Stamps.com is the only software in the industry that allows users to print stamps for First-Class Mail® letters like letters and postcards, and we make it fast and easy to create and print NetStamps and to get all First-Class Mail handled efficiently. This guide will go into everything you need to know about NetStamps and how to print and use them.
What Are NetStamps?
NetStamps are the easiest way to print your own stamps. Simply buy postage on Stamps.com, use any printer to print on a NetStamps sheet or roll, and stick the NetStamp to an envelope, postcard, or other First Class Mail.
NetStamps are approved by USPS® and are specially designed to work with the USPS processing systems. They include security features to protect you and deter postage fraud.
If you are new to printing NetStamps, please review our Printer Setup and Print Sample NetStamps articles for guidance on your printer settings and properly loading your NetStamps sheets into your printer.
How Do I Create and Print My NetStamps?
To create and print your NetStamps:
Go to the “Mail” tab in the toolbar.
Choose “NetStamps” from the “Print On” drop-down menu.
Enter the NetStamps sheet or roll serial number into the “Serial #” field.
Tip: The serial number for sheets is located on the top right corner of each sheet. The serial number for rolls is included on each stamp of the roll. This serial number lets our software know the style and format of your NetStamps. Once entered, the preview will update to display the corresponding NetStamps type.
Choose whether to calculate the postage amount or specify the postage amount.
Calculate postage amount: Use this option if you want our software to calculate the amount for each stamp. Amount is determined based on the type and weight of your mailpiece and its destination (either domestic or international).
Specify postage amount: Use this option if you need to print a pre-determined amount for each stamp.
Select “Mail From” address (if other than default) and “Destination Country” (if mailing to a country other than the U.S.).
Enter the weight of your mailpiece. If using a connected postal scale, click “Weight.”
We set the default weight to 1 oz, which is about the weight of an envelope with five sheets of paper. If your mailpiece weighs more than 1 oz, be sure to update the weight to avoid having the mailpiece returned for insufficient postage. We recommend using a postal scale for accurate weights.
Select your desired service from the “Service” drop-down menu.
Select how many stamps you wish to print.
When printing a NetStamps sheet: If you do not print a full sheet, our software will remember which stamps were printed and select the next unused stamp as the starting point the next time you print NetStamps. You can also manually select which label to start with.
Optionally, you can enter a Reference Number and/or select a Cost Code, which can be useful for tracking your postage expenses.
You’re now ready to print your NetStamps! Click “Print Postage” and you’re done.
Notes About Printing NetStamps
NetStamps do not expire after printing.
The “X” marking on NetStamp rolls signals the beginning and end of the roll. This marking helps when loading the roll and lets you know when to replace it. Do not use these stamps for mailing purposes. If you accidentally print a NetStamp with an “X” marking, you can request a refund for the print.
You cannot print USPS postage stamps on plain paper. You must use official NetStamps sheets or rolls, which are approved by USPS for printing postage stamps.
You can use NetStamps for both domestic and international postcards and letters.
You can use a combination of traditional stamps and NetStamps on the same mailpiece as long as it adds up to the correct postage amount. For optimal delivery speed, USPS recommends putting the largest denomination in the upper right corner.
You can use NetStamps on either plain or window envelopes or domestic First-Class Mail Flat/Large Envelopes. However, for packages, or Priority Mail® class shipments, you must instead create and print a shipping label.
You can print either a partial or full NetStamps sheet. A full sheet contains 25 NetStamps. If you choose not to print a full sheet, you can re-insert the sheet into your printer and select the first unused label on the sheet the next time you print.
You cannot print multiple NetStamps sheets at a time. You are currently limited to one sheet per print session. Consider using NetStamps Rolls with a 2″ thermal printer if you need to print in larger quantities.
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Hundreds of thousands of small businesses have already discovered the benefits of using Stamps.com to simplify their mailing and shipping needs.
Start shipping from home with a free 30-day trial to Stamps.com.
Jourden is a writer, editor, dancer, and artist who is passionate about bringing storytelling and editorial excellence to everything she writes and creates. In her spare time, she plays tennis and video games, and she loves cozying up with her cats and corgi while watching a Studio Ghibli movie.
Every minute spent printing labels is time better spent focusing on your business. When you’re juggling multiple tasks, you need an easier way to print shipping labels and postage to efficiently send invoices, letters, packages, and more. With Stamps.com, you have the freedom to easily create and print both domestic and international shipping labels using any of our available carriers: USPS, UPS, DHL Express, and GlobalPost.
