USPS Priority Mail and First-Class Mail can be cost-effective shipping methods.
Everybody has shipping needs, especially if you sell on an auction website or run a small home-based business. For domestic packages, USPS Priority Mail and First-Class Mail can be cost-effective shipping methods.
Priority Mail
Typically, Priority Mail takes two days for domestic packages and letters. The U.S. Postal Service offers free Priority Mail supplies. There is a flat-rate option in multiple predetermined package sizes, even to APO/FPO addresses.
First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail takes three days on average and three to five days to Alaska and Hawaii. You can ship only postcards, envelopes or packages weighting 13 oz. or less via First-Class Mail.
Busiest Times
Anticipate slight delays during December, the busiest shipping time of the year. Plan your shipment ahead of time or upgrade to Express Mail for shipping time-sensitive material during the holiday season.
Comparison
First-Class Mail can be just as fast as Priority Mail during normal times of the year. Packages tend to arrive faster going from city to city rather than to rural areas.
Advantages of Priority Mail
USPS Priority Mail supplies are designed to conform to USPS guidelines, so utilize them to eliminate packaging hassles. Take advantage of the online discount price by purchasing and printing shipping labels at USPS.com. Shipping labels that can be scanned expedite the handling process.
Other Shipping Tips
When writing your recipient's address, include the additional four digits after the ZIP code to help expedite delivery. Shorten the package's route by dropping off your prepaid package directly at the post office instead of scheduling a pickup.
Tags: Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Mail First-Class, Mail First-Class Mail, USPS Priority, USPS Priority Mail