceased Persons MailDelivery Confirmation™DineroSeguro®Direct Mail (Advertising)Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)Dropoff Locations
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e-Merchandise ReturnElectronic PostmarkEmploymentEnvelopesExpress Mail®Express Mail International®First-Class Mail®
First-Class Mail® InternationalFormsForward MailGift Card with Greeting CardFacility Access & Shipment Tracking (FAST)Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)General DeliveryGlobal Express Guaranteed®
Greeting CardsGround – Package ServicesAn Introduction to Mailing for Businesses and OrganizationsHistory (Postal)Hold Mail
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IdeasInnovationsInspection ServiceInspector General (Office of)Insurance
International Business Reply Service™International Mail ManualInternational Priority Airmail®International Resource CenterInternational Surface Air Lift™
JobsLive AnimalsLocate a Post Office™
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Mail ForwardingMail Tracking & ReportingMailboxesMailing Permit ImprintsMedia Mail®Merchandise ReturnMetersMilitary (Parcels and Publications Sent to Military Bases)Money OrdersMoversGuide®Museum (National Postal)News Releases
Office of Inspector General (OIG)Online Label RefundsOvernight/Express Mail®PackagesPackage ServicesPackage TrackingParcel BarcodesParcel Post®Parcel Return ServiceParcel Select®PassportsPassport Application ServicesPay at DeliveryPC Postage®PeriodicalsPermitsPickup OptionsPickup On Demand
PO Box ServicePost Office LocatorPostage CalculatorPostage Meters Postal Customer Council™ (National) Postal ExplorerThe Postal Store®PostalOne!®PostalOne! Postage Payment AccountPostmaster FinderPostmaster GeneralPremium PostcardsPress ReleasesPriority Mail®Priority Mail® InternationalPriority Mail SuppliesPublications
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Rapid Information Bulletin Board System (RIBBS)Rate CalculatorRedeliver MailREDRESSRegistered Mail™Remittance MailRepositionable Notes(RDI™) Residential Delivery IndicatorRestricted Delivery
Return AddressReturn ReceiptReturn Receipt for MerchandiseReturns@Ease®Ride-AlongSchedule a PickupShippingShipping Assistant™Shipping LabelSignature Confirmation™Special Handling
Stamp CollectingStamps (Buy Online)Stamps (Information)Standard Mail™Supplier DiversitySupplies (Shipping)Suspend DeliveryTrack & ConfirmTransformation PlanUSPS® Web Tools™
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Web ToolsWhite Pages
Yellow PagesZIP Code™ (Find)
Zone Charts
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Other Products and Services
For more information about these services, visit USPS Homepage, call 1·800·ASK·USPS, or stop by your Post Office.
International MailYou can mail postcards, letters, large envelopes, and packages from the United States to other countries. As with domestic mail, you can choose the best service based on speed, cost, and extra services. Customs forms are required on most international packages. To learn more about options for international mail and to calculate postage, visit Global Delivery Services or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Your Post Office can also help you send mail internationally.
Military MailThe Postal Service can deliver your letters and packages to more than 300 military Post Offices overseas. Many services available for domestic mail are also available for military mail. There may be restrictions on the size or content of your mail. Visit the domestic rate calculator or call 1·800·ASK·USPS for details.
Money OrdersMoney orders are a safe alternative to sending cash through the mail. A lost or stolen money order can be replaced. You can buy money orders at all Post Offices in amounts up to $1,000 each. Most money orders cost $1.05-$1.50.
NetPost® Personal ServicesYou can combine the ease and speed of the Internet with the power of the mail. Use NetPost Services to create and send postcards, letters, greeting cards, gift cards, and newsletters conveniently from your home computer. Simply upload your documents or choose a design from the gallery, input one or more addresses, pay with a credit card, and the Postal Service does the rest. Everyone loves to receive mail, and this is an easy way to keep in touch. NetPost Services are available at www.usps.com.
PassportsSome Post Offices offer passport application and renewal services. For more information about passport application forms and locations, call 1·800·ASK·USPS or see Passport Application Information.
Paying for MerchandiseFor a small fee, you can send merchandise COD (Collect on Delivery) and have the Postal Service collect payment from the recipient and send it to you.
PC Postage™Enjoy the convenience of printing postage directly from your home or office using PC Postage products. Postal Service-approved providers offer hardware and software products that allow you to purchase and print postage using a computer and the internet. For more information, see Postage Options.
Post Office™ BoxesA Post Office box is a great way to receive mail where and when it's most convenient for you. You can rent a P.O. box at most Post Offices. Prices vary depending on the location of the Post Office and the P.O. box size.
