United States Postal Service (USPS) is Raising Rates Again

It looks like the Unites States Postal Service is once again raising its rates for first class mail & shipping services in 2008. The new rates will increase just one year after a previous increase in prices.

This change isn't going to be too significant. Most prices announced will increase by a few cents.  However, each price increase just makes it harder & harder for online stores, eBayers, & entrepreneurs to keep expenses low & compete with larger companies.

Post Office is Increasing Prices of First Class, & Other Services

It looks as if First Class stamps will raise 1 cent. Which will make the cost 42 cents to mail a letter instead of 41 cent old rate.

Forever stamps will still be sold until the new price. If you purchase a forever stamp for 41 cents, you can use them "forever," regardless of the price change.

The post office has also announced increases in prices for Priority Mail, Express Mail, & other services.  However, they have not yet announced the specific price changes. Below are other changes that were announced:

-Large envelope, 2 ounces: $1 (up 3 cents).

-Money Orders up to $500: $1.05 (unchanged).

-Certified mail: $2.70 (up 5 cents).

-First-class international letter to Canada or Mexico: 72 cents (up 3 cents).

-First-class international letter to other countries: 94 cents (up 4 cents).

If you ship items frequently, you can expect your shipping expenses to go up.  I guess you can chalk this one up to the high gas prices & inflation. Sellers will need to start thinking outside the box to find ways to cut costs.