Regular Mail: How It Works, Costs & When to Use It

If you need to send a letter, a small parcel, or a family photo, regular mail is often the go‑to choice. It’s the service most people think of when they hear "post office" – simple, affordable, and reliable for everyday items.

Unlike express or next‑day services, regular mail doesn’t promise overnight delivery. Instead, it balances speed and price, usually arriving in 2‑7 business days depending on distance and class. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers several classes that fall under the regular mail umbrella, such as First‑Class Mail, Marketing Mail, and Parcel Select.

When to Choose Regular Mail Over Faster Options

Pick regular mail when you’re not in a rush and want to keep costs low. It’s perfect for:

• Standard letters and postcards
• Small packages under 2 lb that fit in a flat‑rate box
• Bulk newsletters or flyers sent to a wide audience
• Items that don’t need real‑time tracking

If you’re shipping a fragile gift, a time‑sensitive document, or a high‑value item, you might want a priority service, a courier, or a specialist freight option instead.

How Regular Mail Pricing Is Calculated

USPS uses weight, size, and destination to set the price. For letters, the cost is based on the first ounce plus a small fee for each additional ounce. Packages are charged by the ounce up to a 13‑oz limit for First‑Class Package Service, then move to Parcel Select for heavier items. You can save money by using flat‑rate boxes when the package is heavy but small enough to fit.

Don’t forget extra fees for services like Certified Mail, Return Receipt, or insurance. These add a few dollars but give you proof of delivery or protection against loss.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• First‑Class Letter (up to 1 oz): about $0.66
• First‑Class Package (up to 13 oz): starts around $4.00
• Flat‑Rate Small Box: $9.65 regardless of weight (under 70 lb limit)

These rates can shift with seasonal price updates, so it’s worth checking the latest chart before you ship.

To keep costs down, pack tightly, remove extra padding, and use the smallest box that fits. A well‑filled box avoids dimensional weight charges that couriers often apply.

Another tip: if you’re sending many similar items, consider bulk mailing discounts. You’ll need to meet volume requirements and follow specific labeling rules, but the savings can be significant for small businesses.

Finally, double‑check the address format. A clear, correctly ordered address reduces the chance of misdelivery and extra handling fees. Use the USPS official address standards: recipient name, street address, city, state abbreviation, ZIP + 4.

Regular mail might not be the flashiest option, but for everyday sending it delivers solid value. Understanding how it works, when it shines, and how to cut costs lets you ship smarter without sacrificing reliability.