Stamp CollectingIf you are interested in stamp collecting or the USA Philatelic Catalogue, visit USPS Homepage or call 1·800·STAMP24. Stamp products make great gifts.
For more information about these services, visit USPS Homepage, call 1·800·ASK·USPS, or stop by your Post Office.
International MailYou can mail postcards, letters, large envelopes, and packages from the United States to other countries. As with domestic mail, you can choose the best service based on speed, cost, and extra services. Customs forms are required on most international packages. To learn more about options for international mail and to calculate postage, visit Global Delivery Services or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Your Post Office can also help you send mail internationally.
Military MailThe Postal Service can deliver your letters and packages to more than 300 military Post Offices overseas. Many services available for domestic mail are also available for military mail. There may be restrictions on the size or content of your mail. Visit the domestic rate calculator or call 1·800·ASK·USPS for details.
Money OrdersMoney orders are a safe alternative to sending cash through the mail. A lost or stolen money order can be replaced. You can buy money orders at all Post Offices in amounts up to $1,000 each. Most money orders cost $1.05-$1.50.
NetPost® Personal ServicesYou can combine the ease and speed of the Internet with the power of the mail. Use NetPost Services to create and send postcards, letters, greeting cards, gift cards, and newsletters conveniently from your home computer. Simply upload your documents or choose a design from the gallery, input one or more addresses, pay with a credit card, and the Postal Service does the rest. Everyone loves to receive mail, and this is an easy way to keep in touch. NetPost Services are available at www.usps.com.
PassportsSome Post Offices offer passport application and renewal services. For more information about passport application forms and locations, call 1·800·ASK·USPS or see Passport Application Information.
Paying for MerchandiseFor a small fee, you can send merchandise COD (Collect on Delivery) and have the Postal Service collect payment from the recipient and send it to you.
PC Postage™Enjoy the convenience of printing postage directly from your home or office using PC Postage products. Postal Service-approved providers offer hardware and software products that allow you to purchase and print postage using a computer and the internet. For more information, see Postage Options.
Post Office™ BoxesA Post Office box is a great way to receive mail where and when it's most convenient for you. You can rent a P.O. box at most Post Offices. Prices vary depending on the location of the Post Office and the P.O. box size.
Stamp CollectingIf you are interested in stamp collecting or the USA Philatelic Catalogue, visit USPS Homepage or call 1·800·STAMP24. Stamp products make great gifts.
Sending and Receiving Mail
Here are some useful mailing hints for senders and recipients.
Sending MailYou can send mail by:
Dropping it into a blue collection box.
Leaving it in your home mailbox.
Taking it to a Post Office.
Priority Mail and International Mail packages that weigh one pound or more that are affixed with postage stamps must be handed to your letter carrier or to a Retail associate at a Post Office. Many locations are open late on Saturday. Some locations are open on Sunday.
Scheduling a PickupWhether it's Carrier Pickup™ or time-specific Pickup On Demand Service®, USPS Pickup Options make shipping your packages quick and convenient.
Carrier Pickup is the easy, convenient way to send packages. Just submit your request online and have your Priority Mail, Express Mail or International package, with postage affixed, ready before your carrier arrives. It’s that simple!
Pickup On Demand Service allows you to schedule time-specific pickups within a 2-hour time frame. A letter carrier will make a special trip to your home for a fee of $14.25, to pick up Priority Mail, Express Mail, or Parcel Post packages that have postage affixed. There is no additional charge for picking up multiple pieces of mail. Visit www.usps.com/pickup or call 1-800-222-1811 for additional information or to schedule a pickup.
Holding MailIf you plan to be out of town on business or vacation, you may want to temporarily stop delivery of your mail. To have the Postal Service hold your mail up to 30 days, visit USPS Homepage, call 1·800·ASK·USPS, or fill out a "Hold Mail" form at the Post Office. When you return, you can either pick up your mail from the Post Office or have it delivered to your home.
Change of Address and Mail ForwardingBefore you move, get a copy of the Mover’s Guide from your Post Office and return the completed form to your letter carrier or your Post Office. The Mover’s Guide includes post- cards to help you contact banks, utility companies, and magazine publishers with your new address. You can also save a trip to the Post Office by visiting www.usps.com to change your address online. Fast and easy—takes less than five minutes.
Notify your Post Office at least one month before you move to ensure uninterrupted mail service. Express Mail, Priority Mail, and First-Class Mail will be forwarded at no charge for one year. Magazines and newspapers will be forwarded for 60 days.
