What are the differences between First Class and Standard postage? Delivery time, processing method and cost.
Delivery Time
When mailing typed letters or yellow letters in hand addressed envelopes, First Class mail will typically get the mail piece delivered within 5 business days. With Standard postage delivery can take anywhere from 3 to 30 days. The map below shows the post office guidelines for delivery on standard postage. The yellow areas on the map generally take between 7 and 26 days for letters to arrive.
Processing Method
Standard postage is a form of bulk mail, meaning there are post office requirements for the size and weight of each mail piece. The post office also has guidelines for minimum quantities that must be met in order to mail using Standard postage, and letters mailed with Standard postage are not postmarked. Letters mailed with First Class postage can be mailed one at a time and will be postmarked. If you choose First Class postage you can have your yellow letters prepared and shipped to you so you can mail them from your local postmark.
Cost
First Class postage is 20¢ more per unit than Standard postage. If you have a time sensitive list it may make sense to spend the extra money on First Class postage, but for a list that remains fairly stable from one month to the next Standard postage may be more cost effective.
Watch the short video below for more information on the differences between mailing yellow letters with First Class and Standard postage.
