The US Postal Service (USPS) offers the following mail type/postage options:

  • First Class

  • Presorted First Class

  • Marketing Mail (sometimes called Standard Mail)

  • Nonprofit Mail

  • Presorted Marketing Mail and Nonprofit Mail


The main differences between these options are: 

  • Pricing

  • Speed of Delivery*

  • Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) Tracking 

  • Return to Sender and Mail Forwarding 

*Delivery times are not guaranteed


In this article, we’ll cover the highlights of each of the mailing types so that you can be sure you’re making the best postage choice for your direct mail campaigns. 

For a more in-depth comparison, check out our blog post First Class vs Standard Class Direct Mail

First Class Mail

USPS First Class Mail has the highest level of service. Paying first class postage rates ensures you’ll receive the fastest delivery of your postcards and letters, up to 3.5 ounces. Typical delivery times are within 1 to 5 business days. Returns and mail forwarding are also included. Combined with an Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB), these mailpieces are tracked, via scan, by the USPS as they move through the mail stream and reported back to your Campaign Dashboard.

Presorted First Class Mail

Presorted first class offers the same service as first class, but with discounted rates up 20%. This is due to sorting the mail by type, size and Zip Code before delivery to the Post Office. This pre-work saves the USPS time and resources, which is passed down to the customer in the form of lower postage rates. There is a minimum quantity requirement of 500 pieces to qualify for presorted first class rates.

Marketing Mail

USPS Marketing Mail, sometimes called “Standard Postage”, is designed for larger mailings, 200 piece minimum, and greatly reduces postage costs. With that said, this class of mail does not receive the same priority or services that first class mail does. Typical delivery times are between 5 to 21 business days. Marketing mail does not include forwarding or return services, unless a special endorsement is added for an additional fee. Tracking through the mail stream, with the use of IMBs, generally takes place, however, it is not guaranteed.

Nonprofit Mail

Nonprofit Mail is a form of marketing mail and provides even lower rates for those that qualify. The rules for nonprofit mail are strict and you must apply for nonprofit authorization through the USPS. Once approved, you’ll receive a Nonprofit Authorization Number. Estimated delivery times follow the same guidelines as marketing mail with typical delivery between 5 to 21 business days. Nonprofit mail does not include forwarding or return services, unless a special endorsement is added, for an additional fee. Tracking through the mail stream with the use of IMBs generally takes place, however, it is not guaranteed with nonprofit mail.

To learn more about nonprofit mail and how to apply, see our help document Postage Permit for U.S. Nonprofits or visit the USPS FAQ Page for Nonprofit Mail.

Presorted Marketing Mail and Nonprofit Mail

Just like with first class, presorted marketing mail and nonprofit mail is available at discounted rates when sorted by type, size, and ZIP Code before delivery to USPS. The delivery times remain as indicated in each mail type, along with tracking, return and forwarding services. The minimum requirement is 500 mailpieces.


Please reach out to us with any questions you may have.