The main difference between standard mail and first-class mail is first-class provides a much faster delivery. It also gives you options for mail forwarding and returns on mail with outdated addresses. A key advantage to standard mail is that it costs less, and the price is consistent regardless of where the mail is sent throughout the United States. A business can save money using standard mail for its direct mail campaigns.
Standard Mail vs. First Class Mail
Both standard and first-class mail can be defined by a set of U.S. Postal Service requirements. One of the main characteristics that distinguish the two different services is standard mail ranges from ads to letters to merchandise that aren't confidential. In contrast, first-class mail is often used for more private communications.
Standard mail doesn't have to be a certain weight overall, but there are maximum weights for flats and letters. Flats may not exceed 16 ounces, and letters may not exceed 3.5 ounces. A business can save up to 68 percent using standard mail, also known as marketing mail.
One of the limitations of standard mail is that it comes with no guaranteed delivery time, making it inappropriate for urgent deliveries. The mail usually takes under five business days locally but sending mail across the nation can take 13 days. The postal service processes the mail on a time available basis. That means if your marketing materials have a time-sensitive nature, you should consider first-class alternatives.
First-class mail also has no minimum weight requirement. The maximum weight for flats is 13 ounces. It becomes a priority mail when the weight exceeds this amount. The maximum weight for letters is 4 ounces. The minimum quantity for comingling prices is 500 units, whereas for standard mail it's 200 pieces.
One drawback to first-class is that the service doesn't provide free automatic returns and mail forwarding, whereas standard or marketing mail does. One option to counter this is to pay a fee to have it forwarded with an Ancillary Service Endorsement. The most efficient solution is to keep address lists updated.
Non-profit Standard Mail
An option for non-profit organizations is to use Non-profit Standard mail, which can cut costs up to 70 percent compared with first class. This service only allows for domestic mail and mirrors the delivery times of standard mail. To be eligible for this service, a non-profit organization must first apply to the U.S. Postal Service and then be approved.
Other Delivery Options
Each organization must decide the best solution for delivery services, whether it involves the post office or a courier service. Some companies find that choosing a reputable local courier can lead to faster and more reliable on-time deliveries, especially during the holiday season. Working with an experienced courier service can help you sleep better at night, knowing your deliveries are handled by specialists who build their reputations on reliability and speedy deliveries, as well as personalized, customized solutions.
Knowing the differences between first-class and standard mail can help a business save money and get packages to the recipients promptly. Are you looking for delivery services for the delivery of your goods? Choose MDS. Located in Southern California, we're your custom courier & mail delivery service experts for all your mail and delivery needs in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Irvine, and Orange County.
Contact us for more information today.
