For the last couple of years the USPS has been implementing their 10 year plan and have been raising prices two times a year. We are constantly being asked why the increases and why two times a year?
The Price increases are being driven mainly by 3 factors.
- Inflation (CPI)
- Volume Declines
- Retirement obligations.
As we all feel the pinch of inflation the USPS is not exempt. Rising operational costs, such as fuel prices, labor expenses, and infrastructure maintenance add to the strain on the USPS’s budget. With the rise of digital communication, traditional mail usage has decreased, leading to reduced revenue for the USPS. Retirement obligations have been and will always be an obligation as the USPS is one of the largest employers in the US with over 500,000 employees.
The USPS has been raising prices two times a year in order to maximize their increases based on regulations. The summer increase allows for a CPI increase while the winter increase does not. We can expect this trend to continue for the next year.
To help mitigate some of these costs regarding flats, consider folding an 8.5 x 11 piece of paper and mailing it a 6×9 envelope. A 6×9 envelope is still considered first class ($0.60 vs $1.18 for a flat).
In addition, consider outsourcing all of your printing, folding and mailing needs. Corporate Mailing Services has all the capabilities you need from data cleansing, printing, folding, inserting and the production of your mail for considerable savings over doing it in house.
