Sending packages could get faster and cheaper, USPS says. Here’s what to know

Tanasia Kenney
·1 min read
6

The U.S. Postal Service is changing the way it ships to ensure your packages arrive on time.

On July 9, USPS Ground Advantage will launch nationwide to offer a faster, more affordable shipping option, the Postal Service said in a news release.

Packages will arrive in two to five business days across the continental U.S., and customers will have the option of free pick-up at home or in-office, officials said.

The USPS says the service will be cheaper than shipping options offered in the past — though it only saves a few cents.

USPS Ground Advantage will offer other features, including:

  • Return service for business customers who need to send items back.

  • $100 insurance included on outbound and return packages.

  • Primary option for shipping packages containing hazardous materials that can only be sent via Ground Transportation.

Packages weighing more than 15.9 ounces will be charged by the pound, and tracking is included, according to the USPS website.

While shipping packages is expected to get cheaper, it will soon cost more to mail other items.

Earlier this year, the USPS announced plans to hike postage prices to offset rising inflation, McClatchy News reported.

First-Class mail Forever Stamps will jump from 63 cents to 66 cents, and the price to send a domestic postcard will increase to 51 cents. The new prices take effect July 9, the service said.

The price for a single-piece letter and the flat additional-ounce price will remain 24 cents.

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