The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) implemented changes to mail delivery standards for first-class mail and periodicals that are expected to impact rural areas more heavily.
The changes took effect on Oct. 1.
The current three-day standard for first-class mail will change to five days for delivery anywhere within the U.S. The USPS explains the delivery standard change in terms of “local area” delivery and mail “traveling longer distances.” The two-day standard for delivery within a “local area” will remain unchanged. USPS has increased time-in-transit standards by one or two days for certain mail that are traveling longer distances.
It is anticipated that rural areas will feel the effects of the changes in mail delivery standards more heavily because of the greater distances for mail to travel in most cases.
With new service standards implemented, USPS offers several tips for consumers to prepare for the new delivery timeframes. For mail or correspondence that requires a deadline, the Postal Service encourages consumers to plan ahead and send their mail early. If it would take you more than a day to drive your mail to its destination, make sure to give your long-distance mail some extra time to travel with USPS.
Click here for more information from USPS.