When your business operates across different locations, you need easy access to your entire mailing and shipping workflow. Stamps.com allows you to streamline sending and ship confidently knowing you have access to discounted carrier rates. Eliminate guesswork with features like Rate Advisor, which reliably calculates the most cost-effective and fastest shipping and mailing options, and print on-demand from anywhere at any time.
Before you start printing, we’re here to answer any questions you may have by guiding you through the process, step-by-step.
What’s the Difference Between NetStamps and Shipping Labels?
Both NetStamps and Shipping Labels help your item reach its desired destination, however, there are some key distinctions.
Shipping labels are the ideal solution for shipping packages as well as mailing with flat-rate envelopes and large envelopes/flats. While you can use NetStamps with letters, postcards, and large envelopes, they do not include return and delivery address information. Shipping labels offer a significant advantage because they include postage as well as the delivery and return address. For most services, shipping labels also include tracking and allow scheduling a pickup. You’ll need a Stamps.com account to start printing NetStamps. Don’t have one yet? Click below to try Stamps.com risk-free for 30 days.
First, identify what shipping-label size you need. The most common shipping label size is the 4″ x 6″, but if your requirements are different, Stamps.com supports multiple shipping label sizes.
You may be wondering: do I need any specific supplies to print shipping labels? You can print USPS or UPS shipping labels on label sheets or plain paper using a standard inkjet or laser printer, or you can use a thermal label printer with label rolls (recommended for higher volume printing needs). Stamps.com also supports flexibility: our online store sells many types of shipping label sheets and rolls, suitable for any kind of printer you use.
Before printing your first label, we recommend printing a sample label to ensure your printer is configured correctly. Review our Print a Sample Label help article for details.
If your account is on the ecommerce plan– or a legacy plan that supports the Orders feature– and you would like to learn about creating labels to ship ecommerce orders, review our Ship Ecommerce Orders help article.
You’re ready to print
Now you’re ready to create and print your own shipping label. Follow these steps for smooth shipping and mailing:
1. Go to the Mail tab.
2. Select what you will print your label on from the Print On drop-down menu.
Your selection will depend on what type of printer you are using and the type of paper you are using in that printer.
3. Set your Ship From if shipping from a location other than the default location.
4. Set your Delivery Address fields.
Ship To country: For domestic shipments, keep the country drop-down set to the United States. For international shipments, set the country drop-down to the destination country.
Ship To address: Enter the delivery address manually or select from your Contacts list.
5. Enter an email address into the Email Tracking field if you want to send a confirmation email to your recipient.
6. Enter the weight of your package. Or, if you use a postal scale, click Weight.
Flat Rate envelopes and boxes do not need to be weighed to calculate postage. However, these package types do have weight restrictions.
7. Select your desired service and package type from the Service drop-down menu.
The services list will automatically show which services, grouped by carrier, you can apply to your shipment based on the delivery address. If a carrier or service is not selectable, that means it cannot be used for your shipment.
8. (For international shipments) Click Customs Form next to Contents in the International Shipments section.
The Customs Information window will open. Set your international options:
Non-Delivery Options: Set what will happen if the package cannot be delivered (Return to Sender is the default).
Internal Transaction Number: optional
Package Contents: Choose the option that best describes the contents of your shipment.
Items: International shipments must declare all items included in the shipment. Add an item with description, quantity, and unit price for each item included in the shipment.
9. (Optional) Set any additional options you may need.
Insure For: This will add carrier insurance to your package. Set the value you wish to insure the package for.
Tracking: This will set the confirmation type you want for the package (basic tracking is included at no cost for all carriers and is the default option). Keep in mind that options like Adult Signature Requiredmay increase your postage rate.
Extra Services: Extra services include return receipts, restricted delivery, COD, and special handling options. Available options will vary depending on which carrier and service you have selected.
Mail Date: The mail date will always default to the date you are creating your postage. If you’re planning on mailing another day, be sure to change the mail date.
Hide Postage: Enabled by default, this option will hide the postage amount on your shipping label (certain services may not allow you to deselect this option).
Print Receipt: Enable this option to print a receipt and/or instructions with your shipping label.
Print Reference #: Enable this option so you can enter a reference number or short message on your shipping label. If enabled, type your message into the Reference # field.
Cost Code: Select a cost code to apply to this shipment.
The total cost of your label will update as you configure your label.
