Exciting News! LetterStream Will Be at the 2026 National Postal Forum

The National Postal Forum (NPF) is an annual event held in partnership with the United States Postal Service (USPS), focused on education, networking, and innovation in the mailing and shipping industry. This year, it’s coming to the Phoenix Convention Center from May 3–6, bringing together businesses, USPS leadership, and mailing professionals to explore how organizations send mail more efficiently.

If you’re attending, stop by booth #742 to meet the LetterStream team and see how businesses are simplifying the way they send mail online—without the burden of managing it internally.

It’s a conversation that fits perfectly at NPF, one of the largest events in the mailing industry, where you can see everything behind business mail in one place—from the systems and materials to the processes that keep it all moving.

What Is the National Postal Forum?

The National Postal Forum is where the entire mailing ecosystem comes together in one place.

From businesses that rely on mail every day to the companies behind how it’s produced and processed, NPF brings the full industry into one place. Sessions, USPS updates, and the exhibit hall together show how mail moves from document to destination.

But what makes NPF especially valuable isn’t just what’s presented—it’s what you start to notice.

Because when every part of the process is laid out in front of you, you begin to understand just how much coordination it takes to send business mail at scale.

You can explore more about the event here: https://www.npf.org/

What You See When You Walk the National Postal Forum Floor

At first glance, the NPF exhibit hall is impressive.

You’ll see high-speed printers running at scale, inserting equipment, sorting systems, paper providers, tracking tools—every component that supports business mail, all operating within a larger system. Each piece is designed to make the process more efficient, more accurate, more controlled.

But as you take it all in, a bigger picture starts to form.

Mail is not simple.

Behind every piece of business mail is a chain of steps—printing, folding, inserting, verifying addresses, sorting, tracking, and coordinating timing. Each step depends on the one before it. Each step requires oversight. And each step adds another layer to manage.

What stands out isn’t just how advanced the technology is—it’s how much coordination is required to keep everything moving.

And once you see it all together, it’s hard not to ask:

How much of this should we actually be responsible for?

Why Mail Still Matters—But Expectations Have Changed

Mail continues to play a critical role in business communication.

But what’s expected from it has changed—significantly.

Today, it’s not enough to simply send mail. Businesses need visibility into when it was sent, confidence it was handled correctly, and clear documentation to support it. Accuracy matters more. Timing matters more. Accountability matters more.

At the same time, the teams responsible for making that happen are balancing competing priorities.

What used to feel like a routine task has become something far more involved—requiring coordination across people, systems, and timelines just to keep everything moving.

And with every added step comes more pressure.

More chances for delays.
More opportunities for errors.
More risk when something slips through the cracks.

Especially for teams that are already stretched thin, managing mail is no longer simple—it’s something that has to be actively controlled.

Where LetterStream Fits Into the National Postal Forum

National Postal Forum LetterStream booth — LetterStream at Booth #742

After seeing everything it takes to run mail operations, one thing becomes clear—managing it internally is a significant responsibility.

That’s where LetterStream comes in.

LetterStream is a print and mail service that allows businesses to send mail online without building and maintaining the infrastructure behind it. No equipment to manage. No supplies to keep stocked. No internal workflows to coordinate.

What typically requires multiple systems, steps, and checkpoints is reduced to something far more straightforward.

Documents are uploaded, recipients are selected, and mail is sent—whether it’s First-Class Mail or Certified Mail online—without the layers of oversight most teams are used to managing.

And for many organizations, that’s the real advantage. It’s not just about doing the process more efficiently. It’s about removing the need to manage the process at all.

If you want to see how that works, you can learn more here .

What This Means for Your Business

Seeing everything involved in sending mail—every system, every step, every checkpoint—puts things into perspective.

For most businesses, the challenge isn’t understanding how mail works. It’s everything required to keep it working consistently. The coordination, the oversight, the time it takes to manage each moving part.

And over time, that starts to raise a more practical question.

Is your team’s time best spent managing printers, supplies, and workflows? Or should it be focused on the work that actually drives the business forward?

That’s where the shift begins.

Not in trying to improve each part of the process, but in stepping back and reconsidering whether managing it internally still makes sense.

Visit LetterStream at Booth #742 at the National Postal Forum

There’s more than one way to handle business mail.

