Proposed USPS 2016 Price Increases.  Includes first class.

See pdf file link:  http://www.prc.gov/docs/93/93564/Notice%20CP2016-9.pdf

-- Jill

Thanks for posting. I'm no expert but I skimmed and it looks like Priority Mail including flat rate boxes would go up ~10%, a bit of an increase in first class & standard (aka hazardous materials) packages, and an increase in international package cost including to Canada. No change to domestic first class envelopes or media mail.

Wow tons of changes, though not a ton that would affect PBS members. Of interest to people here, First Class Packages will increase from 13oz to 15.999 ounces. While Media Mail is cheaper at that point, I know some people like to pay a little more to get it there faster, so your options in that regard are expanding. 

Oh, I didn't catch that, Becca. Thanks. That is a good option to have for smaller paperbacks when the price difference isn't that big.

Anyone know if this still keeps PO cheaper than using UPS or Fedex?

For books that are eligible for Media Mail, USPS is still much cheaper. For other types of packages, it really just depends. 

UPS and Fed Ex are way more expensive.  Way. 

IF you have a heavier package and you want to mail Priority, just order some of the padded flat rate PM envelopes from USPS.com

Up to 70 pounds is $6.10 at the window and $5.70 using USPS.com print n' ship.  (that was 2015 rates, not sure what the new ones will be, probably not much more).   Most POs do not carry these padded envelopes. 

I think it would be an exceptional item that was 70lb and still able to fit into a flat rate PM envelope LOL

Important update: Shipping through USPS.com will now be the retail prices, not the discounted online prices... Not something normally used for PBS since they don't offer First Class or Media Mail, but good to be aware of if you print other postage online...

Regarding small but heavy packages, I work for the postal service. A couple of years ago a guy came in with a flat rate medium box filled with lead bars someone was going to use to make their own ammo. Weighed 65 pounds and cost the going flat rate of $12 and something. He used quite a bit of stringed strapping tape. Parcel arrived at destination 2 days later.

The padded Priority Flat Rate envelopes that wintertriangle mentioned can be ordered from usps.com.  They are free.  I think they come in a pack of 10.  They are a little bit bigger than the cardboard envelopes and a lot more flexible.

Becca, I recently sent a large packet of info to Social Security in a legal priority envelope and the receipt at the USPS site said it was a discounted price.

ETA:  I may need to check the date I mailed it.  It could have been before 1/1/16.

ETA:  I mailed it 1/4/16 and usual price of legal priority envelope is $5.90.  I was charged $5.25 on line at USPS site.

the new rates are not in effect yet. I think it may be the 16th when it changes.

It's the 17th.

-- Jill

well, I knew it was on a Sunday I just didn't know what day Sunday was.

I've got quite a few things I need to get mailed this week, then.  Thanks.