USPS Launches Changes To First-Class Mail, Other Services
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The United States Postal Service (USPS) has begun implementing the next phase of its service standard refinements as part of ongoing efforts to improve mail delivery for customers nationwide.
Why It Matters
The service refinements represent a continued effort by the USPS to modernize operations amid ongoing financial challenges. The agency has faced financial difficulties in recent years and introduced its "Delivering For America" plan - a 10-year initiative designed to restore the Postal Service's financial sustainability and maintain reliable service to its 169 million delivery addresses across the country - in 2021. In the fiscal year ending September 2024, it reported a $9.5 billion loss, up from a $6.5 billion net loss in 2023.
Service standards, which dictate expected delivery times, are central to the agency's "Delivering for America" transformation plan.
What To Know
This round of changes, beginning July 1, includes expanding service standard bands for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage, following earlier dispatch times from regional processing and distribution centers.
The adjustment will increase the reach of 2, 3, and 4-day service standards for these mail categories, aiming to provide more predictable delivery for Americans.
The USPS has also extended the geographic scope of "turnaround" volume—mail and package volume that both originates and destinates within a facility's service area.
As a result, single-piece First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage sent within these local areas will now receive updated two- or three-day service standards.
These changes are estimated to save the USPS at least $36 billion over the next decade through operational efficiencies, including reductions in transportation, mail processing, and real estate costs, the agency said.
Stock image/file photo: A USPS mailbox.
Stock image/file photo: A USPS mailbox.
GETTY
New Stamp Releases
Alongside the operational changes, USPS also announced several new stamp releases. The 2025 lineup includes the Holiday Cheer stamps—featuring festive flora and cardinals—that will be issued on September 13 in Washington, D.C., and an Elie Wiesel stamp honoring the renowned humanitarian, launching September 17 in New York City. A new series of Forever stamps celebrating "SpongeBob SquarePants" will debut August 1 in Times Square, New York.
Collectors and customers can purchase these and other upcoming stamps at usps.com/shopstamps or participating post offices nationwide.
What Happens Next
Postal customers can review updated service standards using the interactive map at USPS Service Standards. The agency continues to monitor the rollout and will provide ongoing updates on its "Delivering for America" progress. Further information and downloadable standards are available via the USPS website and PostalPro platform.
New stamp prices could also be on the way beginning this month. The USPS announced on April 9 that it has filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission to request a 7.4-percent increase in mailing prices, to take effect on July 13.
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