10. When you are ready, click Print Postage.
Then, follow the onscreen prompts to select your printer and complete the printing process (your final printing steps will differ slightly depending on if you print through your browser or print using Stamps.com Connect).
If your shipping label failed to print properly, you can reprint without an extra charge by clicking the Reprint button and following the onscreen prompts.
How do I Mail USPS Large Envelope/Flat?
When sending items that cannot be folded, like manuscripts, reports, contracts, and legal documents, a good option is the USPS Large Envelope/Flat. This mailpiece type requires either NetStamps or a shipping label. If you want to include the delivery and return address on your shipment, create a shipping label. The process for creating a label for a Large Envelope/Flat is the same as for any other shipping label.
The USPS defines Large Envelopes and Flats as rectangular, flexible envelopes with the following dimensions:
Category
Minimum
Maximum
Height
6-1/8″
12″
Length
11-1/2″
15″
Thickness
1/4″
3/4″
Domestic First-Class Large Envelope/Flat is a non-tracked service and cannot weigh more than 13 ounces. International First-Class Large Envelope/Flat includes tracking and can weigh up to 4 pounds.
Tip: It is often more cost-effective to use USPS Flat Rate Envelopes for heavier items. USPS Flat Rate Envelopes come in a variety of sizes, both plain and padded, including legal size.
How do I Create Labels in Bulk?
To create multiple labels at once, you’ll add multiple recipients to your Ship To field. You can add them manually or add them from your Contacts list. You’ll then prepare the shipment as you normally would.
When creating labels in bulk, all shipping labels must be for domestic addresses (international and military addresses not supported at this time), use the same carrier and service class, and have the same weight and dimensions (unless shipping Flat Rate envelopes or packages).
To add recipients from your Contacts list, click the Contacts button and then select the recipients from the Contacts pop-up.
The selected contacts will appear along with the number of shipping labels required.To add a new contact manually in Stamps.com Online, click the + and enter the recipient details. For Stamps.com PC software, you must select recipients from your Contacts list. You can add a new contact if needed in the Contacts pop-up screen.
Notes on Shipping Labels
If the Dimensions fields are present when configuring your shipment, be sure to enter the size of your package to ensure an accurate rate and avoid post-shipping adjustments.
USPS shipping labels must be mailed on the date specified on the label. You can postdate a shipping label by changing the Mail Date. Shipping labels can be postdated 7 days, except for Priority Mail Express and shipping labels for international destinations, which can only be postdated 3 days. If you have already printed the shipping label but cannot mail it on the mailing date, request a refund for that label and print a new one with the appropriate date.
When printing a sample label, you must select USPS as the carrier. The sample label option is not available if UPS or DHL Express are selected as the carrier.
Hidden Postage: When hidden postage is enabled, your labels print without displaying the postage amount you paid. This is useful if you’d like to add shipping and handling fees to the postage amount paid by your recipient so they better reflect your true shipping costs. With hidden postage enabled, you cannot add any USPS special services. However, you can still insure your package using Stamps.com Insurance and add Electronic Delivery or Signature Confirmation.
Hidden Postage Exceptions:
As a security measure, hidden postage has been authorized by the USPS only for mail classes that include automatic electronic Delivery Confirmation or electronic Signature Confirmation. USPS First-Class Mail letters or large envelopes/flats are untracked, and therefore not eligible for hidden postage.
Postage value will only be hidden when printing postage on shipping labels. The postage value cannot be hidden when printing on envelopes, NetStamps, or other label types.
Packages shipped to Brazil will not have the postage value hidden, as the Brazilian customs officials require the postage amount paid to be clearly-marked on the shipping label.
Most DHL Express labels will display C-PTL. If this is present in your preview, your label is ready to print. If C-PTL is not present, your shipment requires a Commercial Invoice. A pop-up window will appear with a Commercial Invoice form that is already filled out. Print 2 copies of this form, attach one to your package along with the shipping label, and hand the other one to your DHL representative.
Try Stamps.com today
Hundreds of thousands of small businesses have already discovered the benefits of using Stamps.com to simplify their mailing and shipping needs.
Whether you’re sending a package or waiting for one to arrive, you want to know where it’s at. For business owners, it’s important that you’re able to confirm a shipment’s location if a customer asks. As for the customers, it’s even better for them if they can click on their tracking number and find their package without having to reach out.
So how do you track a UPS package? Easy, use Stamps.com’s or UPS’ tracking pages to instantly get a package update.
