What's the Difference Between First Class Mail and Priority Mail?

First class mail and priority mail are two of the most popular shipping options that USPS offers for businesses to ship their products. While both have benefits, they differ in cost, delivery time and size limits. For eCommerce merchants, it’s important to know the difference between first class mail vs priority mail so they can make the right choice for their business.

First class shipping is ideal for sending letters, thick envelopes and lightweight packages that weigh less than 13 ounces. It can be delivered in 1-3 days to most locations nationwide.

In comparison, priority mail is used for bulkier and heavier items. It can be sent within 1 to 3 business days across the country and internationally, but it’s limited to a maximum weight of 70 pounds. Priority shipping also includes an insurance policy that covers up to $200 worth of goods depending on where the package is shipped.

Both services have their own pricing structure that considers size, weight and distance. First class mail is often cheaper than priority mail, but the price gap can vary. If you presort your mail, it may save you up to 20% on postage rates which can be a huge benefit for small and medium sized online shops.

One of the biggest differences between first class and priority is their tracking capabilities. First class mail doesn’t include tracking information, while priority does. This can be a big problem if you’re selling expensive products, like watches, that have to be carefully packaged and tracked to avoid any damage or loss.