On May 1, the Postal Service will implement changes to the First-Class Package Service (FCPS) service standards. According to USPS, modifying these service standards will allow for additional transport time for long-distance package deliveries and increase network efficiencies.

Customers still have the option for faster delivery service using Priority Mail, meanwhile, FCPS will remain a lower cost option for customers who are not in a rush, and ultimately, delivery times will be more consistent and reliable.

The new FCPS service standards will also enable additional package volume to be transported by surface transportation, which is more reliable and affordable compared to air transportation.

According to USPS:

• 64% of First-Class Package Service volume will be unaffected by the proposed standard changes
• 4% will be upgraded from a 3-day to 2-day service standard
• 32% will increase by one or two days

Additionally, the Postal Service is removing an extra day for Priority Mail transported via ground. The extra day was temporarily put in place in April 2020 to account for ongoing global supply chain, transportation, and employee availability challenges across our network posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read more on the USPS newsroom

At Quadient, we’ve been staying on top of all the mailing and shipping news so we can bring you the highlights and keep you in the know. Earlier this year, we have written an article about USPS® Mail Slowdown and Delays - and HOW TO AVOID THEM! You can read it here.

You also can keep up with the latest mailing, shipping, and postage rate news by subscribing to our newsletter mailing list. No matter what the future brings, we are here to help improve your mailing and shipping processes.

Related articles:

• 3 Ways to Reduce Shipping Costs
• USPS® Mail Slowdown and Delays - and HOW TO AVOID THEM!

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