Your go-to destination for all things postage!
Simplify your mailing operations, stay updated on USPS changes, and find expert tips to save time and money. Whether you're
managing domestic or international mail, our resources help you streamline every step of the process.
What is Intelligent Mail
Indicia (IMI) Compliance?
The USPS introduced Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) to replace the outdated Information Based Indicia Program (IBIP). IMI offers businesses a more secure, efficient way to manage postage with benefits like automated refunds, detailed reporting, and better regulatory compliance.
USPS Rate Changes
We’re sharing a courtesy update regarding upcoming USPS pricing changes that may affect your mailing and shipping costs.
Who this applies to: This notice applies to customers using USPS mailing and shipping services.
Key Details
- Effective Date: July 12, 2026
- Increase: Approximately 4.8% average increase across mailing services
Mailing Rate Changes
- Forever Stamp (1 oz): $0.78 → $0.82
- Metered Letter (1 oz): $0.74 → $0.78
- Domestic Postcard: $0.61 → $0.65
- International Letter (1 oz): $1.70 → $1.75
- International Postcard: $1.70 → $1.75
- Marketing Mail: ~5–6% increase on average
- Additional ounce (letters): remains $0.29
Shipping & Package Changes
- Dimensional weight (DIM) divisor decreases from 166 to 139
- Package dimensions are rounded up when calculating volume
- Larger, lightweight packages may see greater cost increases
This is a USPS-driven change, not a CBS price increase. Updated rates will automatically apply beginning July 12, 2026.
Do You Need to Take Action?
No action is required. This is a USPS-driven pricing change, and updated rates will automatically apply beginning April 26, 2026.
How to Mail Smarter and Save Money
Even with postage rate increases, you can optimize your mailing operations to cut costs and
increase efficiency. Explore these practical tips to stay ahead:
Compare Rates
Shop around! Don’t feel obligated to stick with one carrier for all your shipments. Compare rates from various carriers to find the most cost-effective option that still meets your service needs. Think of it like any other purchase—find the best value for your budget.
Embrace Digital Solutions
Streamline your mailing process by using cloud-based mailing software like Quadient Impress. As a trusted Quadient dealer, CBS offers tools that allow you to send one or thousands of letters in minutes—all from the comfort of your desk. Your data is securely hosted in state-of-the-art data centers with redundant infrastructure and SSL encryption, ensuring safe and seamless operations.
Leverage Shape-Based Pricing
Mail pieces that exceed specific dimensions are classified as a larger shape, resulting in higher postage costs. Avoid surprises by ensuring your mail fits within USPS-approved dimensions. Access our free Shape-Based Pricing template to ensure accurate pricing for your mail.
Optimize Dimensional Weight
USPS calculates postage based on size, thickness, and weight, particularly for parcels. Reduce costs by using flat-rate boxes whenever possible, selecting the smallest box that fits your item, and utilizing USPS-compliant shipping software for accurate pricing and discounts.
Take Advantage of Commercial-Base Pricing
Unlock commercial-based discounts by adhering to USPS guidelines for mailing shapes and sizes. Our Shape-Based Pricing template can help you identify cost-saving opportunities while ensuring your mail is within specifications.