The National Postal Forum highlights the systems and processes that make in-house mail operations possible. Walking the floor, you see just how much coordination goes into keeping everything running.

And for many organizations, that approach works.

But it also brings a different perspective into focus.

When you see the full picture, it becomes easier to ask whether managing each step internally is necessary—or if there’s a simpler way to accomplish the same goal.

That’s the conversation LetterStream is having at booth #742.

To learn more about LetterStream or to sign up for a free account, click here.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services, allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations the time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

New Changes to USPS postmarks. Why this is important for businesses

Announcement:

USPS postmarks are now applied during processing rather than at drop-off, which means the date on a postmark may not reflect when mail was sent—creating challenges for businesses that rely on mailing deadlines and compliance requirements.

A USPS postmark no longer reliably indicates when your mail was sent, and this shift introduces new risk for deadline-driven businesses.

For decades, “postmarked by” carried a clear and trusted meaning. If something was mailed on Monday, the postmark showed Monday. That expectation can no longer be relied upon.

Today, United States Postal Service (USPS) postmarks often reflect when mail is processed rather than when it is dropped off.

In a statement addressing postmarking practices, USPS explains: “The Postal Service has not changed and is not changing our postmarking practices. Postmarks are generally applied by machines at our originating processing facilities and will continue to contain … the date on which the first automated processing operation was performed on that mailpiece.”

For businesses that depend on mailing deadlines, compliance requirements, or documentation, this creates a real and measurable operational risk.

What a USPS Postmark Used to Represent

Historically, a postmark acted as informal proof of a mailing date. Courts, tax agencies, and businesses relied on it to confirm something was sent on time.

Drop a letter in the mail, and that date appeared on the envelope. Entire workflows and compliance systems were built around that expectation.

For years, the process felt predictable and dependable until now.

How USPS Postmarks Work Today

Although the postmarking practices haven’t officially changed, according to USPS, adjustments have been made to the transportation operations, which can result in “some mail pieces not arriving at our originating processing facilities on the same day that they are mailed. This means that the date on the postmarks applied at the processing facilities will not necessarily match the date on which the customer’s mailpiece was collected by a letter carrier or dropped off at a retail location.”  

This means the date printed on mail is no longer fully within the sender’s control.

Why This Change Can Matter for Businesses

Postmarks are still used to determine whether something was sent on time.

This can affect:

Tax filings, appeals, and refund requests
Legal notices and compliance letters
Business invoices, contracts, and other deadline-driven mail
Any communication governed by “postmarked by” rules

Even a one-day difference can result in rejected filings, disputes, or penalties. This is a real operational risk, not a hypothetical one.

The Hidden Risk of USPS Postmarks for Businesses

This is what makes the change especially challenging. Even when mail is prepared correctly, postage is applied properly, and USPS guidelines are followed; the postmark date can still be determined by processing delays.

Those delays are invisible to the sender. For organizations managing recurring or high-volume mail, assumptions that worked for decades are no longer enough.

Businesses now need greater awareness of how mailing timelines are documented and interpreted.

When a Postmark No Longer Tells the Full Story

Consider a homeowners’ association that sends annual notices or policy updates. These mailings may not require Certified Mail, but the association still needs to demonstrate that notices were sent if a homeowner later disputes receiving one.

The board prepares the mailing on time and drops it in the mail before the deadline. Later, the envelope shows a postmark dated after that deadline. Nothing went wrong operationally, yet the documentation no longer reflects when the mail was actually sent.

This same risk applies across industries. Legal offices, healthcare administrators, property managers, financial teams, and corporate departments all send time-sensitive mail that does not require signatures but still demands accountability.

When postmarks reflect processing time rather than send date, any organization relying on mailing deadlines can find itself without reliable documentation.

What This Can Mean for Mail Going Forward

Postmarks still exist, but they no longer provide the clear proof many businesses have relied on in the past.

As USPS processing increasingly determines when postmarks are applied, organizations must rethink how they plan and manage deadline-sensitive mail. Sending mail earlier than stated deadlines is no longer optional—it is a practical step to reduce risk and account for processing delays outside the sender’s control.

Businesses that build additional time into their mailing schedules gain predictability and confidence. Those who continue to rely solely on postmark dates may find themselves facing disputes or explaining delays they cannot document or prevent.

Understanding what a USPS postmark represents today—and planning accordingly—is now essential for meeting deadlines and protecting business operations.