Premium Forwarding Service Going away for a while? Have all your mail sent to you at your temporary location. Premium Forwarding Service (PFS) is a domestic service that forwards ALL of your mail from your permanent address to a temporary address.
Your mail will be forwarded to you on a weekly basis for a minimum of two weeks up to one year. You do not miss important mail while you are away—all your mail reaches you. One flat fee for each weekly Priority Mail shipment plus an application fee.
If you are a snowbird, college student, executive, individual with an extended family care situation, or away on extended vacation, all are possible candidates for Premium Forwarding Service.
Never again miss a mail delivery when you’re away from home. It is easy to enroll in Premium Forwarding Service. Visit your local Post Office to enroll.
Signing for MailSome pieces of mail require a signature from the recipient at the time of delivery. This includes items sent with Express Mail, Certified Mail, COD, Insured Mail (over $200), Registered Mail, Return Receipt, and Signature Confirmation.
Recipient ResponsibilitiesWhen you sign for a piece of mail, you acknowledge delivery. The Postal Service's liability ends when you sign for the mail. You may ask the letter carrier for the sender's name and address before you accept the mail. You may not open the mail, but you may look at it as long as the letter carrier is holding it before you choose to sign for it.
Delivery If Recipient Is Not HomeIf no one is home when the letter carrier attempts delivery, the letter carrier will leave a notice and return the item to the Post Office. Check the notice for specific instructions or call 1·800·222·1811 to have the mail redelivered. If the sender has not asked for Restricted Delivery, the carrier may deliver the mail to anyone who receives mail at that address.
Confirming DeliveryVisit Track and Confirm or call 1·800·222·1811 to get delivery information on Express Mail and mail with extra services. You will need the item number from your mailing receipt or label.
Restricting DeliveryRestricted Delivery service ensures that only a specified person (or the person's authorized agent) will receive a piece of mail. This service costs $4.10. Restricted Delivery is available only if you also purchase Certified Mail, Insured Mail (for more than $200 coverage), COD, or Registered Mail.
Filing a ClaimYou can file a claim for compensation for loss or damage of Insured Mail, Registered Mail, and Express Mail. Take the damaged item and proof of its value along with the original box and packaging materials and the original mailing receipt to any Post Office. A clerk will help you file your claim.
Perishable ItemsSome items require special packaging or special permission to be mailed. Call 1·800·ASK·USPS or visit your Post Office to find out how to mail these items:
Live animals
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Plants
Keep the Mail Safe: Hazardous and Restricted MaterialsSome things cannot be mailed or can be mailed only in small quantities for safety and legal reasons. Some items have restrictions on how they can be mailed, including:
Aerosol cans
Firearms
Flammable materials
Liquids and powders
Lottery Tickets
Poisons
Some items, however, are not permitted in the mail, including:
Alcoholic beverages
Ammunition
Drug paraphernalia
Fireworks and other explosives
Call 1·800·ASK·USPS or visit your Post Office if you have questions about the item you want to mail.
Here are some useful mailing hints for senders and recipients.
Sending MailYou can send mail by:
Dropping it into a blue collection box.
Leaving it in your home mailbox.
Taking it to a Post Office.
Priority Mail and International Mail packages that weigh one pound or more that are affixed with postage stamps must be handed to your letter carrier or to a Retail associate at a Post Office. Many locations are open late on Saturday. Some locations are open on Sunday.
Scheduling a PickupWhether it's Carrier Pickup™ or time-specific Pickup On Demand Service®, USPS Pickup Options make shipping your packages quick and convenient.
Carrier Pickup is the easy, convenient way to send packages. Just submit your request online and have your Priority Mail, Express Mail or International package, with postage affixed, ready before your carrier arrives. It’s that simple!
Pickup On Demand Service allows you to schedule time-specific pickups within a 2-hour time frame. A letter carrier will make a special trip to your home for a fee of $14.25, to pick up Priority Mail, Express Mail, or Parcel Post packages that have postage affixed. There is no additional charge for picking up multiple pieces of mail. Visit www.usps.com/pickup or call 1-800-222-1811 for additional information or to schedule a pickup.
Holding MailIf you plan to be out of town on business or vacation, you may want to temporarily stop delivery of your mail. To have the Postal Service hold your mail up to 30 days, visit USPS Homepage, call 1·800·ASK·USPS, or fill out a "Hold Mail" form at the Post Office. When you return, you can either pick up your mail from the Post Office or have it delivered to your home.