Tracking with confirmation numbers
One of the easiest ways to track a package is with its confirmation number. Stamps.com and UPS can both find your package for you with a simple copy and paste of your order’s confirmation or tracking number, which are the same thing. Stamps.com’s tracking page can find tracking information for a package not sent with UPS as well, but UPS’ page will only find packages sent with a UPS service.
Stamps.com can also automatically send your customers their tracking info. It will update tracking info in your store or marketplace, and then an optional email can be sent to the customer letting them know their order has shipped and how they can track it. This is a great way to improve seller ratings because you’re giving your customers the tools they need to check on their package with a click of a button.
Tracking statuses
When you enter the confirmation number into either the Stamps.com or UPS tracking pages, you’ll get a tracking status. This is updated each time your package is scanned as it moves along the delivery path. The common UPS statuses are:
Label Created: Your order’s label has been printed, but it hasn’t been shipped yet.
Shipped/On the Way: UPS has your order and it is en route to its destination.
Out for Delivery: The order is on the truck making its final journey to the delivery point.
Delivered: Your order has been delivered!
Delivered to a UPS Access Point: The package is ready to pick up from your local UPS Access Point. You can track the package with its tracking number to find the exact location if you’re unsure.
Exception: There was an error with your package that may affect the expected delivery date.
Regardless of where your package is, Stamps.com is with you every step of the way. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our support team.
What is a delivery notice?
Some packages may require a signature or a Collect on Delivery (C.O.D.) payment when they’re delivered. If you aren’t there to fulfill those requirements, you’ll receive a UPS Delivery Notice. The UPS Delivery Notice will tell you whether the driver will try to deliver again the next day or if they’re taking it to a UPS Pickup Location.
If the driver plans to attempt delivery again, they may make up to three more attempts before returning the order to the sender.
If the order is taken to a UPS Pickup Location, you’ll have seven calendar days to pick it up, and you’ll need to provide a government-issued photo ID to confirm your pickup. Be sure to check the tracking page for your order so that you know which location it’s at.
Some orders require C.O.D. Payment on arrival. It’s important to know that the only payment accepted is checks unless the sender has told UPS that cashier’s checks and money orders are allowed, which will be noted on the delivery notice.
Some businesses are sending out hundreds or even thousands of shipments a day. For even those sending out tens of orders though, tracking is just as important. Keeping your customers informed on their order status is key to their satisfaction. Try Stamps.com free for 30 days and set up email notifications so that your customers can track their package whenever they need to.
Have you noticed that your mailing and shipping costs change even when you’re sending the same package to the same place? One key reason for these fluctuations is something called demand surcharges.
What are demand surcharges?
Demand surcharges are extra fees that shipping carriers add during busy times when demand for shipping is high. These surcharges help carriers manage increased volume, labor shortages, and other challenges that come with handling more packages than usual. This is a standard practice that helps carriers deliver your packages on time, even during the busiest seasons.
Why do carriers implement demand surcharges?
Carriers impose demand surcharges for several reasons. During peak seasons like Christmas or Black Friday, the volume of packages increases significantly. To manage this volume, carriers often add surcharges to help cover the extra costs associated with handling more shipments.
Another factor is fuel prices. When fuel costs rise, carriers face higher operating costs, which typically results in fuel surcharges on rates.
Packages that require extra resources for delivery due to their weight, unusual shape, or special packaging will receive an Additional Handling surcharge. Specifically, packages with oversized dimensions will incur a Large Package Surcharge to offset the additional resources needed for their delivery. You also have to be careful that your packages do not exceed a carrier’s maximum weight or size limits or they will receive an Over Maximum Limit surcharge to cover the extra costs and resources required for delivery.
Additionally, busy shipping areas can lead to delays, prompting carriers to apply congestion surcharges. Finally, deliveries to remote locations can incur additional costs, leading to remote area surcharges.
By staying informed about these factors, you can better anticipate mailing and shipping costs during busy periods.
Holiday 2024 demand surcharges
Demand surcharges are temporary fees that arise during peak demand periods, such as the holidays, and usually last only until the demand decreases. As we enter the holiday season, it’s essential to monitor postage costs and any potential surcharges from carriers during these busy times. Staying informed about how these temporary surcharges can impact your postage rates is important, and that’s where we can help you.
Additionally, carriers often impose shipping deadlines to ensure timely delivery by the holidays. To ensure your shipments arrive on time and at the best possible price, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest pricing trends and shipping deadlines.