To learn more about LetterStream, click here.

Sources & References

USPS — What Is a Postmark?
https://faq.usps.com/s/article/What-is-a-Postmark

USPS — Postmarking Myths and Facts
https://about.usps.com/newsroom/statements/010226-postmarking-myths-and-facts.htm

USPS Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) 604 — Postmarking Standards
https://pe.usps.com/text/dmm300/604.htm

U.S. Government Accountability Office — USPS Mail Processing Network Changes
https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-24-106946

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services, allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

News Alert: Mail Delays in Kansas City and Louisville Due to Winter Storm

News Alert

Winter storms across the Midwest have created hazardous road conditions that are now affecting USPS operations. In a new industry alert, the USPS announced unload delays at major processing facilities in Kansas City, MO and Louisville, KY, which may impact mail movement through December 5.

What the USPS Shared in Its Alert

According to the USPS, recent snow events caused extended road closures earlier this week, resulting in a buildup of inbound trailers at both affected facilities. With higher-than-normal volume arriving in a short window, these locations are now experiencing delays unloading incoming mail trucks.

The USPS advised that drop ship customers may see longer wait times and should continue reporting significant issues through the FAST Helpdesk. They also noted active efforts to reduce congestion, including staffing adjustments, scheduled offloads, and alternative drop-site arrangements.

(Reference: USPS Industry Alert — https://postalpro.usps.com/node/14698)

Alternate Entry Locations Recommended by USPS

To keep mail moving, the USPS suggested that customers entering mail at origin consider temporarily using alternate locations.

Kansas City, MO Alternate Sites

Oklahoma City, OK Processing & Distribution Center — NASS 730
Des Moines, IA Network Distribution Center — NASS 50Z

Louisville, KY Alternate Sites

Springdale, OH Annex — NASS 452AX
Memphis, TN Processing & Distribution Center — NASS 380

These sites may help relieve pressure on the two impacted facilities until weather-related backlogs improve.

How This Affects LetterStream Customers

If you use LetterStream to print and send mail online, your mailing workflow remains uninterrupted. Our systems continue to process and route mail quickly, accurately, and reliably. However, USPS transport conditions may still affect nationwide transit times, especially during winter months.

For more background on USPS operational changes, you may find these helpful:

If you need a refresher on mailing options, explore: https://www.letterstream.com/

Helpful Tips During Weather-Related USPS Delays

Winter conditions can shift quickly, so this is a good time to review your mailing strategy.

Consider:

Mailing earlier when deadlines matter
Monitoring USPS service alerts
Using tracking services like Certified Mail or FedEx 2Day for visibility
Adjusting internal timelines to accommodate possible slowdowns

Staying Updated Through December

The USPS noted that it is actively monitoring weather impacts and making ongoing adjustments to maintain operational flow. As new updates become available, we’ll continue to provide timely summaries to help you stay ahead of potential disruptions.

To learn more about LetterStream or to sign up for a free account, click here.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

Good News! No Postage Increase Planned For January 2026

Big news for businesses: the USPS has confirmed there will be no postage price increase in January 2026! That means businesses can count on stable mailing costs through the first half of 2026.

In 2025, USPS surprised many by holding rates steady and not increasing them in January. This was the first time in years we didn’t see a mid-winter hike. Now, they’ve doubled down with another freeze for January 2026, meaning there is no USPS postage increase happening at the beginning of the year.

What This Means for Businesses

For organizations that depend on physical mail—law firms, HOAs, healthcare providers, financial services, and more—this pause brings some relief. Instead of bracing for another January increase, especially since we just had a price increase in July 2025, you’ll see postage pricing stay the same at least for the first half of 2026.

Why USPS Made This Decision

The Postal Service framed the decision as part of its Delivering for America 10-year plan, which balances financial stability with affordability. By holding off on January adjustments, USPS is giving businesses and individuals more breathing room while continuing to modernize operations.

“We continually strive to balance our pricing approach both to meet the revenue needs of the Postal Service and to deliver affordable offerings that reflect market conditions,” Postmaster General David Steiner said. “We have therefore decided at this time to forgo a price change for First-Class Mail postage and other Market Dominant services until mid-year 2026.”

Read the entire announcement here.

The next expected price review will come mid-2026, at which point USPS may adjust rates to account for inflation and operational costs.

