As we approach the midpoint of 2023, changes are coming to the US Postal Service. Another rate hike is on its way this summer, which makes this the perfect time to re-evaluate your postal strategy and find ways to save on every direct mail campaign.
Postage Rate Increases in July 2023
Here’s what to expect for basic mail pieces from July 2023 USPS price hikes:
| Product | Current Price | July 2023 Price |
| Letters (1 oz.) | 63 cents | 66 cents |
| Letters (metered 1 oz.) | 60 cents | 63 cents |
| Domestic Postcards | 48 cents | 51 cents |
| International Postcards | $1.45 | $1.50 |
| International Letter (1 oz.) | $1.45 | $1.50 |
Further details on other price increases, including pricing changes for flat-rate boxes and envelopes, can be found more on the USPS Postal Explorer portal. Price changes will go into effect on July 9, 2023.
Save Money on Postage with These Easy Tips
With a few smart strategies – and a little guidance from your trusted printing partner! – you’d be surprised how much you can save on your postage costs. Our team is experienced in all the details of the mailing process, and we can help identify areas where small shifts can lead to big savings. A few top suggestions would include:
Utilize Postal Promotions
USPS offers annual postal promotions that offer discounts on qualifying mail types and campaigns. The promotions for 2023 highlight emerging and advanced technology, retargeting, Informed Delivery, and more. Talk to your printing partner to learn more and navigate the process of registering, developing campaigns that qualify, and mailing the qualified pieces.
Choose the Right Mailing Class
There are so many different options for mailing that it can be overwhelming! Mailing your pieces using the best “class” option can help your team save, especially when handling bulk mailings. First Class Mail, Marketing Mail (including Every Door Direct Mail), and Non-Profit Mail each offer different perks for using them, which your printing partner can help you figure out. Automated and presorted mail options are also on the table, which can lead to even more cost-effectiveness.
Improve Data Hygiene
Are your mailing lists as efficient as they could be? You might be spending more than you need to if your lists include duplicates, outdated or undeliverable addresses, and other data points that result in “wasted” mailings. Talk to your mailing partner about upgrading your data hygiene practices to update lists, reduce the rate of undeliverable mail, and avoid spending money on wasted postage costs.
Make Smart Packaging Choices
Mailing something in a larger package? Look for ways to streamline the process and save money in the process. Consider using smaller or customizable boxes, reducing layers of packaging and filler, maximizing the strategic use of space, and varying shipping materials to lower weight and size dimensions. Your packing and shipping experts can help you find the solutions that are best for your specific purposes.