Change of Address and Mail ForwardingBefore you move, get a copy of the Mover’s Guide from your Post Office and return the completed form to your letter carrier or your Post Office. The Mover’s Guide includes post- cards to help you contact banks, utility companies, and magazine publishers with your new address. You can also save a trip to the Post Office by visiting www.usps.com to change your address online. Fast and easy—takes less than five minutes.
Notify your Post Office at least one month before you move to ensure uninterrupted mail service. Express Mail, Priority Mail, and First-Class Mail will be forwarded at no charge for one year. Magazines and newspapers will be forwarded for 60 days.
Premium Forwarding Service Going away for a while? Have all your mail sent to you at your temporary location. Premium Forwarding Service (PFS) is a domestic service that forwards ALL of your mail from your permanent address to a temporary address.
Your mail will be forwarded to you on a weekly basis for a minimum of two weeks up to one year. You do not miss important mail while you are away—all your mail reaches you. One flat fee for each weekly Priority Mail shipment plus an application fee.
If you are a snowbird, college student, executive, individual with an extended family care situation, or away on extended vacation, all are possible candidates for Premium Forwarding Service.
Never again miss a mail delivery when you’re away from home. It is easy to enroll in Premium Forwarding Service. Visit your local Post Office to enroll.
Signing for MailSome pieces of mail require a signature from the recipient at the time of delivery. This includes items sent with Express Mail, Certified Mail, COD, Insured Mail (over $200), Registered Mail, Return Receipt, and Signature Confirmation.
Recipient ResponsibilitiesWhen you sign for a piece of mail, you acknowledge delivery. The Postal Service's liability ends when you sign for the mail. You may ask the letter carrier for the sender's name and address before you accept the mail. You may not open the mail, but you may look at it as long as the letter carrier is holding it before you choose to sign for it.
Delivery If Recipient Is Not HomeIf no one is home when the letter carrier attempts delivery, the letter carrier will leave a notice and return the item to the Post Office. Check the notice for specific instructions or call 1·800·222·1811 to have the mail redelivered. If the sender has not asked for Restricted Delivery, the carrier may deliver the mail to anyone who receives mail at that address.
Confirming DeliveryVisit Track and Confirm or call 1·800·222·1811 to get delivery information on Express Mail and mail with extra services. You will need the item number from your mailing receipt or label.
Restricting DeliveryRestricted Delivery service ensures that only a specified person (or the person's authorized agent) will receive a piece of mail. This service costs $4.10. Restricted Delivery is available only if you also purchase Certified Mail, Insured Mail (for more than $200 coverage), COD, or Registered Mail.
Filing a ClaimYou can file a claim for compensation for loss or damage of Insured Mail, Registered Mail, and Express Mail. Take the damaged item and proof of its value along with the original box and packaging materials and the original mailing receipt to any Post Office. A clerk will help you file your claim.
Perishable ItemsSome items require special packaging or special permission to be mailed. Call 1·800·ASK·USPS or visit your Post Office to find out how to mail these items:
Live animals
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Plants
Keep the Mail Safe: Hazardous and Restricted MaterialsSome things cannot be mailed or can be mailed only in small quantities for safety and legal reasons. Some items have restrictions on how they can be mailed, including:
Aerosol cans
Firearms
Flammable materials
Liquids and powders
Lottery Tickets
Poisons
Some items, however, are not permitted in the mail, including:
Alcoholic beverages
Ammunition
Drug paraphernalia
Fireworks and other explosives
Call 1·800·ASK·USPS or visit your Post Office if you have questions about the item you want to mail.
Preparing Packages
Careful preparation of your package helps to ensure safe delivery.
The BoxChoose a box with enough room for cushioning material around the contents. Sturdy paperboard or corrugated fiberboard boxes are best for weights up to 10 pounds. If you are reusing a box, totally remove or obliterate all previous labels and markings with heavy black marker.
Where to Find BoxesYou can purchase boxes and tubes of various sizes at most Post Offices. Express Mail and Priority Mail boxes are available free at the Post Office for items sent using either of these services. While you are not required to use the free packaging for these services, you must use the address label provided by the Post Office for Express Mail. To order Express Mail or Priority Mail boxes at no extra charge, call 1·800·222·1811 or visit www.usps.com and click on 'Supplies' under 'Shipping Tools'.
CushioningPlace the cushioning all around your item or items. You can use newspaper, “foam peanuts," or shredded paper. Close and shake the box to see if you have enough cushioning. If you hear items shifting, add more cushioning.
Placing an extra address label with the delivery and return addresses inside the package will ensure that the item can be delivered in case the outside label becomes damaged or falls off.