How LetterStream Helps You Stay Ahead

At LetterStream, we know rate changes can create stress for businesses that depend on mail. Even when prices hold steady, it’s smart to optimize how you send letters. That’s where we help:

No Post Office Runs: Upload documents online and let us handle the printing, addressing, and mailing—no wasted staff hours.
Tracking & Proof: Digital dashboards provide real-time visibility into every letter, with delivery confirmations stored securely.
Scalability: Whether you’re mailing one Certified notice or thousands of First-Class letters, the process is just as seamless.

Stable pricing is great news, but true savings come from smarter processes—and that’s where LetterStream gives you the edge.

Looking Ahead

So what should businesses do with this news?

Take advantage of the pause. Use the next few months to evaluate mailing workflows.
Plan for the future. Expect a mid-2026 adjustment and budget accordingly. Rumor has it that we should expect a postage increase come mid-2026 (usually in July).
Adopt smarter tools now. Platforms like LetterStream help you save time and reduce errors regardless of USPS rates.

In other words, while the Postal Service has hit “pause” on price increases, it’s the perfect time for businesses to hit “go” on efficiency.

Celebrating No January 2026 Postage Increase

No postage increase in January 2026 is a welcome update for businesses that rely on the mail. It offers predictability, stability, and a chance to refocus on process improvements instead of cost increases, which is something to celebrate.

And when the next adjustment does come, you’ll be ready—because with LetterStream, sending mail online is always The Easiest, Fastest Way to Send Real Mail. To learn more, click here.

USPS Is Closing CPUs—What That Means for Your Business Mail

Recently, the U.S. Postal Service has been quietly closing Contract Postal Units (CPUs) across the country—leaving communities and businesses without convenient access to mailing services they’ve relied on for years.

If you’ve ever used a CPU located on the local corner or tucked inside a hardware store, pharmacy, or university bookstore, you know how valuable they can be. They offer local, accessible mailing options without the long lines or travel time to a main post office.

Now? Many of them are disappearing.

And while the news might feel like one more reason to worry about your business-critical mail, we’re not here to sound alarms.

We’re here to offer solutions.

Wait—What’s a CPU, and Why Are They Closing?

CPUs are retail locations contracted by the USPS to offer mailing services like First-Class, Certified Mail, postage, and P.O. boxes—especially in underserved areas or high-demand zones.

They’ve long played a key role in helping the USPS meet local demand without opening full-service post offices. But due to rising costs, contract changes, and internal restructuring, the Postal Service has ended many of these contracts—sometimes without community input or clear alternatives.

This leaves businesses and residences without local access to Certified Mail, postage, or package drop-off.

In fact, a USPS Inspector General audit found that some areas need more CPUs, not fewer.

So, where does that leave businesses?

If Your CPU Closes, Your Options Shrink Fast

When a CPU shuts down, it’s not just an inconvenience. It affects how businesses send important communications—especially in industries that rely on physical mail for legal or compliance reasons.

HOAs need to send out ballots, violation notices, and annual meeting packets
Law firms rely on Certified Mail online for time-sensitive filings
Medical offices must send HIPAA-compliant documentation on a tight schedule
Property managers need to notify residents of lease changes, fee updates, and more

Losing your closest postal location can mean longer drive times, longer lines, lost productivity, and mailing delays—none of which are great for business.

Here’s the Good News: You Don’t Need a CPU to Send Mail

At LetterStream, we’ve been helping businesses send mail online for over 20 years—no trips to the Post Office required.

Whether you were relying on a CPU or a main postal branch, the challenge is the same: how do you keep your mailing processes fast, accurate, and reliable without relying on physical access to USPS? (Here’s a hint: LetterStream.com.) Ok, so maybe a hint wasn’t the right word.

Just so you know, that’s exactly what our platform is built for.

Upload your documents and addresses
Choose your mail class: First-Class, Certified Mail, or even FedEx 2Day
Track every job with real-time updates
Let us print, prep, and send your documents—without stepping foot in a Post Office

CPUs May Be Disappearing, But Your Mail Doesn’t Have to Slow Down

This shift in USPS infrastructure is a wake-up call for businesses still dependent on physical mailing locations. It’s time to bring your mailing strategy into the digital age—without giving up the benefits of real, tangible mail.

