In these days of email, we don’t use USPS as much as we used to. Sure, it’s always nice to receive a thoughtful, handwritten letter. But for sheer convenience, email is the way to go.
And it’s the same for sending packages. FedEx, UPS, DPD: more often than not, people use these companies rather than the good old United States Postal Service. But sometimes, we still need USPS. And when we do, it can be tricky to work out how many stamps to use.
So, how many stamps do I need for 3 Oz packages?
Let’s find out!
Contents
How Does USPS Calculate How Many Stamps I Need?
When sending an item through USPS, you need to take into account three things before applying your stamp. That’s the size of your package, its weight, plus the address it’s traveling to. The further your package is going, the more it will cost.
Forever Stamps
A forever stamp is also known as a first-class stamp. This is the basic stamp you need for sending a 9”x12” standard envelope. Simply stick it in the top right-hand corner, and pop that envelope in your nearest USPS postal box.
How much does a forever stamp cost?
The price of forever stamps has risen drastically over the last while. Back in 2021, it cost just 58 cents, but that was increased twice in 2022. At the current time, a forever stamp will cost you 63 cents. And it doesn’t need to be boring! USPS has a whole host of stamps for celebrating any occasion, from Kwanzaa to Christmas! Take a peek in the store here to find a special way of marking your celebration.
How Many Stamps Should I Use?
OK, now you know about forever stamps. But what you may not be aware of is that forever stamps only cover letters up to 1 Oz in weight. If you have a bulkier envelope, it’ll cost a little extra.
That doesn’t mean you need an additional forever stamp for each ounce in weight. Instead, you pay a small surcharge depending on the size and weight. This makes it a little harder to calculate, but also saves money over buying two forever stamps.
How to calculate stamps for a 2 Oz package?
Assuming it’s a standard 9”x12” envelope, you’ll need to start with one forever stamp. From there, you’ll need to buy a 20-cent additional ounce stamp. That brings your total up to 83 cents for a 2 Oz package.
How many stamps do I need for 3 Oz packages?
Again, let’s assume you have a basic 9”x12” envelope. This time you’ll need two extra 20-cent stamps along with that forever stamp. This means your total stamp cost for a 3 Oz package should come out at around $1.03.
For both 2 Oz and 3 Oz letters, there is an alternative way of paying for postage. Sometimes it’s easier to simply apply two forever stamps instead of buying additional ounce stamps. However, this method is more expensive, and you’d be swapping costs for convenience.
How far can I send my 3 Oz package?
With USPS, you can send your item as far as you like! Distance is not an issue here. You can even send letters internationally to friends overseas! Unfortunately, the longer the distance, the higher the price. And international mail is the most expensive of all.
Take a peek at this handy postage calculator. Simply input a few details, such as zip code and package dimensions, and you’ll soon be able to find out the cost of your delivery.
Can I use a large envelope?
You can use almost any container you want to send an item with USPS. But it’s worth remembering that larger packages cost more to ship. And so do unusually-shaped items, such as square envelopes.
Large envelopes are also known as flats. They’re generally used for things like photographs and legal documents. For flats, expect to use two forever stamps plus as many additional-ounce stamps as you need for the weight of the envelope.
Need to buy some envelopes?
The USPS store has it all. From basic flats to padded manilla envelopes, you’re sure to find what you need here. It even has boxes, tape, and labels for larger packages.
How Many Stamps Do I Need For a Box?
Due to their size, boxes are usually more difficult to handle than envelopes. They’re also usually heavier. And often, they contain items that are breakable or need to be protected.
For these reasons, there’s no hard rule about how many stamps you need to send a box via USPS. The best thing to do in this case is to check the postage calculator I linked to earlier. Alternatively, you could take the package to your nearest post office to get an accurate cost.
Not sure where your closest office is?
Just check this handy USPS office locator. Just input your city, state, or zip code, as well as the maximum distance. It’ll bring every store near you in a matter of seconds.
Where You Can Buy Your Stamps?
If you don’t have a post office near you, then you’re probably wondering Does Walgreens Sell Stamps, Does Publix Sell Stamps, and Does Kroger Sell Stamps The Cost for your local grocers, or perhaps you’d like to know Does Walmart Sell Stamps, and Does Target Sell Stamps for your superstore options.
You might also want to know Do USPS Stamps Expire if you’re posting with USPS, as well as Can I Use Poly Mailers For USPS and for important documents, Does USPS Notarize Documents in 2023?
Lastly, for those of you moving to a new address, check out Does USPS Forward IRS And Other Government Mail, followed by Where Can I Drop off USPS Packages, How Much Is A PO Box At USPS, and what steps to take when your USPS Out For Delivery Never Came?
Final Thoughts
USPS is a fast, convenient, and affordable way to send packages and letters. And those small, 3 Oz or under items are the cheapest of all! Simply apply a forever stamp, then as many of those additional-ounce stamps as you need.
Just be sure to always weigh your item accurately! You don’t want any nasty surprises on the other end. And remember: if you’re ever in doubt, just head down to your local USPS office, and they’ll take care of everything for you.
All the best posting off your next package!
