What is presorted First Class mail
Presorted First-Class Mail is a category of mail in the United States that includes letters, postcards, and flats (large envelopes) that meet specific sorting requirements before being handed over to the United States Postal Service (USPS). The primary characteristic of Presorted First-Class Mail is that the mailpieces must be presorted by the mailer based on certain criteria, such as ZIP codes or destination addresses.
Key features of Presorted First-Class Mail include:
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Presorting Requirement: Mailers are required to presort their mailpieces based on destination ZIP codes to receive discounted postage rates. This means grouping the mail by ZIP code in a specific order before submitting it to the USPS.
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Barcoding: In addition to presorting, mailers often include intelligent mail barcodes (IMb) on their mailpieces. Barcodes help automate the sorting process at USPS facilities, leading to more efficient processing and faster delivery.
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Get Postage Discounts: The presorting and intelligent mail barcoding efforts made by mailers make mail processing more cost-effective for the USPS. In return, the mailers are eligible for discounted postage rates compared to regular First-Class Mail.
| Weight Not Over (oz.) |
Automation1,2 | Single Piece | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Digit | AADC | Mixed AADC | |||
| 1 | $0.498 | $0.537 | $0.561 | $0.66 | |
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Delivery Speed: Presorted First-Class Mail typically enjoys a faster delivery speed compared to standard or bulk mail. While it may not be as fast as Priority Mail or Express Mail, it is prioritized over standard mailings.
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Requirements for Qualification: To qualify for Presorted First-Class Mail rates, mailers must meet specific volume thresholds and adhere to USPS requirements regarding address accuracy, barcoding, and presorting.
Presorted First-Class Mail is often used by businesses and organizations that regularly send out large volumes of mail. The presorting requirements are designed to help the USPS streamline its sorting and delivery processes, providing cost savings for both the postal service and the mailers. Keep in mind that specific rules and requirements may be subject to change, so it's advisable to check the latest USPS guidelines for Presorted First-Class Mail if you are planning to use this service.
- AccuZIP Tech Note: How to obtain a USPS Permit for mailing in bulk online
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