First-Class Mail — Offered for postcards, letters or any advertisement or merchandise up to 13 ounces destined for either domestic or international delivery. Personal correspondence, handwritten or typewritten letters and bills or statements of account must be mailed via First-Class Mail, Express Mail or Priority Mail.
Standard Mail — Offered for any item, including advertisements and merchandise weighing less than 16 ounces, that is not required to be sent using First-Class Mail. Standard Mail is typically used for bulk advertising to multiple delivery addresses. Content restrictions apply for authorized nonprofit mailers.
Periodicals — Offered for newspaper, magazine and newsletter distribution. This service requires prior authorization by the Postal Service.
Package Services — Offered for any merchandise or printed matter weighing up to 70 pounds. These services include Single Piece Parcel Post, Bound Printed Matter, Library Mail and Media Mail.
Special Services — Offered for a variety of enhancements that add value to mail services. Many provide added security, proof of delivery or loss recovery. Examples of these services include: Certified Mail, Registered Mail, Delivery Confirmation, Signature Confirmation and insurance up to $1,000.
Money Orders — Are a special service offering a safe, convenient and economical alternative to sending cash through the mail. They can be purchased at any Post Office or from any rural route carrier and can be sent within the U.S. and to some foreign countries. Postal money orders are available for any amount up to $1,000. Money orders can be cashed at any Post Office or can be deposited or negotiated at financial institutions. The Postal Service will replace Money Orders that have been damaged, lost or stolen.
