First-Class Mail
Mail in 1–5 Business Days; Small Packages in 1–3 Business Days
First-Class Mail® service is an affordable and easy way to send envelopes and lightweight packages. First-Class Mail Forever® stamps cost $0.58 (the current 1 oz price) and will never expire, even if the First-Class™ postage rate goes up. For packages (up to 13 oz), prices start at $4.30.
ALERT: As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 emergency, certain packages may take longer than usual to arrive. Learn More
Features & Pricing
- Mail delivered in 1–5 business days
- Small packages delivered in 1–3 business days
- Best priced service for items up to 13 oz
- Insurance for loss or damage up to $5,000 for merchandise only
- Eligible for delivery confirmation services such as Certified Mail®
- One price for up to 3.5 ounces with commercially priced letters and cards
- Prices based on shape and weight
Letters
- Standard-sized, rectangular envelope stamps start at $0.58.
- Square, oversized, or unusually shaped envelope stamps start at $0.88.
Postcards
- Standard-sized, rectangular postcard stamps start at $0.40.
- Oversized postcards need letter stamps, which start at $0.58.
Large Envelopes/Small Packages:
- Large envelopes (flats) start at $1.16.
- Small packages start at $4.30.
Weight & Shape Requirements
- Maximum weight for First-Class Mail letters is 3.5 oz; for large First-Class Mail envelopes and parcels, the maximum weight is 13 oz.
- All postcards and envelopes (or flats) must be rectangular, otherwise an additional charge may apply. Additional size restrictions apply depending on the type of mailpiece you're sending.
Additional Charges for Irregular Mailpieces & Envelopes
Nonmachinable Envelopes
Unusually shaped mail, like square or vertical envelopes, lumpy envelopes, rigid envelopes, and mail with clasps, string, buttons, must be hand-cancelled. They are charged a nonmachinable surcharge even if they weight less than 1 oz.
Large Mailpieces & Envelopes
If a mailpiece exceeds the maximum length, height, or thickness, it will be charged at the next higher price and mailpiece category.
Large First-Class envelopes (flats) that exceed maximum dimensions, are rigid, non-rectangular, or not uniformly thick, are charged parcel prices.
The USPS® Price Calculator tool will show you how to measure your envelope and then calculate your domestic postage costs for you.
