Mailing books? Ask about media mail rates.
School is starting again, and it’s a great time to think about the value of an education.
Did you know you can pay less for shipping via USPS if you are mailing books — and have you ever wondered why?
In 1938, the USPS introduced special rates for shipping books, with the intention of encouraging education in the United States. Since then, “book rate” has been expanded to “media mail” and includes not just books but also printed music, DVDs, scripts and maps. Rates are often 50% of standard shipping rates.
The origins of this discount account for some of its quirks. Not eligible? Comic books (no education value!), newspapers or magazines that include advertising, blank journals or blank CDs. You also cannot include any cards or personal letters in the same box, and since USPS Media Mail is subject to inspection, any exceptions may be discovered.
Of course, we all pay for this program in that its inefficient administration and lower revenue is one of many, many reasons the USPS struggles with margins relative to peers, and a new $40B overhaul isn’t going well.
Insight into Client Service:
Monthly Planning
Each month, we send our clients information on a topic to help keep their financial lives improving between meetings. Sometimes the topics are more tactical (updating account beneficiaries); other topics are more strategic (talking with aging parents about their finances). Speak to one of our financial advisors to learn more about them.