USPS Rates Explained – 2025 Prices, Savings & How to Choose

If you’re sending a letter, a small box, or a big pallet, the first question is always – how much will USPS charge? In 2025 the price tags have shifted a bit, but the basic structure stays the same: you pay by weight, size, and delivery speed. Below we break down the main services, give you the numbers you need, and share a few fast ways to keep the bill low.

Current USPS Pricing Overview

First‑Class Mail (letters & postcards) is the cheapest way to send anything under 1 oz. A standard letter costs $0.66, and each additional ounce adds about $0.20. If your mail is heavier, it jumps to First‑Class Package Service, which starts around $4.00 for a 1‑lb package and climbs with weight and distance.

Priority Mail is a go‑to for 1‑5 day deliveries. It uses flat‑rate boxes that let you ship any weight up to 70 lb for a fixed price – $9.65 for a Small Flat Rate, $15.05 for Medium, and $21.90 for Large. If you prefer to pay by weight, the rate starts at $7.50 for the first pound and adds roughly $0.70 per additional pound, depending on the zone.

Priority Mail Express guarantees overnight or 2‑day delivery. Prices start at $26.35 for a 0.5 lb letter and increase with weight and distance. This is the most expensive option, but it’s best when you need a guaranteed fast arrival.

For international shipments, Global Express Guaranteed starts at $45 for a 0.5 lb envelope, while First‑Class Package International Service begins at $14 for small parcels. Zones still matter – the farther the destination, the higher the cost.

How to Cut USPS Shipping Costs

First, check if a flat‑rate box fits your item. Even if the package is heavy, the flat price often beats the weight‑plus‑zone calculation. Second, use the USPS online label printer. Shipping labels bought at the post office carry an extra $0.30‑$0.50 surcharge that disappears when you print at home.

Third, bundle shipments. If you regularly ship dozens of parcels, ask USPS about a Commercial Base Pricing (CBP) contract – it can shave 5‑15% off the standard rates. Fourth, compare with UPS or FedEx for urgent letters. Our own analysis (see the post "USPS vs UPS: Which Overnight Letter Delivery Is Cheaper?") shows UPS sometimes undercuts USPS on overnight letters when you factor in bulk discounts.

Finally, trim the package. Every ounce counts, so use lightweight packaging and remove any unnecessary padding. A zip‑lock bag with a bubble wrap sleeve often costs less than a padded envelope.

At StockOne Logistics we help businesses audit their shipping habits, choose the right service, and negotiate better rates with carriers. Whether you’re a small online store or a larger distributor, a quick review can reveal savings of 10% or more on your USPS spend.

Bottom line: know which service matches your speed needs, use flat‑rate boxes when possible, print labels online, and keep an eye on bulk options. With those steps, you’ll avoid surprise charges and make the most of USPS in 2025.