Postal Service Launches Major Upgrades to Priority Mail

Newly redesigned Priority Mail boxes and envelopes are available in Post Offices and online at usps.com with many Priority Mail Flat Rate sizes and pricing. Express Mail services will continue as Priority Mail Express, providing next day service with a money-back guarantee and up to $100 of free insurance.

The Postal Service has seen strong growth in its package business, which grew more than 14 percent over the last two years. This e-commerce-fueled growth trend is projected to continue for the next decade. Online consumers are expected to increase their spending by 62 percent by 2016 and U.S. E-commerce retail sales are expected to grow by 41 percent to $370 billion annually by 2017.

“With e-commerce driving major changes in shipping habits, and consumers becoming more reliant on delivery services, the Postal Service can play an increasingly vital role as a driver of growth opportunities for America’s businesses,” noted Manabe. “We expect our Priority Mail product will continue to be very popular.”

Donahoe added, “Our customers see strong value in the national delivery platform we provide, and we anticipate continued package growth as small businesses take advantage of our new Priority Mail offerings.”

Other competitive advantages of Priority Mail products will continue to be the following:

• No hidden charges—no fuel or residential surcharges.
• Free supplies—free boxes and envelopes delivered at no charge.
• Free package pickup—regardless of the number of packages.
• Multiple packaging options—full family of variable and Flat Rate packaging with a variety of package sizes and pricing.

The Postal Service plans to educate business and residential customers about its new Priority Mail products through an integrated marketing campaign that will extend through the holiday season.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.