In the dynamic landscape of postal services, businesses and individuals alike are often confronted with the challenges of adapting to changes in postage rates. As we usher in the year 2024, a notable increase in postage costs has become a reality. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of this postage rate increase in 2024 and shed light on how Pitney Bowes postage meters emerge as a valuable solution, offering both time and cost savings. With the dawn of the new year, postal services have implemented a small but notable increase in postage rates. Starting on July 14th, 2024, the US Postal Service will increase “Forever” stamp prices from 68 cents to 73 cents for letters weighing one ounce or less. This is on top of another increase that was put into place January 2024, where stamps increased from 63 cents to 68 cents. Whether you are a small business owner, a large corporation, or an individual managing personal mail, the impact of these changes is widespread. The rise in postage costs adds an extra layer of consideration for businesses aiming to streamline operations and reduce overheads. As stated above, the second increase will take place on July 14th, 2024. Businesses and individuals who will be greatly affected by this price increase could start stocking up on stamps now before the price increase goes into motion, but it likely won’t be the last. Statistically, the USPS has been raising postage costs twice to three times a year. Amidst the challenges posed by the increased postage rates, Pitney Bowes, a pioneer in mailing and shipping solutions, stands out as a reliable ally. The company's SendPro® series of automatic postage meter machines have proven to be an indispensable tool for businesses seeking efficiency, accuracy, and significant cost savings in their mailing processes. But first, what is metered mail? Metered mail allows businesses of all sizes to use a meter to print postage directly onto their mail, allowing them to save valuable time on trips to the post office. In addition, postage meters like the ones sold by Pitney Bowes include a built-in scale so every letter, postcard, and package is accurately weighed, so you always pay the correct amount on postage. Postage meters offer discounts on postage that are unavailable at the post office, so price increases like the one being implemented this month are less of a worry. So not only are you saving on time, but you are saving money, too. Not only has Pitney Bowes been in business for 100 years and has been a partner of the USPS for the same amount of time, but their mailing solutions are above all else. Pitney Bowes SendPro®postage meters automate the postage calculation and application process, eliminating the need for manual weighing, calculation, and affixing of postage. This automation not only reduces the margin for error but also frees up valuable time for businesses to focus on core activities. In a fast-paced business environment, time efficiency can be a game-changer, and Pitney Bowes postage meters deliver on this front. Businesses of all sizes can choose a postage meter that fits their mail volume, but all Pitney Bowe’s postage meters allow for time and cost savings while being compliant with USPS standards. As a partner of Pitney Bowes, TROY is honored to add postage meters, as well as inserters, folders, and openers to our suite of security solutions. Accurate Postage Calculation: Pitney Bowes' SendPro® postage meters utilize advanced technology to accurately calculate postage based on each mail piece's weight, size, and destination. This precision ensures that businesses pay the correct postage amount, avoiding the risk of underpayment and subsequent penalties. Accuracy in postage calculation becomes increasingly crucial in the face of rising postage rates, making Pitney Bowes a trusted partner for businesses seeking financial prudence. Automatic Cost Savings: Beyond the initial investment in a Pitney Bowes postage meter, businesses can realize significant cost savings in the long run. Not only does each SendPro® postage meter have automatic updates to shipping rates, but will allow you to automatically save 3 cents on every First Class letter you send. USPS IMI Compliance: The price increase for postage isn’t the only thing the USPS is changing in 2024. They are also changing the current IBI (Information Based Indicia) performance standard that all sending devices must meet. 2024 will see the introduction of IMI compliance, which will enable the USPS to better automate operations, increase security standards and ensure correct mail postage. IMI compliance will be a requirement by the end of 2024, and all other devices will be decertified. Pitney Bowes SendPro® postage meters are already IMI compliant, so upgrading now will avoid headache in the long run. As businesses navigate the challenges posed by the 2024 postage hike, Pitney Bowes SendPro® postage meters emerge as a strategic investment. The combination of time efficiency, accurate postage calculation, cost savings, and convenience positions Pitney Bowes as a valuable partner in the quest for streamlined mailing processes. In an era where every penny and minute count, businesses can find solace and success in the reliability of Pitney Bowes postage meters. Fill out our form to schedule a free consultation below.Postage Rate Increase 2024
When do postage rates increase?
Pitney Bowes Postage Meters: A Saving Grace
What is metered mail?
Why Pitney Bowes?
Stay Above the Postage Rate Increase in 2024 with Pitney Bowes and TROY
FAQs
Here's How to Beat the Postage Rate Increase in 2024? ›
On April 9, 2024, the United States Postal Service® filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) of Mailing Services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. Those rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail® Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents.