And we’re not just saying that. Here’s what your business gains when you send mail online through a trusted print and mail service:

Speed: Get documents uploaded in minutes and out the door fast, even during peak seasons
Tracking: Maintain full visibility with digital proof of mailing and delivery when sending Certified Mail online
Scalability: Whether you send 10 letters or 10,000, the process stays consistent
Location freedom: Your mailing doesn’t rely on a single Post Office or CPU

So even if USPS closes more CPUs—and they likely will—you’re ready.

Think of It as an Opportunity, Not a Roadblock

Yes, losing local mailing centers is frustrating. But it’s also a powerful reminder that your business needs a mail strategy that can adapt.

Sending documents shouldn’t depend on someone driving across town, waiting in line, or hoping a retail CPU is still in business. With online mailing, it’s all handled from your desk—fast, secure, and trackable.

When USPS infrastructure shifts, your operations don’t have to.

LetterStream makes printing and mailing a breeze!

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services, allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

USPS Postage Rates Are Rising Again This July. Here’s What You Need to Know.

The First-Class stamp is about to rise by another five cents starting on July 13, 2025.

Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s happening again. Starting July 13, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will raise its postage prices. Luckily, this is the first increase of the year. In the past, USPS has been known to raise its prices twice in one year (both in January and July), but this year, they surprised us and gave us all a bit of a break in January. However, we couldn’t get too comfortable.

Bummer, we know.

So, if you’re mailing statements, notices, compliance letters, or Certified Mail, this change affects your bottom line. The good news? We’re being completely transparent with the cost, making it easy to understand and even easier to manage.

July 2025 USPS Postage Rate Increase: What’s Changing?

First, let’s look at what the USPS is changing this July:

First-Class Letters (1 oz): $0.73 → $0.78 (5¢ increase)
First-Class Metered Mail: $0.69 → $0.74 (5¢ increase)
International Letters (1 oz): $1.65 → $1.70 (5¢ increase)
First-Class Flats: $1.50 → $1.63 (13¢ increase)
Certified Mail: $4.85 → $5.30 (45¢ increase)
Certified ERR (Electronic Return Receipt): $2.62 → $2.82 (20¢ increase)
Extra Ounces (Letters): $0.28 → $0.29 (1¢ increase)
Postcards: $0.56 → $0.62 (6¢ increase)
Registered Mail: $21.75 → $23.40 ($1.65 increase)
Registered Mail International RR: $6.10 → $6.70 (60¢ increase)
Certificate of Mailing (firmbook): $2.20 → $2.40 (20¢ increase)
Marketing Mail: 37¢ increase

LetterStream’s New Pricing Effective July 13, 2025

Now, keep in mind, LetterStream isn’t raising service prices, but we will be increasing the rate of postage. Our updated pricing list includes the new postage rates only, nothing more, nothing hidden.

LetterStream’s pricing list with new postage rates included:

First-Class Letter: New price starting at $1.23
Flats: New price starting at $2.67
Certified Mail (no ERR): New price starting at $8.34 (Certified Mail includes Certified Mail postage increase of 45¢ plus First-Class postage increase of 5¢, making the total postage increase 50¢)
Certified Mail with Electronic Return Receipt: New price starting at $11.16 (Certified Mail ERR includes Certified Mail postage increase of 45¢ plus First-Class postage increase of 5¢, making the total postage increase 50¢, along with the 20¢ ERR increase, putting the total postage increase at 70¢ per letter)
Express Postcards: New price starting at $0.87
PRO Postcards: New price starting at $1.25 (Pro Postcards get the same amount as First-Class postage, which increased by 5¢)
International Letters: New price starting at $2.73
Marketing Mail: New price starting at $ 1.41
Registered Mail: New price starting at $35.88 (Registered mail always goes up by the Registered base increase, plus Registered International Return Receipt, and First-Class International (so this time around, first class int’l is going up by .05, int’l return receipt is going up by .60, and registered base is going up by 1.65, so the Registered Mail cost is going up by a total of 2.30)
Extra Ounces (Letters): New price going up to $0.29

To view a breakdown by product type, visit our products page.