We’re committed to keeping you updated on the constantly evolving carrier landscape, including demand surcharges, dynamic pricing, and shipping deadlines. We recognize that navigating this complex industry can be difficult, which is why we focus on providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed.
Here’s how we help:
Access Real-Time Postage Rates: Our software is always up-to-date and reflects the latest postage rates from all carriers.
Utilize Cost-Saving Features:
Rate Advisor: Automatically calculates the exact postage for each package or envelope.
Switch and Save: Identifies opportunities to save money by suggesting more affordable options.
Choose from Multiple Carriers: Compare rates and services from various carriers to select the best option for your needs.
Leverage Expert Support: Our dedicated help center and support team are always available to assist you with any questions or concerns, including shipping deadlines and carrier-specific information.
By using our tools and resources, you can optimize your mailing and shipping costs and ensure that your packages arrive on time, every time.
We’re here to support you in navigating these changes, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business.
Start shipping from home with a free 30-day trial to Stamps.com.
At Stamps.com, it’s an honor to serve more than 400,000 customers who rely on our platform daily for all their mailing and shipping needs. From small businesses and complex multi-location operations to accounting and legal firms, we’re proud of how our platform adapts to the diverse needs of our customers.
Whether you’re a solopreneur or large-scale business, we offer a flexible, efficient, and simple plan to meet your needs.
Regardless of which you chose, every Stamps.com plan includes:
Discounted postage rates: We can’t control the cost of postage, but we do partner with USPS®, UPS®, FedEx® and more carriers to deliver rates that are lower than retail pricing.
Print stamps, labels, and forms: Other solutions don’t offer mailing services. Stamps.com allows you to print stamps, shipping labels, directly onto envelopes, and on Certified Mail® and international customers forms.
Rate advice and comparisons: You’ll never have to wonder if you’re applying the right amount of postage again. We make it easy to compare rates across carriers so you can choose the cheapest, fastest, or best way to send based on your needs.
Free scheduled pickups: We offer free USPS and UPS pickups to make it easy to ship without ever standing in line or leaving the office. You’ll be able to focus more of your time running your business and less time running postage errands.
Centralized mailing and shipping: Manage everything with one account, including users, reports, mailing and shipping expenses, refunds on postage, tracking, and other activity.
Wondering which plan is best for your business? Let’s break it down!
Core Plan ($20.99/month)
Best for: solo entrepreneurs or small offices looking for a simple, on-demand mailing solution.
The Core Plan offers an easy way to print postage, save time, and cut back on disruptions to your work day. Whether you’re sending letters or shipping packages, this plan provides access to discounted rates from USPS, UPS, and more—making it a flexible and cost-effective solution for your everyday mailing needs.
Key features:
Unlimited prints on NetStamps®, labels, and forms – in seconds, 24/7.
Make life easier with free pickups from USPS and UPS.
Save with discounted rates across multiple carriers and 10% off shipping insurance.
Use up to 10 cost codes to assign expenses to the business, clients, etc.
Access mailing and shipping activity and expense reports.
Conclusion: When in doubt, start here. You can always graduate to more robust plans as you better understand your sending needs.
Office Plan ($29.99/month)
Best for: teams at small businesses with growing sending volume that require support for multiple senders.
Onboard multiple users and leverage features designed to streamline higher volume sending with the right balance of features for your business’s stage of growth.
Key features include everything in our Core plan plus:
Print up to 200 NetStamps at a time to save precious time when mailing invoices, checks, statements, and important documents.
Up to three users to help you delegate mailing and shipping tasks.
Multi-address printing for bulk mailing without the hassle.
Create return labels from print history.
Customize labels and envelopes to establish your business brand.
Use up to 50 cost codes to assign expenses to your growing customer base.
Up to 20% off insurance.
Conclusion: If you’re ready to step up your mailing and shipping game without distracting from your business operations, then the Office Plan is for you and your team.
Ecommerce Plan ($39.99/month)
Best for: businesses that sell online goods and need help managing the sending complexity of their operations.
The Ecommerce Plan provides the firepower that online sellers need to seamlessly manage the growing sales of their goods. Connect your e-commerce store(s), automate tasks, manage your products and items sent, streamline returns, and unlock deeper discounts for your business.
Key features include everything in our Office plan plus:
Add up to five users to your account and use up to 1,000 cost codes to manage your growing sending operations.
Automatically import orders from multiple ecommerce platforms.
Custom packing slips.
Custom automations for order processing and printing.
Up to 40% off insurance to ensure safe delivery of all your packages.