How much is postage going up in 2024? ›On April 9, 2024, the United States Postal Service® filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) of Mailing Services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. Those rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail® Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents.
Are forever stamps still good in 2024? ›Yes, you can still use any Forever stamp. Any Forever stamp covers the cost of first-ounce postage even if the price of a stamp changes, Coleman said.
How much are Post Office boxes going up in 2024? ›The Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for Special Services products, including Certified Mail and money order fees. Notably, there will be no price increase for Post Office Box rental fees, and the Postal Service will apply a price reduction of 10 percent for postal insurance when mailing an item.
How much is the priority mail flat rate in 2024? ›| Flat Rate Envelopes | Commercial | Retail |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail Legal Flat Rate Envelope | $8.80 | $10.15 |
| Priority Mail Padded Flat Rate Envelope | $9.30 | $10.60 |
| Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope | $26.35 | $30.45 |
| Priority Mail Express Legal Flat Rate Envelope | $26.65 | $30.65 |
The U.S. Postal Service said stamps will increase from their current price of 68 cents to 73 cents on July 14. Stamps are about to get a bit more expensive this summer — before getting another price increase in January 2025.
What prices are going up in 2024? ›Beef and veal, eggs, and sugar and sweets are expected to increase the most in price for all of 2024. Sugar and sweets are forecasted to go up 5.8% while egg prices could increase as much as 4.7%. Beef and veal prices are projected to increase 2.7% this year.
Are 10 year old forever stamps still good? ›As the name suggests, Forever Stamps can be used to mail a one-ounce letter regardless of when the stamps are purchased or used and no matter how prices may change in the future. Forever Stamps are always sold at the same price as a regular First-Class Mail stamp.
Can I use old stamps after price increase? ›Forever stamps hold their value, covering the first ounce, so customers with previously purchased Forever stamps can still use them after an increase goes into effect. Anyone using non-Forever stamps may need to add additional postage to first-class letters.
Are stamps cheaper at Costco? ›Retailers and Wholesale Clubs
If you're a Costco or other wholesale club member, you'll undoubtedly have seen mentions of stamps for sale at a reduced price. Costco often sells stamps in sets of 100 for anywhere from $0.25 to a couple of dollars off the retail price.
What is the 2024 USPS mandate? ›
Effective June 30, 2024, USPS® discontinued all Information Based Indicia (IBI) postage meter technology and required all postage meters to upgrade to a new system called Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI).
Is it cheaper to use boxes from the post office? ›For shipments traveling shorter distances, Zones 1-4, and weighing less than 20 lbs, using your own packaging for weight-based rates may be a better value. Across all zones, though, shipments weighing over 25 lbs will ship for less in a Flat Rate Large Box.
How much is postage going up? ›Postage Rate Increase 2024
Starting on July 14th, 2024, the US Postal Service will increase “Forever” stamp prices from 68 cents to 73 cents for letters weighing one ounce or less. This is on top of another increase that was put into place January 2024, where stamps increased from 63 cents to 68 cents.
On Sunday, July 14, 2024, certain postage prices will increase in the United States. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp. The price will change from the current 68 cents to 73 cents.
Is USPS discontinuing Flat Rate? ›The Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes variety pack, which contains one of each the flat-rate boxes, also will no longer be offered, but the boxes offered in the pack will still be available separately. Customers can purchase the boxes and variety pack while supplies last.
How much to mail a 9x12 envelope in 2024? ›| Large Envelope ("Flat") Weight | 2024 Rate |
|---|---|
| 1st Class Large Envelope, 9 oz | $3.71 |
| 1st Class Large Envelope, 10 oz | $4.01 |
| 1st Class Large Envelope, 11 oz | $4.31 |
| 1st Class Large Envelope, 12 oz | $4.61 |
| Stamps | Release Date | ZIP |
|---|---|---|
| 1-cent Fringed Tulip (no ceremony) 2-cent Daffodils 3-cent Peonies 5-cent Red Tulips 10-cent Poppies and Coneflowers | July 18 | 94704 |
| Hank Aaron | July 31 | 30304 |
| Dungeons & Dragons | Aug. 1 | 46206 |
| Pinback Buttons | Aug. 15 | 06101 |
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is expected to raise the price of its postage stamps again, which would be the second time in 2024 that the cost of stamps has increased. Starting July 14, a first-class mail "Forever" stamp will reportedly cost 73 cents each — a 7% jump from its current price of 68 cents.
Why is Amazon using USPS 2024? ›1. Cost: USPS may offer lower shipping rates compared to UPS, especially for smaller packages and for deliveries to rural areas. 2. Coverage: USPS has a larger network of post offices and delivery routes, which allows Amazon to reach more customers in remote areas.