Priority Mail

What is priority mail?

When people have items to mail or ship, they typically seek out one of the top shipping carriers, USPS being one of them. But what if their items need to be delivered within a certain time frame—and the sooner, the better? USPS offers priority mail service, which delivers envelopes and packages within two to three business days (including Saturday delivery).

The priority mail service is quicker than first-class mail and USPS ground advantage, both of which feature delivery time frames of up to five days. Priority mail has the next-fastest delivery speed, followed by priority mail express service, which has a guaranteed arrival of one to three days. 

To use priority mail, customers can purchase a USPS flat-rate envelope or box or bring their own packaging to their local post office, then pay for and mail their items. USPS also offers a convenient Click-N-Ship option, where customers can buy priority mail postage online, print the shipping label, then either schedule a free package pickup at their home or office or drop off the item at the post office.

FAQs 

How much does priority mail cost?

Priority mail prices vary depending on the type of packaging and the item’s destination. Flat rates for priority mail packages start at $10.10 for envelopes and $10.65 for boxes. If customers bring their own shipping materials, priority mail service prices start at $9.35 and are based on weight and how far the package is traveling. To find the estimated shipping cost for priority mail items before you arrive at the local post office, use the retail postage price calculator on the USPS website.

What are the benefits of priority mail?

USPS priority mail is a speedy delivery service that isn’t as expensive as priority mail express. It includes priority mail tracking and insurance coverage of up to $100, no extra charge for using priority mail flat-rate envelopes or boxes, and flat-rate pricing without needing to weigh items under 70 pounds.

What is the difference between priority mail and certified mail?

Priority mail is a shipping option, while certified mail provides proof of mailing and delivery. Customers can add on the certified mail option to their priority mail shipment to see when the package is delivered.

What happens if priority mail doesn’t arrive on time?

Priority mail shipping and delivery dates are not guaranteed; instead, they are noted as “expected,” meaning that there is no money-back guarantee. To guarantee a delivery date and get refunded if it doesn’t arrive on time, choose priority mail express, a U.S. Postal Service shipping option that promises delivery within one to three days (Sunday and holiday delivery may be included for an extra cost).