Usps Priority Mail Vs First Class In 2022 (Differences, Cost + More)
USPS can offer many different shipping options. However, it may be challenging to decide which one is best for you.
Priority Mail is the most preferred option. But what’s the difference? And how can you tell when to use them both?
USPS Priority Mail and USPS First Class differ in how large the packages can be. Priority Mail can send packages less than 70 pounds faster than First Class Mail. First Class Mail is slower, however, First Class Mail is more expensive and depends on the package’s weight. Priority Mail and First Class Mail both offer tracking numbers. However, Priority Mail does not provide insurance.
What Is The Difference Between USPS Priority Mail And USPS First Class Mail?
USPS Priority Mail was launched to enable eCommerce merchants get their products to customers more quickly and without imposing any size limits. USPS First Class Mail was the preferred way to deliver mail, such as letters, for decades.
The most crucial difference to note is the size restrictions that come with Priority Mail and First Class.
Priority Mail will be accepted for all packages that are less than 70 pounds.
Is USPS Priority Mail Or USPS First Class Mail Faster?
USPS Shipping Times are affected by where you ship to.
Priority Mail will be your best option if speed and efficiency are your main priorities when shipping packages.
Priority mail typically delivers within 1-3 days and First Class mail usually delivers within 2-7 days, although neither service guarantees delivery days.
Is USPS Priority Mail Or USPS First Class Mail More Expensive?
USPS operates as a federal entity, which means that their rates fluctuate based off inflation.
It is generally cheaper to use First Class than Priority Mail. Priority Mail fees are calculated based on distance traveled.
First Class Mail costs depend on how large the package is and what destination it goes to. Priority Mail charges a flat fee.
Priority Mail and First Class Mail cost about $3 each. First Class mail costs less.
Why should I use Priority Mail instead of First Class Mail?
The factors that we discussed previously play an essential role in determining whether Priority Mail is better than First Class Mail to address your shipping needs. Below is a list of the most common items you can send with each option.
Another important factor to note is the destination you’re shipping to.
For nearly all international mail, Priority Mail is typically the best option as it cuts shipping times nearly in half and offers insurance to protect your package.
First Class mail, if you are concerned about cost, is your best choice. Provided your package meets certain dimensions and weights, First Class mail can be the right option.
How do you send USPS Priority Mail and First Class Mail?
Use prelabeled USPS mail boxes to easily distinguish First Class Mail from Priority Mail.
This can be done by visiting your local postal office, and choosing one of the envelopes or boxes marked Priority Mail/First Class Mail.
You can then pack the item you are shipping into an envelope or box. Once the package is returned to your postal office, ask for a representative to mail your parcel.
You don’t have to go back to the postal office to drop off your package. This saves time and effort.
What Are the Differences Between USPS First Class and Priority Mail?
First Class package deliveries offer tracking as a built-in feature, which means you don’t pay extra to be able to track your package, where regular First Class mail does not offer tracking information.
Priority Mail also offers tracking as a built-in feature, as well as package insurance up to $100 for domestic shipments and $200 for international shipments.
The shipping services offered by both options can include delivery signatures, money back guarantee, and other additional add-ons.
To learn more about USPS delivery, you can also read our related posts on whether or not USPS first class has tracking, if USPS reused tracking numbers, and if you can use any box to ship at USPS.
Priority Mail and First Class Mail are popular options for shipping packages. However, they do have some significant differences.
First Class Mail tends to be less expensive, however it has more restrictions regarding size and is not delivered as fast as Priority Mail.
Priority Mail can be faster and offers more options, such as package coverage at a flat fee that is significantly less than First Class Mail.
You can send both options through the post office. Both offer tracking and may be customized with extra features, such as delivery signatures.
.Usps Priority Mail Vs First Class In 2022 (Differences, Cost + More)