Mailing Fragile ItemsUse foamed plastic or padding to protect your items, placing the cushioning inside hollow items as well. Mark the package "Fragile" or mark "Perishable" on packages that contain food or other items that can spoil. Careful packaging is the best way to safeguard your valuable items against damage.
Mailing Heavy ItemsIf you are mailing a very heavy or very dense item, start with a sturdy box, pack the contents securely with a strong material for bracing to prevent shifting, and tape all the edges with reinforced tape. Packages heavier than 70 pounds cannot be mailed.
SealingTape the opening of your box and reinforce all seams with 2-inch-wide tape. Use clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape, or paper tape. Do not use cord, string, twine, masking or cellophane tape.
Return AddressPrint or type your address in the upper left corner on the same side of the package as the delivery address.
Extra ServicesPlace labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the delivery address.
PostageUse stamps, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. Use stamps, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage rates and purchase postage online.
Delivery AddressPrint or type the delivery address parallel to the longest side of the package. Print or type clearly with a pen or permanent marker so that your address is legible from an arm's length away. Do not use commas or periods.
Confirmation ServicesLabels for Delivery Confirmation or Signature Confirmation are placed to the left of the address label.
City, State, and ZIP CodeTo find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, see the ZIP Code Lookup tool or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Using the correct ZIP Code helps to direct your mail more efficiently and accurately.
Drop OffIf your package weighs less than 1 pound and you have affixed the correct postage, you can drop it into a blue collection box. If your package weighs 1 pound or more, and you have affixed postage stamps, you must hand it to your letter carrier or take it to the Post Office.
Careful preparation of your package helps to ensure safe delivery.
The BoxChoose a box with enough room for cushioning material around the contents. Sturdy paperboard or corrugated fiberboard boxes are best for weights up to 10 pounds. If you are reusing a box, totally remove or obliterate all previous labels and markings with heavy black marker.
Where to Find BoxesYou can purchase boxes and tubes of various sizes at most Post Offices. Express Mail and Priority Mail boxes are available free at the Post Office for items sent using either of these services. While you are not required to use the free packaging for these services, you must use the address label provided by the Post Office for Express Mail. To order Express Mail or Priority Mail boxes at no extra charge, call 1·800·222·1811 or visit www.usps.com and click on 'Supplies' under 'Shipping Tools'.
CushioningPlace the cushioning all around your item or items. You can use newspaper, “foam peanuts," or shredded paper. Close and shake the box to see if you have enough cushioning. If you hear items shifting, add more cushioning.
Placing an extra address label with the delivery and return addresses inside the package will ensure that the item can be delivered in case the outside label becomes damaged or falls off.
Mailing Fragile ItemsUse foamed plastic or padding to protect your items, placing the cushioning inside hollow items as well. Mark the package "Fragile" or mark "Perishable" on packages that contain food or other items that can spoil. Careful packaging is the best way to safeguard your valuable items against damage.
Mailing Heavy ItemsIf you are mailing a very heavy or very dense item, start with a sturdy box, pack the contents securely with a strong material for bracing to prevent shifting, and tape all the edges with reinforced tape. Packages heavier than 70 pounds cannot be mailed.
SealingTape the opening of your box and reinforce all seams with 2-inch-wide tape. Use clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape, or paper tape. Do not use cord, string, twine, masking or cellophane tape.
Return AddressPrint or type your address in the upper left corner on the same side of the package as the delivery address.
Extra ServicesPlace labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the delivery address.
PostageUse stamps, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. Use stamps, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage rates and purchase postage online.
Delivery AddressPrint or type the delivery address parallel to the longest side of the package. Print or type clearly with a pen or permanent marker so that your address is legible from an arm's length away. Do not use commas or periods.
Confirmation ServicesLabels for Delivery Confirmation or Signature Confirmation are placed to the left of the address label.
City, State, and ZIP CodeTo find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, see the ZIP Code Lookup tool or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Using the correct ZIP Code helps to direct your mail more efficiently and accurately.
Drop OffIf your package weighs less than 1 pound and you have affixed the correct postage, you can drop it into a blue collection box. If your package weighs 1 pound or more, and you have affixed postage stamps, you must hand it to your letter carrier or take it to the Post Office.
Addressing Your Mail
The accuracy of the address affects the speed and handling of your mail.
Return AddressPrint or type your address in the upper left corner on the front of the envelope.
Extra ServicesPlace labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the postage.
PostageUse a stamp, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage rates online.
Street AddressUse a Post Office box or street address, but not both. If the address also has a directional (for instance, "NW " for Northwest), be sure to use it. There may be more than one Main Street.
