Facilities > Organization > Facilities Operations > Campus Services > Mail Services > Info for Employees > Postage Saving Tips

Postage Saving Tips

• For mailings with more than 5 pages, fold in half and place in a 6 x 9 envelope and save an average 41 cents. Do not use an envelope with a clasp; there is an extra USPS service fee.
• Double side your inserts to keep the weight down on you mail piece.
• Use Priority mail only for items out-of-state. Priority takes two to three day delivery time. Anything in-state sent out 1st class is delivered in that time.
• If you use Priority mail, use the envelopes and boxes provided by the USPS. These supplies are free and can be ordered online at USPS.com.
• Screen your mailing list for unnecessary names, duplicates and incomplete addresses.
• Use “Certified” instead of “Registered” mail whenever possible. It costs less and still provides a receipt and notice of delivery to the sender.
• Do not over-insure. The post office and UPS will pay only the actual value of an item, not the declared value.
• Use postcards for short messages or announcements. The cost is 35 cents.
• Combine mailings when possible into a larger envelope for distribution at the location.
• Use Business Reply envelopes provided by vendors instead of department envelopes.
• Fax the information when time is crucial, instead of using Express mail. If you do need something sent Express mail, use FedEx; their service is quicker and more economical.
• Request Library and Media rates whenever possible. Savings can be as much as 50 percent of the cost of 1st class mail, but it is slower.
• Use Intra-campus envelopes for on-campus mail. Use regular business envelopes for off-campus mailings only.
• Use Non-profit/Bulk Rate whenever possible for maximum savings.
• Use the most cost-effective shipping method - USPS Priority mail instead of Express, First-class instead of Priority mail.
• Use the smallest package or envelope that is practical for your mail piece. Whenever possible fold your outgoing mail, use a #10 business envelope rather than a larger, flat style.
• Only request a signature on Express mail when absolutely needed. There are now charges for signatures at residential and some business addresses.
• If you purchase 9 x 12 or 10 x 13 envelopes, order plain white or manila and not the ones with the green "First-Class" logo.
• To avoid potential damage to the envelopes and contents, use only 'peel-n-seal' or self-stick large envelopes, not the clasp type. There is a handling charge assessed by the US Postal Service on clasp-style envelopes when used for mailing purposes.
• Stamps can also be bought at the Village Mail Room.