In recent years, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has faced numerous challenges in maintaining its financial stability. One of these challenges is the rising cost of postage, which has increased over the years to keep up with inflation and other operational costs. While this may be frustrating for some, it’s important to note that the USPS plays a critical role in the country’s economy and is an essential service for many Americans. The USPS delivers letters, packages, and other mail items to every address in the United States, including to many rural areas where private carriers do not operate.
Beyond mail delivery, the USPS also provides essential services, including money orders, passport processing, and other government-related services. Additionally, the Postal Service employs over 650,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in the country.
The USPS also plays a vital role in supporting small businesses and e-commerce. With the rise of online shopping, the Postal Service has become even more critical in delivering packages and goods to consumers across the country. The USPS offers affordable shipping rates and services to small businesses, enabling them to compete with larger retailers.
With an additional price hike looming in July 2023, postage cost increases have been a contentious issue for both businesses and individuals who rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) for their mail and package deliveries.
Many may be frustrated with the increases in postage costs, but it’s essential to understand that these increases are necessary to keep the USPS financially stable as they are an independent self-funded federal agency. While these increases are a necessity at the moment, considering the rising operating expenses and inflation rates, adjustments like these will contribute to the overall financial sustainability and service excellence of the USPS
I want to offer a few solutions companies can take advantage of to combat the price increase:
- Use presort services: The use of presort services can help you qualify for lower postage rates by ensuring that your mail meets USPS requirements for sorting and addressing.
- Consider alternative formats: While traditional letter-sized mail may be subject to higher postage rates, alternative formats, such as postcards or flats, may be subject to lower rates. By exploring alternative formats, you may be able to reduce your postage costs without sacrificing the impact of your mailing.
- Potential USPS promotions: The USPS offers seasonal promotional discounts on certain types of mailings such as those that include new tech such as 3D images or that deliver a sensational customer experience through specialty inks and papers, etc. Taking advantage of these promotions can reduce your mailing cost and increase the impact of your mailing.
Snowball is here to help navigate these challenges by working within your budget. Please contact info@snowballpm.com to get started on your next direct mail campaign.
Written by: Geniesha Gipson
Sources: https://faq.usps.com/s/article/2023-Postage-Price-Changes , https://about.usps.com/who/profile/ , https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2020/08/26/how-is-the-u-s-postal-service-governed-and-funded/