Apartment or Suite NumberThe correct apartment or suite number helps to ensure delivery to the right location.
City, State, and ZIP CodeTo find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, see the ZIP Code Lookup tool or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Using the correct ZIP Code helps to direct your mail more efficiently and accurately.
Envelopes Letters, bills, greeting cards, and other documents can be sent in standard white, manila, or recycled paper envelopes. Items needing extra protection can be sent in bubble-lined, padded paper, or waterproof envelopes. These envelopes, along with stationery and prepaid First-Class Mail postcards and envelopes, can be purchased at the Post Office.
Express Mail and Priority Mail envelopes are available at your Post Office or visit www.usps.com for items sent using either of these services. You must use the USPS-provided address label for Express Mail.
Online Shipping Labels Click-N-Ship™ lets you print a shipping label—with or without postage—for Express Mail and Priority Mail service. Delivery Confirmation is provided for all domestic Priority Mail packages sent with Click-N-Ship postage at no additional cost. Most international postage may be purchased online for Global Express Guaranteed, Express Mail International, and Priority Mail International. You will receive a 10% online discount on Global Express Guaranteed, 8% on Express Mail International and 5% on Priority Mail International shipments when printing and paying for postage using Click-N-Ship! You can arrange for a pickup online or give your prepaid package to your letter carrier, drop it in a nearby blue collection box, or take it to the Post Office.
AddressingPlacementPrint the delivery and return addresses on the same side of your envelope or card. The addresses should be written parallel to the longest side.
Addressing LettersPrint or type clearly with a pen or permanent marker so the address is legible from an arm's length away. Do not use commas or periods.
Return AddressA return address is required on most mail.
Express Mail®For Express Mail, you must use the address labels provided by the Post Office.
Military MailMilitary addresses must show the full name with middle name or initial, and the PSC number, unit number, or ship name. Replace the city name with "APO " or "FPO," and the state with "AA," "AE," or "AP," and use a special ZIP Code.
AbbreviationsA list of commonly used state, street, and other abbreviations is available online.
The accuracy of the address affects the speed and handling of your mail.
Return AddressPrint or type your address in the upper left corner on the front of the envelope.
Extra ServicesPlace labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the postage.
PostageUse a stamp, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage rates online.
Street AddressUse a Post Office box or street address, but not both. If the address also has a directional (for instance, "NW " for Northwest), be sure to use it. There may be more than one Main Street.
Apartment or Suite NumberThe correct apartment or suite number helps to ensure delivery to the right location.
City, State, and ZIP CodeTo find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, see the ZIP Code Lookup tool or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Using the correct ZIP Code helps to direct your mail more efficiently and accurately.
Envelopes Letters, bills, greeting cards, and other documents can be sent in standard white, manila, or recycled paper envelopes. Items needing extra protection can be sent in bubble-lined, padded paper, or waterproof envelopes. These envelopes, along with stationery and prepaid First-Class Mail postcards and envelopes, can be purchased at the Post Office.
Express Mail and Priority Mail envelopes are available at your Post Office or visit www.usps.com for items sent using either of these services. You must use the USPS-provided address label for Express Mail.
Online Shipping Labels Click-N-Ship™ lets you print a shipping label—with or without postage—for Express Mail and Priority Mail service. Delivery Confirmation is provided for all domestic Priority Mail packages sent with Click-N-Ship postage at no additional cost. Most international postage may be purchased online for Global Express Guaranteed, Express Mail International, and Priority Mail International. You will receive a 10% online discount on Global Express Guaranteed, 8% on Express Mail International and 5% on Priority Mail International shipments when printing and paying for postage using Click-N-Ship! You can arrange for a pickup online or give your prepaid package to your letter carrier, drop it in a nearby blue collection box, or take it to the Post Office.
AddressingPlacementPrint the delivery and return addresses on the same side of your envelope or card. The addresses should be written parallel to the longest side.
Addressing LettersPrint or type clearly with a pen or permanent marker so the address is legible from an arm's length away. Do not use commas or periods.
Return AddressA return address is required on most mail.
Express Mail®For Express Mail, you must use the address labels provided by the Post Office.
Military MailMilitary addresses must show the full name with middle name or initial, and the PSC number, unit number, or ship name. Replace the city name with "APO " or "FPO," and the state with "AA," "AE," or "AP," and use a special ZIP Code.
AbbreviationsA list of commonly used state, street, and other abbreviations is available online.
Adding Extra Service
Extra services can provide additional protection and peace of mind.
