Have questions about the 2017 USPS Postage Rate changes? We have answers!
When did the new USPS rates start?
The 2017 USPS postage rate increase went into effect on Sunday, January 22, 2017.
Are Forever Stamps purchased before January 22, 2017 still valid?
Yes, Forever Stamps purchased from the Post Office (or another location) remain valid. You can still use Forever Stamps to mail a one-ounce First-Class Mail letter, even if purchased before January 22.
Can I buy the $0.46 Metered Rate postage stamps at the Post Office?
No, the Metered Rate $0.46 postage stamps can only be printed using an approved PC Postage/online postage vendor such as Stamps.com or through a postage meter. The Metered Rate $0.46 stamps cannot be purchased at the Post Office. Learn more about saving with Metered Mail rates here: https://blog.stamps.com/2017/02/02/save-3-cents-printing-first-class-mail-letters-online/
How do I get Commercial Base discounts for printing postage online?
You automatically qualify for Commercial Base pricing if you print shipping labels using Stamps.com (or any online postage vendor). These rates are automatically calculated when you print postage.
Did online postage rates for any international mail classes increase for 2017?
There is no rate increase for Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International or First Class Package International Service in 2017, if you buy postage online using Stamps.com (or any online postage vendor).
Can anyone use Regional Rate Boxes or are they only for large quantity shippers?
Anyone can ship using Regional Rate Boxes, regardless of the number of packages shipped. If you buy postage for a Regional Rate Box at the Post Office, you will have to pay and additional $2.25 for Zones 1-4 and $1.00 for Zones 5-9.
Did online postage rates for Parcel Select Ground decrease?
Yes, for certain weight and zone combinations, the price for Parcel Select Ground will be lower than what it was in 2016. Most of these rate decreases are zone specific for packages weighing between 2 pounds and 5 pounds.
When do I need to include that plastic (Form 2976-E) envelope on my package for the Customs Forms?
The USPS Form 2976-A Customs Form includes four copies of the standard Customs Form and must be inserted into the Form 2976-E envelope. You would attach this on Priority Mail International or Priority Mail Express International packages, but you can use the USPS 2976 Customs Form (1 page) for First-Class Package International Service packages.
I am a Stamps.com customer. Do I need to take any actions to get the new rates?
No, if you are a Stamps.com customer, you do not need to take any action. Stamps.com automatically updated all USPS rates inside the software and web-based version (Stamps.com Online) on Sunday, January 22, 2017.