Why This Matters for Your Business

If you’re sending hundreds—or thousands—of pieces of mail a month by snail mail, even a five-cent increase per item adds up. Here’s why now is the time to review your mailing operations:

Budget Smarter, Not Harder – Postage may seem like a minor line item—until it suddenly isn’t. A few cents here and there can quietly add thousands to your annual spend if you’re mailing at scale. This mid-year increase gives you a chance to reforecast your mailing budget, adjust client billing (if applicable), and avoid end-of-year sticker shock. The businesses that stay ahead of these changes are the ones that don’t lose sleep over them.
Reassess the Way You Mail – If your team is still printing documents, folding them by hand, stuffing envelopes, applying postage, and hauling bins to the post office—you’re not just paying more in postage now. You’re also spending time, labor, and resources on a process that could be handled in minutes. Higher USPS rates only amplify the cost of inefficiency. Now’s the perfect time to ask: Is your mailing strategy working for you, or slowing you down?
Communicate Across the Board – Postage hikes affect more than just your mailroom—they ripple through your budget, operations, and customer relationships. If you pass along mail costs to clients, it’s essential to communicate the new rates clearly and proactively. And internally, make sure your teams are aligned so there are no surprises when the next invoice goes out. A little transparency now builds a lot of trust later.
Shift to Smarter Delivery (Without Losing Control) – You don’t have to overhaul your business to modernize your mail. Whether you’re outsourcing Certified Mail, exploring First-Class automation, there are ways to mail smarter without reinventing the wheel. Let your team focus on high-value work, and let us handle the envelopes, postage, mailing and even tracking. You’ll gain time, control, and peace of mind.

Let LetterStream Handle the Heavy Lifting

Unfortunately, we can’t stop USPS from raising prices, but we can make sending mail a lot easier, faster, and more reliable.

Here are some benefits of having an account with LetterStream:

Upload a document and send it in under 2 minutes
Track Certified Mail right from inside of your account
No minimums, no monthly fees
Store and access all your job history and PDFs digitally
Add multiple users and manage accounts easily
Get fast, accurate and reliable mailing, every time
Trips to the Post Office are a thing of the past

Considering Email Instead? We’ve Got That Too.

We get it—when postage goes up (again), the idea of going digital gets a little more appealing. If you’re rethinking how you send statements, notices, or other business-critical documents, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to leave LetterStream to make the switch.

In addition to our full suite of print and mail services, we also offer eDoc Delivery, a simple way to send your documents via email, straight from your LetterStream account. This service can be done in place of or in addition to your regular UPSP mailings.

To learn more visit our free 24/7 online Chatbot for pricing and next steps.

Don’t Let the Postage Hike Slow You Down

Mail is still essential for business and it doesn’t have to be a burden. With LetterStream, you can send smarter, stay ahead of pricing changes, and focus on what actually moves your business forward.

For more information regarding the July 2025 price increase, visit the USPS website or you can download the list of rate changes here.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

How to Prepare For the New USPS Postage Increase

Heads-up: USPS is raising postage prices on July 13, 2025, and yes—this affects your mail spend.

Starting July 13, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is raising its rates again. And while we’re not here to gripe about it (okay, maybe a little), it’s important that anyone sending business-critical mail knows exactly what this means—and what it doesn’t.

Because while USPS postage rates are going up, we’ve got one important update on our end: we’re not increasing our prices at LetterStream. But we will be adjusting the postage portion of your job to match the new USPS rates.

So let’s break it down in plain English.

What’s Changing with USPS Postage in July 2025?

USPS has announced a postage rate hike effective July 13, 2025. This includes increases to:

Forever stamps (1‑oz letters, retail): 73¢ → 78¢ (+5¢)
Metered letters (1‑oz): 69¢ → 74¢ (+5¢)
Domestic postcards: 56¢ → 62¢ (+6¢)
International letters/postcards (1‑oz): $1.65 → $1.70 (+5¢)
Additional ounce (letters): 28¢ → 29¢ (+1¢)

Everyone keeps asking why? Why does the USPS keep raising prices and the truth is, USPS cites inflation, transportation costs, and their Delivering for America 10-year plan, which is essentially their roadmap for becoming more self-sustaining and less reliant on congressional funding. (It’s ambitious. We’ll give them that.) The good news in all this, Certified Mail did NOT get a price increase, at least this time around.

📌 Source: U.S. Postal Service Recommends New Prices for July – Newsroom – About.usps.com

How Will This Impact Your Business Mail?