MAILSERVICE
PROOFOF MAILING
PROTECTIONIN TRANSIT
CONFIRMATIONAT DELIVERY
Express Mail
Receipt provided at time of mailing
Insured Mail ($100 coverage included, more can be added)
Date and time of delivery providedSignature of receipt available upon request
Priority Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured MailRegistered Mail
Certified MailDelivery ConfirmationSignature ConfirmationRegistered Mail
First-Class Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured MailRegistered Mail
Certified MailDelivery Confirmation* Signature Confirmation*Registered Mail
Parcel PostMedia Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured Mail
Delivery Confirmation*Signature Confirmation*
* For packages only.Forms and labels for extra services are available in your Post Office lobby or from your rural letter carrier.Most extra services provide proof of mailing.
Certificate of MailingProvides evidence of mailing. $1.05
Certified Mail»Provides proof of mailing at time of mailing and the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery. $2.65 Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. Delivery information is available by hard copy or online. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Insured MailProvides coverage against loss or damage up to $5,000.Fee based on value of item. Starts at $1.65For items insured for more than $200, Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Registered Mail»Provides maximum security. Includes proof of mailing at time of mailing and the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery.Insurance can be added up to $25,000. Fee based on value of item. Starts at $9.50 Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Delivery Confirmation»Provides the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery.Free when you print Priority Mail postage from www.usps.com. $0.65-$0.75
Signature Confirmation»Provides the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery and the name of the person who signed for the item. You can request a printed copy of the signature. $2.10 $1.75 when you print Priority Mail postage from www.usps.com.
Return Receipt Provides a postcard or electronic notification with the date of delivery and recipient signature.
Restricted Delivery Restricted Delivery confirms that only a specified person, or authorized agent, will receive a piece of mail. This service costs $4.10 and is available only if you also purchase Certified Mail, Insured Mail (over $200), COD, or Registered Mail.
Most indemnity claims for Insured, COD, Registered Mail, or Express Mail can be filed at any Post Office or online. For more information go to your local Post Office or visit www.usps.com.
Many of these extra services are available for international mail.
Delivery information is available online or by calling 1·800·222·1811.
Extra services can provide additional protection and peace of mind.
MAILSERVICE
PROOFOF MAILING
PROTECTIONIN TRANSIT
CONFIRMATIONAT DELIVERY
Express Mail
Receipt provided at time of mailing
Insured Mail ($100 coverage included, more can be added)
Date and time of delivery providedSignature of receipt available upon request
Priority Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured MailRegistered Mail
Certified MailDelivery ConfirmationSignature ConfirmationRegistered Mail
First-Class Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured MailRegistered Mail
Certified MailDelivery Confirmation* Signature Confirmation*Registered Mail
Parcel PostMedia Mail
Certificate of Mailing
Insured Mail
Delivery Confirmation*Signature Confirmation*
* For packages only.Forms and labels for extra services are available in your Post Office lobby or from your rural letter carrier.Most extra services provide proof of mailing.
Certificate of MailingProvides evidence of mailing. $1.05
Certified Mail»Provides proof of mailing at time of mailing and the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery. $2.65 Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. Delivery information is available by hard copy or online. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Insured MailProvides coverage against loss or damage up to $5,000.Fee based on value of item. Starts at $1.65For items insured for more than $200, Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Registered Mail»Provides maximum security. Includes proof of mailing at time of mailing and the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery.Insurance can be added up to $25,000. Fee based on value of item. Starts at $9.50 Return Receipt can be added to confirm delivery. $2.15 extra or $0.85
Delivery Confirmation»Provides the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery.Free when you print Priority Mail postage from www.usps.com. $0.65-$0.75
Signature Confirmation»Provides the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery and the name of the person who signed for the item. You can request a printed copy of the signature. $2.10 $1.75 when you print Priority Mail postage from www.usps.com.
Return Receipt Provides a postcard or electronic notification with the date of delivery and recipient signature.
Restricted Delivery Restricted Delivery confirms that only a specified person, or authorized agent, will receive a piece of mail. This service costs $4.10 and is available only if you also purchase Certified Mail, Insured Mail (over $200), COD, or Registered Mail.
Most indemnity claims for Insured, COD, Registered Mail, or Express Mail can be filed at any Post Office or online. For more information go to your local Post Office or visit www.usps.com.
Many of these extra services are available for international mail.
Delivery information is available online or by calling 1·800·222·1811.
Several mailing services are available to fit your needs.