Conclusion: If you are growing your ecommerce operation, as a side hustle or full-time job, the Ecommerce plan is exactly what you need to send reliably and deliver a great customer experience.
Multi-Location Plan (Custom Pricing)
Best for: large businesses with multiple locations requiring centralized management of mailing and shipping.
The Multi-Location Plan offers the perfect solution for businesses with several locations, allowing you to manage postage and shipping from one centralized account. With advanced reporting features, you can track activity across all locations, ensuring cost control and unified visibility. This plan eliminates the need for costly and outdated postage meters, streamlining your processes while offering discounted shipping rates.
Key features include everything in our Office plan plus:
Add up to 10 users to your account and use up to 50,000 cost codes to scale mailing and shipping from multiple office locations.
Assign custom user permissions to ensure postage expenses are logged and don’t go over budget.
Access to advanced reporting for complete visibility and control across mailing and shipping activity and postage spend across locations.
Up to 40% off insurance.
Get back up to 50% of what you’d spend leasing and maintaining a postage meter.
Historically, postage rates have been fixed. However, a significant shift is underway this year, as more carriers are adopting dynamic pricing models. This means that rates are no longer fixed but are adjusted in real-time based on various factors.
These changes can make mailing and shipping difficult for businesses to keep up with and navigate. As sending becomes more intricate, knowing when to send, how pricing works, and what tools will help can significantly impact the mailing and shipping strategy you put in place to run your business. Let’s explore what dynamic pricing means and how it’s changing mailing and shipping today and into the future.
What is dynamic pricing?
Dynamic pricing may sound new, but you’ve likely encountered it before. Consider how airline ticket prices vary as the departure date nears. If you check ticket prices one day, you might see they’ve changed when you look again a few days later.
In mailing and shipping, rates can fluctuate based on real-time factors such as demand, shipping capacity, and even seasonal trends. Understanding these shifts helps businesses plan ahead, securing better rates and avoiding unexpected expenses.
Dynamic pricing allows postage rates to be flexible, adjusting based on various factors like demand, volume, distance, fuel costs, and delivery speed. Unlike traditional fixed rates, which can lead to inefficiencies in the carrier network, dynamic pricing reflects actual operational costs and market conditions.
How dynamic shipping rates work for carriers
Carriers employ automated tools to adjust rates in real-time. Here’s how this process works:
Real-Time Adjustments: Carriers monitor factors influencing mailing and shipping costs. For example, during peak seasons like holidays, an increase in demand can lead to temporary rate hikes.
Distance and Package Size: The cost generally increases with longer distances and larger package sizes.
Shipping Speed: Customers often pay a premium for expedited delivery, and dynamic pricing allows carriers to adjust these rates based on capacity and demand.
Dynamic pricing vs. traditional fixed rates
While traditional fixed rates offer predictability, they can result in higher costs for certain shipments. In contrast, dynamic pricing:
Provides Flexibility: Prices change based on real-time data, allowing customers to benefit from lower rates during off-peak times.
Reflects Current Market Conditions: Customers receive accurate prices that reflect the mailing and shipping landscape at any given moment.
The main driver behind carriers adopting dynamic pricing is competition. With numerous shipping options available, carriers must be agile to attract customers. This flexibility enables them to offer competitive rates that mirror the current market, ensuring they stay relevant.
Dynamic pricing benefits customers by providing potential savings during low-demand periods or when operational efficiencies arise. This competitive environment ultimately enhances value for consumers.
The future of dynamic pricing for carriers
As the mailing and shipping industry continues to progress, dynamic pricing is poised to become standard practice among carriers. Future expectations include:
Increased Automation: Advanced algorithms will enable carriers to refine their pricing strategies more effectively.
Enhanced Customer Tools: Customers will gain access to improved tools to navigate pricing changes and choose the best shipping options.
Greater Market Responsiveness: Carriers will adapt pricing in real-time to fluctuations in demand, maintaining competitiveness and cost-effectiveness.
How we can help
We recognize the challenges that come with dynamic postage rates. We make it easier to navigate these changes, empowering you to make informed decisions for your business and for yourself.
Here’s how we support our customers:
Real-Time Postage Rates: Our software is always up-to-date and reflects the latest postage rates from all carriers to ensure you always get access to the best deals.
Cost-Saving Functionality: Our Rate Advisor and “Switch and Save” features calculate exact postage so you don’t have to. We also let you know when there is a more affordable way to send.
