Before
you begin addressing envelopes, assemble one complete invitation (including
tissue paper, any maps or additional insertions, and the stamp on the return
response envelope) and take it to your local post office for weight and
measurement. When you order invitations, it is safe to assume that you will
have to pay extra postage. Don’t assume .44 cents will be enough with all the
insertions it could easily exceed one ounce. In addition, often it’s the size
and not the weight which may require more postage than one first class stamp,
so taking this extra step now can save a lot of aggravation later. Don’t forget
to buy stamps for the response card envelopes or postcards while you’re at the
post office!
First Class Letter postage prices are based on the shape, as well as the weight of the envelope. USPS follows the guidelines below:
Shape
Rectangular; length is the dimension parallel to the address
At least 5" long x 3 1/2" high by .007"thick
No more than 11 1/2" long x 6 1/8" high x 1/4" thick
Up to 3.5 ounces
Letters that meet one or more of the nonmachinable characteristics below are
subject to the $0.20 nonmachinable surcharge. Items over 3.5 ounces must be mailed as a
Large Envelope or Package.
It is a square letter (the minimum size for a square envelope is 5 x 5
inches.)
It is too rigid - does not bend easily
It has clasps, string, buttons, or similar closure devices
It has an address parallel to the shorter dimension of the letter
It contains items such as pens that cause the surface to be uneven
The length divided by height is less than 1.3 or more than 2.5
Weight
Less than 1 oz. = 44 cents
Less than 2 oz. = 61 cents
Less than 3 oz. = 78 cents
Less than 3 1/2 oz. = 95 cents
Postcard - 28 cents
Size limits:
Minimum: 3-1/2 inches high by 5 inches long by 0.007 inch thick
Maximum: 6 inches long by 4-1/4 inches high
Additional postage required for larger postcards
