Sending Mail

Sending Mail in the United States

There are several options for sending mail in the US. The one that's right for you depends on what and where you're sending, how quickly you'd like your item delivered, and what services you'd like included. If you just need to send some documents and don't need fast delivery or any other services, you can use a standard First-Class letter with stamps. If you'd like faster delivery, tracking, and insurance, you can use Priority Mail, which is more expensive. If you'd like the fastest possible delivery, you can use Priority Mail Express, which is more expensive than either option.

Envelope Sizing

The size of envelope you should use depends on what you're sending and who you're sending it to. For example, the California Department of Public Health will accept documents folded to fit in a standard envelope, while the US Department of State will not. Be sure to check the policies of the organization you're sending to in order to ensure that your documents will be accepted.

Addressing your envelope

Refer to the Addressing an Envelope page.

Postage Stamps

A postage stamp is a small paper adhesive that shows you’ve paid for USPS mail delivery services. Unless you're using Priority Mail, any letter or package you send must have the correct amount of stamps based on its weight, size, and delivery speed.

Priority Mail

Priority Mail is ideal for items that need faster delivery than standard First-Class mail, or if you want tracking or insurance. It typically takes 1-3 business days for delivery.

Priority mail envelopes and boxes are available for free on the USPS website or at any post office. You only have to pay upon mailing the item.

How to mail the item

Once you've finished preparing your item, it's time to mail it.