Rates going postal

Want to send a letter?

It had better not be too bulky, or else you could get charged more.

From CNN.com:

The postal rate increase that kicks in Monday is shaping up to be a big headache for many businesses.

Many companies say they are confused and frustrated as they try to adjust to the new rules, and some say mailings could be severely curtailed due to higher postage costs.

The new regulations mean larger envelopes and packages will automatically cost more than smaller mail. Currently, postage is determined by weight, unless it's an especially large or odd-shaped package that warrants special handling.

Will we see price hikes in the future?

Perhaps, but while I was discussing this with a friend, he offered a few possible alternatives to what he called 'terminal overpricing.'

--> A network of volunteer men and women who transport the letters, and/or packages via bicycles or other means. (Example: Pony Express)

--> Utilize FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc... for your needs.

--> Instead of writing letters, write emails.

Also, here is an interesting table showing US postal rates and increases.

This, along with gas prices going up just might make more than a few folks go postal.

Peace, ~Elindelwolf