Didn't the new postage rates go into effect April 17th? The old prices are coming up to mail a book and that could cause a lot of problems.

What is the new price to mail a package? It looks like it went from $1.22 for an ounce first class to $1.71. That's a pretty big hike. I think you use a package rate for a book and not the large envelope rate.

You have to use the package rate, because a book is too thick for the large envelope rate (and also non-bendable, which is another requirement).  The $1.71 seems to be for all packages under 3 ounces.

The usps.com page has a postage calculator, if you know the weight.  The media mail rates are $2.41 for the first pound, 41 cents for each additional pound.  Anything under 7 ounces is cheaper First Class.

Thanks, that's what I thought. Hope they fix the site soon.

There is a small discount now for using the printable postage.

How do I get information about using  printable postage?    Thank you.   M'ann

The current rates, and the discount, are in the Current Postal Rates help doc.

Hi Everyone,

 My name is Lauren and I work closely with USPS and I thought I’d chime in here to help.

 This week they introduced Commercial Base Pricing for First Class Mail Parcels. Commercial Base Pricing for First Class Mail basically gives you a 15 Cent savings over retail prices at your Post Office.  Anytime you print postage online – you’ll receive the Commercial Base Prices.

 Hope this helps! 

How do I get Commercial Base Pricing and what kind of fee is charged for using it?    M'ann

Use online postage from any of the online services and you will get the Commercial Base pricing.

Oh, I don't, so I guess that leaves me out. Thanks for the quick reply.   Blessings    M'ann

so id  you used the printable postage   here  you will get a discount as shown below

but if you go th the post office..  no discount

Current  USPS First-Class Parcel rates:
Effective April 17, 2011
*Note USPS discount for printing First Class postage!

Not over 1 ounce..............................$1.71...1.56 with Printable Postage
Not over 2 ounces..............................1.71...1.56 with Printable Postage
Not over 3 ounces..............................1.71...1.56 with Printable Postage
Not over 4 ounces..............................1.88...1.73 with Printable Postage
Not over 5 ounces..............................2.05...1.90 with Printable Postage
Not over 6 ounces..............................2.22...2.07 with Printable Postage
Not over 7 ounces..............................2.39...2.24 with Printable Postage

Mailed several Media Mail packages Saturday, and my postal staff noticed that some of the PBS suggested postage amounts were correct and some were incorrect.  Due to packaging and combined book weight I didn't think much of it at the time.