USPS to Replace First-Class Package Service with USPS Ground Advantage

July 10, 2023 update: USPS Ground Advantage™ is now in effect.

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The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced its plans to replace its existing First-Class Package Service category with a new offering called USPS Ground Advantage. This move comes as part of the USPS's ongoing efforts to improve its package delivery services and better compete with other shipping carriers. Pending approval, this change will go into effect along with postal rate changes on July 9, 2023

Overview of USPS Ground Advantage:

• Ground shipping service
• 2-5 day delivery standard
• Packages weighing up to 70 lbs.
• Commercial and retail prices available
• Free Package Pickup
• Tracking included
• Certificate of Mailing and Certified Mail not available

According to USPS, USPS Ground Advantage will offer lower prices than the existing First-Class Package Service, which is currently the USPS's most popular package delivery option.

The First-Class Package Service was previously limited to lightweight packages up to 15.999 ounces. Still, in January 2023, USPS redefined it by removing Retail Ground and Parcel Select Ground and expanding the weight limit to 70 pounds. In July 2023, USPS Ground Advantage will replace Retail Ground, Parcel Select Ground, and First-Class Package Service.

Whit USPS Ground Advantage, the price for shipping items weighing up to 15.999 oz is determined by both their weight (rounded up to 4 oz, 8 oz, 12 oz, and 15.999 oz) and the distance to their destination. For packages weighing more than 15.999 oz, the shipping fee is based on a per-pound rate up to a maximum weight of 70 lbs (rounded up).

However, some optional features currently available with First-Class Package Service will not be included in USPS Ground Advantage. Customers will no longer be able to use Certificate of Mailing and Certified Mail with USPS Ground Advantage, but these services will still be offered with alternative products such as Priority Mail.

USPS Ground Advantage aims to offer faster delivery times and more reliable tracking information, and it will be available for both commercial and residential customers. The new USPS Ground Advantage service will be cheaper, faster, and better at helping you schedule shipments and manage customer returns.

Source: USPS Ground Advantage

These changes are currently awaiting approval, and we will keep a close eye on all developments and provide you with the most recent updates. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news. No matter what the future brings, we are here to help improve your mailing and shipping processes.

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