Multiple Carrier Options: We offer access to multiple carriers, allowing you to choose the best rates and services for your mailing and shipping needs.
Resources and Support: Our help center and support team are always available to help you understand changes in the landscape.
At Stamps.com, we’re dedicated to supporting you through these changes, ensuring you stay informed and equipped with the tools you need to mail and ship successfully.
Start shipping from home with a free 30-day trial to Stamps.com.
Business owners spend their days juggling multiple roles. From managing customers to tending to administrative functions, there’s no such thing as a small task. Every minute counts–especially for those who work around the clock–which makes finding efficient, simple solutions key to staying ahead.
Stamps.com is the simple way to send, providing businesses with new time and savings so you can focus on what matters: running and growing your business.
Keep it flexible
Flexibility is essential for business owners who need to work on their own schedules. Whether sending invoices, shipping packages, or handling legal documents, business owners need a solution that adapts to their needs—not the other way around. Stamps.com provides that flexibility by allowing businesses to manage their sending needs from anywhere, at any time, without ever having to stand in line or jump in the car to send mail or ship packages.
You won’t find a more flexible way to send:
Print anything on demand: Print stamps, shipping labels, directly onto envelopes, Certified Mail® forms, and international forms–whenever you need it.
Send from anywhere: Log into Stamps.com to access all the great services from USPS®, UPS®, and more carriers from your laptop, tablet, or phone–whether at home, the office, or on the go.
Never worry about supplies: Easy access to everything you need to mail or ship, directly through the Stamps.com store.
Keep it efficient
Small businesses know the importance of efficiency—every saved minute and dollar means more time and resources to invest in your business. Stamps.com is as smart as it is efficient, automatically finding our customers the best rates and access to pre-negotiated discounts that save you up to 87% on postage. Whether you’re sending a letter across town or shipping packages across the country, Stamps.com ensures you get the best deal—every time.
You won’t find a more efficient way to send:
Postage in seconds: Skip manual processes, handwriting on envelopes or packages, or ever having to do postage math again.
Discounted carrier rates: Never pay retail price for postage again. Access deeply discounted rates for USPS, UPS, and other major carriers, saving up to 87% on postage.
Rate Advisor: Eliminate guesswork: Send confidently knowing that Stamps.com automatically calculates the most cost-effective or fastest option to mail or ship every time.
Keep it simple
For more than 25 years, small businesses have relied on Stamps.com: The Simple Way to Send™. Stamps.com streamlines the entire mailing and shipping process into one simple, easy-to-use platform that puts every sending method right at their fingertips.
You won’t find a simpler way to send:
All-in-one platform: Manage every aspect of sending from one place—whether it’s printing postage, managing send and spend activity, scheduling package pickups, and tracking everything you send.
No learning curve: An intuitive interface means small businesses can start using Stamps.com right away. All you need is your laptop and any printer.
Comprehensive support: Whether through phone, email, or chat, our support team is here to answer any questions you may have, 24/7.
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Hundreds of thousands of small businesses have already discovered the benefits of using Stamps.com to simplify their mailing and shipping needs.
In order to keep your customer satisfaction high during the busiest time of the year, it’s crucial to communicate holiday shipping deadlines—the final dates to send a package for it to reach its destination by the holidays—to your customers.
Holiday shipping deadlines allow carriers to account for the higher shipping volume, ensuring orders are under the tree and into stockings on time. And with Thanksgiving falling on a later day this year, the holiday shopping window is shorter, so make sure you’re aware of these important dates before the busy season begins.
When do packages need to be mailed for Christmas delivery 2024?
Shipping deadlines will vary by the carrier and service, but most carrier deadlines range from six to 12 days before December 25th. It’s also important to note that domestic and international services each have their own set of shipping deadlines, so keep this in mind when preparing your holiday shipments. The domestic shipping deadlines for USPS, UPS, and FedEx can all be found below.
UPS® holiday shipping deadlines
UPS 3 Day Select®: December 19, 2024
UPS 2nd Day Air® services: December 20, 2024
UPS® Ground: Check ups.com/ctc for details
UPS® Ground Saver: Check ups.com/ctc for details
UPS Next Day Air® services: December 23, 2024
USPS® holiday shipping deadlines
This year, USPS is implementing a temporary surcharge that started on October 6, 2024, but if you use our shipping rates, you can potentially avoid the surcharge.