If you’re a business owner, HOA board, attorney, property manager, or anyone who relies on sending physical mail—this change affects you. Whether you send 50 invoices a week or 5,000 statements a month, higher postage means higher mailing costs… that’s why it’s important to plan for it.

LetterStream’s software automatically reflects the most current USPS rates, so you’ll always be working with accurate numbers. No guesswork. No surprises. But the important part is this: our print and processing prices aren’t changing.

The only increase you’ll see is the actual postage cost passed through from USPS.

**Wait, You’re Not Raising Prices?**

Correct. We’re keeping our service prices exactly the same.

We’re not in the business of sneaking in price hikes every time USPS makes a move. This doesn’t mean we won’t ever raise our prices in the future, but it would be because it makes sense for our business, not because the USPS upped their prices again. The only thing you’ll see go up on your invoice is the postage itself—because that’s the part we don’t control. We print it, we add postage, and we mail it, but we don’t drive the mail trucks to get it to its destination.

In other words, you still get the same streamlined, secure, high-quality print and mail service without paying more for it—even when the postage does its thing.

Why Postage Still Matters (Even in 2025)

You might be thinking, “Why does postage even matter in the digital age?”

Here’s the truth: physical mail still drives results when it comes to things like:

Legal and compliance notices
Certified Mail® tracking
HOA violation letters and annual meeting announcements
Invoices, checks, and account statements
Election mail, ballots, and secure communication

Digital can get lost in spam folders or unread inboxes. Mail gets opened, signed for, and taken seriously. But yes, you do need to keep up with postage changes—and know who’s actually handling your mail behind the scenes.

Preparing for the USPS July Price Increase

Here’s what we recommend:

Double-check your mailing budget – If you’re running recurring mailings or compliance letters, bake in the new postage rate starting mid-July.
Audit your mailings – Are you still sending return envelopes? Duplicating statements? Mailing to outdated addresses? This is a great time to streamline.
Use a platform like ours – If you’re still printing and stamping in-house, you’re not just absorbing postage increases—you’re paying in time, labor, and headaches.

Now’s the time to automate your print and mail process, make sure you’re sending the right pieces, and stop manually adjusting for rate changes.

Let’s Keep This Simple

To recap:

USPS postage is going up on July 13, 2025
LetterStream is not raising its prices
Your postage cost will reflect the new USPS rates automatically
Your mail will still go out fast, accurate, and tracked—without you lifting a finger

If you’ve never tried sending mail online with LetterStream, now’s a good time to make the switch.

We’ll keep printing, you stay focused on what matters because LetterStream makes print and mail a breeze!

USPS Releases New Baby Animal Forever Stamps—And They’re Pretty Darn Cute

See the official USPS Baby Wild Animal Stamps here: New USPS Stamps Celebrate the Irresistible Charm of Baby Wild Animals – Newsroom – About.usps.com

Let’s be real: the mail has never looked this adorable.

On May 23, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service dropped its newest Forever stamp series at the Rocky Mountain Stamp Show in Aurora, Colorado. The theme? Baby wild animals. The vibe? Wholesome woodland magic. The buzz? Totally deserved.

From chipmunks and bobcats to fuzzy owlets and curious foxes, this 10-stamp collection highlights some of North America’s most beloved little creatures in soft, playful colors that feel more storybook than safari. Think modern design meets nature documentary’s cutest B-roll.

What’s in the Set?

Here’s the roll call of the stars:
🦊 Fox
🦉 Owl
🦌 Deer
🦭 Seal
🐰 Rabbit
🦝 Raccoon
🐻 Bear
🦨 Skunk
🐱 Bobcat
🐿️ Chipmunk

They’re not photos—they’re stylized illustrations by artist Tracy Walker, designed in collaboration with art director Greg Breeding, who’s helped shape many of USPS’s most beloved releases.

Each one captures a bit of curiosity, a dash of mischief, and a whole lot of charm.

Yes, They’re Real Forever Stamps

These aren’t just for looking at. They’re official USPS Forever stamps, which means they’ll always cover a one-ounce First-Class letter, no matter how much postage rates rise in the future. Functional, yes. Frameable? Also yes.

They’re available in booklets of 20, featuring two of each design—perfect for everyday use or for collectors who appreciate the softer side of philately.

Where to Get Them

You can find the “Baby Wild Animals” stamps at post offices nationwide or order them online via the USPS Postal Store.

