Media Mail Rates 2020: A Comprehensive Guide
In the digital age, physical mail might seem old-fashioned, but it's far from obsolete. Media mail, a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS), remains a popular choice for sending books, manuscripts, and other printed media. If you're planning to use media mail in 2020, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the latest media mail rates, their applications, and some useful tips to help you make the most of this cost-effective shipping option.
Understanding Media Mail
Media mail is a USPS service designed for sending educational materials and other printed media at discounted rates. It's ideal for libraries, publishers, schools, and individuals sending books, films, CDs, and other media. The service offers slower delivery times than Priority Mail but is significantly cheaper, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious senders.
Media Mail Rates 2020: A Breakdown
As of January 26, 2020, the USPS has implemented new media mail rates. Here's a breakdown of the current rates for media mail, based on weight and zone:
| Weight (in pounds) | Zone 1-3 | Zone 4-5 | Zone 6-8 | Zone 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.00 | $3.45 | $3.85 | $4.25 |
| 2 | $4.00 | $4.45 | $4.85 | $5.25 |
| 3 | $5.00 | $5.45 | $5.85 | $6.25 |
| 4 | $6.00 | $6.45 | $6.85 | $7.25 |
| 5 | $7.00 | $7.45 | $7.85 | $8.25 |
| 10 | $13.00 | $13.45 | $13.85 | $14.25 |
Note: The rates above are for retail ground service. Commercial Plus Pricing (CPP) rates may apply for high-volume shippers.
What Can Be Sent via Media Mail?
Media mail is designed for educational, reference, and professional reading materials. Here's a list of acceptable items:
- Books
- Printed music
- Manuscripts
- Plaques
- Printed educational charts
- Sound recordings
- Videos and DVDs
- Photographic, film, and microfilm
Items that cannot be sent via media mail include:
- Enveloped letters and cards
- Periodicals (newspapers, magazines)
- Greeting cards
- Postcards
- Packets
- Parcels containing hazardous or restricted materials
Tips for Using Media Mail Effectively
To make the most of media mail, consider the following tips:
- Package your items securely to prevent damage during transit.
- Use appropriate packaging materials, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
- Consider using USPS-provided packaging, like Priority Mail boxes, for added protection.
- Ensure your packages are under 70 pounds and no more than 130 inches in combined length and girth.
- Print and attach your shipping label online to save time at the post office.
- Consider using USPS's Click-N-Ship service for added convenience.
Final Thoughts
Media mail remains an affordable and reliable shipping option for sending printed media. By understanding the latest media mail rates and following the tips outlined above, you can make the most of this service in 2020. Whether you're a publisher, a librarian, or an individual sending books to friends and family, media mail offers a cost-effective solution for your shipping needs.