Shape + Speed + Cost = Service
SHAPE
SPEED
COST
SERVICE
70 lbs or less
1-2 daysmoney-back guarantee
$$$based on weight
Express Mail
70 lbs or less
2-3 dayson average
$$based on weight, shape, anddistance
Priority Mail
13 oz or less
3.5 oz or less
1-3 days
$based on weight and shape
First-Class Mail
70 lbs or less
2-9 days*
$based on weight and distance
Parcel Post
70 lbs or less
2-9 days*
$based on weight
Media Mail
* Excluding Alaska and Hawaii.
Express Mail®Letters, large or thick envelopes, tubes, and packages containing mailable items can be sent using Express Mail. This money-back guaranteed service includes tracking and insurance up to $100. Additional insurance up to $5,000 may be purchased for merchandise. Delivery to most destinations is available 365 days a year, with no extra charge for Saturday, Sunday, and holiday delivery. Express Mail envelopes and boxes are available at the Post Office™.
Priority Mail®Large or thick envelopes, tubes, and packages containing mailable items can be sent using Priority Mail. This service is typically used to send documents, gifts, and merchandise. Priority Mail envelopes and boxes are available at the Post Office™.
First-Class Mail®Postcards, letters, large envelopes, and small packages can be sent using First-Class Mail. This service is typically used for personal and business correspondence and bills.
Parcel Post®Small and large packages, thick envelopes, and tubes containing gifts and merchandise can be sent using Parcel Post.
Media Mail™Small and large packages and thick envelopes can be sent using Media Mail. Contents are limited to books, manuscripts, sound recordings, recorded videotapes, and computer-readable media (not blank). Informally called "Book Rate," Media Mail cannot contain advertising, except eligible books may contain incidental announcements of books. Media Mail is usually less expensive than Parcel Post.
Speed depends on distance. Mail takes longer to travel across the country than to travel across town.
Flat-Rate Envelopes let you send your document for one low price regardless how much the item weighs. Flat-rate envelopes are available for Express Mail at $16.25 and Priority Mail at $4.60. Purchase flat-rate stamps in advance to save time when you’re ready to mail.
Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes are $8.95 to any U.S. destination regardless of the actual weight of the piece. They are available in two convenient sizes.
Calculate Postage for the shape, weight, and destination of your mail online or by calling 1·800·ASK·USPS®.
Shape + Speed + Cost = Service
SHAPE
SPEED
COST
SERVICE
70 lbs or less
1-2 daysmoney-back guarantee
$$$based on weight
Express Mail
70 lbs or less
2-3 dayson average
$$based on weight, shape, anddistance
Priority Mail
13 oz or less
3.5 oz or less
1-3 days
$based on weight and shape
First-Class Mail
70 lbs or less
2-9 days*
$based on weight and distance
Parcel Post
70 lbs or less
2-9 days*
$based on weight
Media Mail
* Excluding Alaska and Hawaii.
Express Mail®Letters, large or thick envelopes, tubes, and packages containing mailable items can be sent using Express Mail. This money-back guaranteed service includes tracking and insurance up to $100. Additional insurance up to $5,000 may be purchased for merchandise. Delivery to most destinations is available 365 days a year, with no extra charge for Saturday, Sunday, and holiday delivery. Express Mail envelopes and boxes are available at the Post Office™.
Priority Mail®Large or thick envelopes, tubes, and packages containing mailable items can be sent using Priority Mail. This service is typically used to send documents, gifts, and merchandise. Priority Mail envelopes and boxes are available at the Post Office™.
First-Class Mail®Postcards, letters, large envelopes, and small packages can be sent using First-Class Mail. This service is typically used for personal and business correspondence and bills.
Parcel Post®Small and large packages, thick envelopes, and tubes containing gifts and merchandise can be sent using Parcel Post.
Media Mail™Small and large packages and thick envelopes can be sent using Media Mail. Contents are limited to books, manuscripts, sound recordings, recorded videotapes, and computer-readable media (not blank). Informally called "Book Rate," Media Mail cannot contain advertising, except eligible books may contain incidental announcements of books. Media Mail is usually less expensive than Parcel Post.
Speed depends on distance. Mail takes longer to travel across the country than to travel across town.
Flat-Rate Envelopes let you send your document for one low price regardless how much the item weighs. Flat-rate envelopes are available for Express Mail at $16.25 and Priority Mail at $4.60. Purchase flat-rate stamps in advance to save time when you’re ready to mail.
Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes are $8.95 to any U.S. destination regardless of the actual weight of the piece. They are available in two convenient sizes.
Calculate Postage for the shape, weight, and destination of your mail online or by calling 1·800·ASK·USPS®.
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