Tag: usps postage

Many Postage Meters Are Out Of Date – Here’s What You Need To Know

If you’re still using an Information-Based Indicia (IBI) postage meter, we have some news for you: it’s officially out of date.

As of June 30, 2024, the United States Postal Service (USPS) said farewell to the IBI USPS postage meter machines, making way for the more advanced Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) technology. If you’re wondering what this means for your business, don’t worry—we’re here to break it all down for you, and more importantly, show you how to avoid any mailing disruptions.

Why Did USPS Phase Out IBI Meters?

IBI meters had a good run, but they just weren’t cutting it anymore. The USPS decided to phase them out in favor of IMI meters for several key reasons, according to USPS | Postal Pro:

  • Enhanced Security: IMI meters incorporate advanced security measures to prevent fraud and ensure the integrity of postage.
  • Real-Time Data Transmission: IMI devices provide immediate transaction data to the USPS, facilitating more efficient mail processing and tracking.
  • Improved Compliance: The new IMI standard ensures accurate postage calculation and adherence to USPS regulations, minimizing errors and potential mailing issues.

What This Means for Your Business

If your postage meter machine still relies on IBI technology, it’s time to take action. You don’t want to find yourself unable to send important business mail at the worst possible moment. The good news is, you have options:

  1. Upgrade to an IMI Meter: Many postage meter providers offer IMI-compliant machines, but this means another round of purchasing, setup, and maintenance.
  2. Go Meter-Free: Instead of investing in new hardware, you can opt for a smarter, more efficient alternative—one that doesn’t require a physical meter at all. If this sounds like it’s up your ally, keep reading.

Skip the Meter Drama—Let LetterStream Handle It

Why wrestle with USPS postage meter regulations and upgrades when there’s a better way? We offer a modern, hassle-free solution that eliminates the need for postage meters altogether. Cool, huh?

Here’s how LetterStream can help:

  • Send Real Mail Online: With just a few clicks, you can send physical mail without ever touching a meter.
  • No Equipment, No Maintenance: If you’re thinking about getting a postage meter then a question you’re asking yourself is, “How much does a postage meter cost?” Guess what, it doesn’t matter because when you outsource with us you get to say goodbye to the cost and hassle of maintaining a postage meter.
  • USPS Compliance: We handle the regulations and postage requirements so you don’t have to.
  • Scalability: Whether you’re sending a handful of letters or thousands, we can easily handle the volume.
  • Get Your Mail Out Fast: 99% of all mail gets sent out by the next business day. Now that’s fast.

Simplifying Your Mailing Without Postage Meters

The USPS has officially moved on from IBI postage meters, and it’s time for businesses to do the same. Instead of worrying about upgrading to an IMI meter, why not take this opportunity to simplify your mailing process? LetterStream offers an easy, efficient, and cost-effective way to send mail without the headache of hardware.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make your mailing process smarter, faster, and meter-free. Your business (and your budget) will thank you!

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail and First-Class Mail or FedEx 2Day and 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.

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What You Need to Know About the January 21, 2024 USPS Postage Increase

Well, it seems to be that time of year again. The time when the United States Postal Service (USPS) has a postage rate increase. If you’re feeling like this is happening a lot, well, you’re not wrong. The Postal Service raised their prices twice in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and now we’re starting off 2024 with another USPS postage increase.

January 2024 USPS Postage Price Increase

Effective January 21, 2024, the cost of mailing letters, packages, and other USPS services will climb slightly across the board. While the average increase sits at a modest 4.3%, it’s still cause for pause, especially for businesses and high-volume senders.

Here’s a Breakdown of the Key Changes for the Postage Rate Increase in January 2024:

  • First-Class postage increase for letters (1 oz.) is going up from $0.66 up to $0.68 cents
  • Certified Mail Postage is going from $4.35 up to $4.40
  • Certified Mail | Add-On Electronic Return Receipt price is going from $2.20 up to $2.32
  • Certified Mail | Add-On Green Card price is going from $3.55 up to $3.65
  • International Letters (1 oz.) are going from $1.50 up to $1.55
  • Domestic Postcards are going from $0.51 up, to $0.53
  • International Postcards are going from $1.50 up to $1.55
  • Registered Mail is going from $20.25 up to $20.75
  • Registered Mail | Add-On Electronic Return Receipt price is going from $5.65 up to $5.80
  • Extra Ounces (Letters) staying at $0.24
  • Extra Ounces (Flats) staying at $0.24
  • First-Class Mail Forever Stamp is $0.68

How to Handle the USPS Postage Increase?

These adjustments, while seemingly small, can accumulate over time, impacting both individuals and businesses. So, what can you do to navigate the new United States Postal Service postage increase?

Shop around: Not everything has to be sent via USPS. You may want to look at other options, such as FedEx 2Day to send a letter. You might be surprised at the fact that there’s another service with a faster delivery option.

Embrace technology: Leverage online shipping tools and platforms to compare rates, Make your life easier and more convenient and track your letters efficiently. Remember, time is money and removing the hassle of making trips to the Post Office to send your letter or to buy stamps is something to embrace on its own! Hi! LetterStream here. This is exactly what we do!

The 2024 USPS postage increase is a reality, but it doesn’t have to derail your mailing habits. By being informed and adaptable, you can adjust your strategies, find smarter solutions, and keep your letters moving without breaking the bank. Remember, a little planning and resourcefulness can go a long way in the ever-evolving world of postage.

LetterStream Is on Your Side!

For customers familiar with our process, you know we do raise our prices each time the USPS raises their rates.  But our increase is only the amount needed to cover the added postage costs. So, while your bill might look a little higher, the extra money is only going to the United States Postal Service.  LetterStream seldom raises our prices and works hard to keep your prices locked in for the long haul so that your mailing budget is consistent and predictable. If you want to send First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, postcards, or FedEx envelopes for any of your secure and important documents just remember that we’re on your side!

Keep in mind, if you’re looking for an electronic way to send your statements, we provide an email delivery service (eDoc Delivery), which allows you to send your documents via email directly through your LetterStream account. This can be done in place of real mail or in addition to your snail mail. If you’d like more information or if you’d like to add this product to your account, please feel free to send us an email at support@letterstream.com.

Now it’s your turn: How will these changes affect your mailing habits? Are you already preparing for the next postage increase? Share your thoughts and cost-saving tips in the comments below! Let’s help each other navigate the new postage landscape together.

Click here to review the USPS 2024 postage rate press release and click here to download the complete list of 2024 USPS postage rate changes.

Just a friendly reminder about a little pro tip we have: if you would like to get the old pricing but don’t want to send your mailing out before the effective Jan 21, 2024 date, you can always use our schedule job option to schedule your job to be mailed on a future date! That way you’ll still get the current (old pricing) but it won’t go out until the date you choose.