USPS has announced that they will be taking the maximum increase allowed under current law, which is 2.1%.  The actual percentage price increase for specific products will vary, however, the overall average price increase for all mailing services is capped at the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index (which is 2.1%).  The new prices will go into effect on January 22, 2012 for most mailing services.

Here is what we know so far:

First –Class Mail Changes include:

• First-Class Postage Stamp – $0.01 increase to $0.45
• Postcards – $0.03 cents increase to $0.32
• Letters to Canada or Mexico – $0.05 increase to $0.85
• Letters to other international destinations – $0.07 increase to $1.05

Additional Price Adjustment Highlights:

• The price increase for Standard Mail Letters will be 1.9%
• A new short term P.O. Box rental of 3-month pricing option will be available

There is Some Good News…

The good news is that the Delivery Confirmation will be FREE for several parcel products such as the one used by Ware-Pak’s customers. The Postal Service continues to make tracking an integral component of parcels mailed at commercial rates.