USPS Ground Advantage™: December 16, 2024
First-Class® Mail: December 16, 2024
Priority MailⓇ: December 18, 2024
Priority Mail ExpressⓇ*: December 20, 2024
USPS® holiday shipping deadlines for Alaska and Hawaii
USPS Ground Advantage™: December 16, 2024
First-Class® Mail: December 16, 2024
Priority MailⓇ: December 18, 2024 (Alaska), December 16, 2024 (Hawaii)
Fedex 2DayⓇ& FedEx 2DayⓇ AM: December 20, 2024 (with an optional Saturday pickup {a $16 per-package surcharge}, the last day to ship for FedEx 2Day and FedEx 2Day AM can be extended to Saturday, December 21, 2024)
FedEx SameDayⓇ: December 24, 2024
Need a quick reference for upcoming shipping deadlines? Print out our handy calendar and share it with your team and customers.
USPS, UPS, and FedEx shipping holidays
Shipping holidays are designated days where postal workers, delivery drivers, and other people within this field are given time off and most or all services are suspended for the day. The shipping holidays for USPS, UPS, and FedEx are all outlined in the lists below.
✝Some of The UPS Store® locations may have modified business hours. Check with your local store for specific hours of operation.
FedEx shipping holiday schedule 2024*
FedEx shipping holidays vary by service and by date throughout the holiday season. Visit FedEx’s website for a complete list of FedEx shipping holidays.
Branded ship notifications allow your business to customize emails with your logo, preferred color scheme, and more. Additionally, your business can add social media links and promo messages to give customers access to special deals.
Our branded options can be enabled and customized throughout the year, so you aren’t limited to one specific message. Create shipping notifications in advance and cross another item off your to-do list, all while keeping the holiday season merry and bright for your customers.
Make the holiday season simpler with a 30-day trial to Stamps.com.
Jourden Sander
Jourden is a writer, editor, dancer, and artist who is passionate about bringing storytelling and editorial excellence to everything she writes and creates. In her spare time, she plays tennis and video games, and she loves cozying up with her cats and corgi while watching a Studio Ghibli movie.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is temporarily raising rates for select package services from October 6th to January 19th. This is a common practice among major carriers like FedEx and UPS during the holiday season to accommodate the surge in shipping volume and maintain service quality.
Commercial Pricing vs. Stamps.com Discounts
As a reminder Commercial Pricing is a discounted rate offered to businesses who print USPS shipping labels and meet certain volume requirements. Commercial Pricing is always cheaper than the Retail Pricing given at the Post Office.
Stamps.com, provides even lower USPS shipping rates for shipments within the continental U.S. When you print labels through Stamps.com, you can access these discounted rates, often saving money compared to Commercial Pricing.
Here’s what you need to know:
Affected Services: Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail®, and USPS Ground Advantage™ both Commercial and Retail rates.
Commercial pricing adjustments
Priority Mail® and USPS Ground Advantage™ (Zones 1-4):
$0.30 increase for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$0.45 increase for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$0.75 increase for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$3.00 increase for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
Priority Mail® and USPS Ground Advantage™ (Zones 5-9):
$0.70 increase for Priority Mail® and $0.35 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$1.25 increase for Priority Mail® and $0.75 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$2.75 increase for Priority Mail® and $1.25 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$7.00 increase for Priority Mail™ and $5.50 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
Priority Mail Express (Zones 1-4):
$1.00 increase for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$1.50 increase for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$3.50 increase for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$8.95 increase for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
Priority Mail Express (Zones 5-9):
$1.75 increase for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$3.95 increase for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$7.50 increase for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$13.00 increase for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
Retail pricing adjustments
Priority Mail® and USPS Ground Advantage™ (Zones 1-4):
$0.40 increase for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$0.55 increase for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$0.95 increase for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$4.00 increase for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
Priority Mail® and USPS Ground Advantage™ (Zones 5-9):
$0.90 increase for Priority Mail® and $0.50 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 0-3 lbs.
$1.45 increase for Priority Mail® and $1.00 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 4-10 lbs.
$3.25 increase for Priority Mail® and $2.00 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 11-25 lbs.
$8.50 increase for Priority Mail® and $5.85 increase for USPS Ground Advantage™ for packages weighing 26-70 lbs.
How to save on mailing and shipping costs during the holidays
To offset the temporary USPS rate increases during the holiday season, consider using a shipping platform like Stamps.com. These platforms often offer discounted shipping rates for major carriers, including USPS. By using Stamps.com, you can potentially access rates lower than those available to the general public, helping you save money on your holiday shipments.