Just One More Reason to Love Mail

We might be a little biased, but this is exactly the kind of thing that keeps us excited about mail. It’s not just about getting something from point A to point B—it’s about adding a human touch, even when the message is short and sweet.

And if that message happens to come with a baby bobcat on the outside? Even better.

Remember, even though the USPS now has the cutest stamps out there, when it comes to sending business-critical mail, it’s still easier to do online. Click here for a free account and to learn more about how LetterStream helps you easily send mail online.

Sources:

USPS Newsroom – Baby Wild Animals Stamp Release
USPS Postal Bulletin – Stamp Info
Linn’s Stamp News – Rocky Mountain Stamp Show Coverage
USPS Postal Store – Purchase Baby Wild Animals Stamps

LetterStream’s 2025 Q1 Bonus Party at Snakes & Lattes!

Woohoo! It’s bonus party time again at LetterStream!

On Wednesday, May 21st, the LetterStream team headed to Snakes & Lattes in Tempe for our quarterly bonus celebration. The theme? Olympic Board Game Night. The vibe? Energized, connected, and a little competitive (in the fun way).

Let me tell you how it went.

A Night of Teamwork

We split into teams, grabbed some game boards, ate some food, sipped on yummy lattes, and dove in. No printers, no tracking numbers—just great people, games, and a lot of laughter.

Some teams came to win. Others just came to eat delicious food and roll dice. Either way we got to be together as a work family.

The board game “Olympics” wasn’t just a clever name—it turned into an actual team showdown, with rounds of strategy, bluffing, guessing, and cheering each other on.

We didn’t crown a champion, but let’s just say some teams walked away feeling very accomplished.

Food, Lattes, and That Off-the-Clock Magic

Snakes & Lattes was the perfect setting. Chill atmosphere, excellent menu, and enough coffee to keep us wide awake even after the longest round of Monopoly.

More importantly, it gave us the chance to catch our breath and catch up. These quarterly parties aren’t just about having a good time—they’re also about being together. Getting to talk about something other than mail job or turnaround times. It’s about saying thank you for the hard work that each team member puts in day after day, quarter after quarter, year after year. And a little bit about finding out who’s really good at trivia. Or who’s been quietly training for this moment their entire board-game-loving life. We’re here for it all.

Celebrating Accountability, LetterStream-Style

Each quarter, we highlight a core value, and this time, it was Accountability.

Just like every other bonus party we had a great slideshow to represent the last quarter and showcase our progress and even ways we can continue to improve. We also take the time to recognize new team members, highlights, promotions and new changes. We love to recognize that our team shows up for each other, owns their part of the process, and keeps things moving when it matters most. Q1 demanded that and our team delivered.

Like we mentioned above, this party was our way of saying thanks— in real time, with real connection and of course, with lots of really fun times!

Until Next Time…

To everyone who helped make the night happen—thank you. For showing up, playing along, and being the kind of team people are proud to be part of.

Q1’s in the books. Q2, we’re coming for you—with a little caffeine and a lot of momentum!

INTERNATIONAL MAIL SERVICE TO CANADA RESUMES: USPS Industry Alert

Mail to Canada From the USA Is Accepted Again as of Monday, January 6, 2025

NOTICE: Effective Monday, January 6, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will resume accepting International mail and packages bound for Canada.

We’re excited to report that Canada Post has made substantial progress in resolving delays resulting from the recent Canadian Union of Postal Workers strike. With services back on track, retail and commercial customers, along with users of online mailing systems, can now send letters, documents, and packages to Canada seamlessly, according to the USPS.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU? Great news! If you’ve been holding off on mailing to Canada, you can now proceed with confidence. As always, LetterStream is ready and eager to assist with sending your international mail quickly and securely.

If you had previously uploaded jobs to be sent to Canada, that were then placed on hold, they will now be resumed and sent out starting on January 6th. Be sure to check your account to see updates and status.

HOW LETTERSTREAM SUPPORTS YOUR MAILING NEEDS: As a printing and mailing company, it is our duty to closely monitor postal service news to ensure our customers stay informed of critical updates. Whether it’s temporary service interruptions or resumptions like this, we’re here to help you navigate your mailing needs with ease and reliability.

For the latest updates on International mailing statuses, the USPS provides information through its Service Alerts page. You can also visit the Canada Post Negotiations page for updates on their progress.