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What's a Certificate of Mailing?
What's a USPS certificate of mailing? Read this blog to find out!
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As an eCommerce merchant, if you send out a package, but the receiver is yet to get it, or there is an issue with the shipping, a certificate of mailing is a document that can prove that you sent the item on a specific date.
This article will discuss a certificate of mailing and why they are essential for business owners.
What is a USPS Certificate of Mailing?
The USPS Certificate of Mailing is a document that proves that an item was mailed on a specific date. It does not confirm the delivery date, gives proof of shipping, or provide insurance against loss. Only the date the package was mailed is listed on this certificate.
You’ll need the mailing certificate if you ever need an official document to back yourself up or proof that you sent mail to someone if the package gets lost or stolen.
You can only purchase a certificate of mailing when you go to the post office to send out a mailer. However, not all USPS services provide you with a certificate. The following USPS services offer USPS Certificate of Mailing:
- First-Class or Priority Mail
- First-Class Package Service-Commercial (except for parcels mailed at commercial plus prices)
- Priority Mail
- USPS Retail Ground
- Bound Printed Matter
- Library Mail
- Media Mail
USPS provides different certificates of mailing depending on your requirements. And each certificate has its form. The available forms include PS Form 3817, PS Form 3665, PS Form 3877, PS Form 3606, and PS Form 3606-D.
Related post: What is Certified Mail? Everything You Need to Know
When Should You Use a USPS Certificate of Mailing?
While most postal service providers such as the USPS guarantee accurate delivery of mails, there is always the possibility of an error.
Your mailer could be misplaced, damaged, or accidentally delivered to the wrong address. In such a situation, a certificate of mailing can be a lifesaver from unnecessary issues, especially if the mail is urgent or timely. For example, a certificate of mailing may be required in the following circumstances:
Mailing checks
Security is a significant issue with sending checks via postal mail, so you shouldn't take any risks. Instead, obtain a certificate of mailing when you ship it if the package was never received.
Mailing tax forms
Tax forms are timely documents. If you fail to send them within the stipulated time, you could get penalized. Thus, you need to obtain proof of mailing should the tax forms get lost in the mail.
Mailing government forms or legal documents
If you send out a government form or legal document and it doesn't get delivered, proof of mailing can be helpful.
Mailing time-sensitive documents
It can be frustrating to worry about missing a deadline when sending a timely document. The mail can be delayed at times, but you can establish that you shipped it in time with proof of mailing.
How Much Does a USPS Certificate of Mailing Cost?
Every year, the cost of getting a certificate of mail varies. However, it is very affordable to use the USPS Certificate of Mailing. As of 2021, the price was $1.55 to use this service. But, the price varies depending on whether you buy the certificate with or without an individual article.
If you use an individual article with a Firm Mailing Book, you will get it at a more affordable price.
Using USPS Certificate of Mailing with Easyship
The USPS Certificate of Mailing can be a lifesaver in many situations. It is also helpful for eCommerce businesses. You’ll need the mailing certificate if you ever need an official document to back yourself up or proof that you sent mail to someone if the package gets lost or stolen.
With Easyship, you can calculate your shipping prices and compare them with available options. Easyship also offers other premium features for the USPS Certificate of Mailing that allow you to optimize your delivery process and satisfy your customers better. Get access to the features by clicking on them below:
- Free USPS Shipping Rates Calculator: Access high-volume discounts from major couriers. Plus, get instant access to delivery lead times from premium shipping couriers.
- High-Value Shipping Insurance: Easyship offers up to $10,000 shipping insurance for all shipments. This way, customers can have peace of mind regarding high-value items.
- Shipping Policy Generator: Our shipping policy generator helps merchants and crowdfunding campaigns generate their shipping policy by providing tracking and insurance options, plus other vital information for your shipping process
Ready to ship with USPS? Sign up for a FREE Easyship account and get instant access to high-volume discounts for your business
USPS Certificate of Mailing FAQ
Is certified mail safe?
Yes, certified mail is safe because it has a record of everyone who handles the package and also because a signature is required on delivery, so the letter or package isn't left in a vulnerable mailbox.
Is certified mail proof of mailing?
Yes, the USPS Certificate of Mailing provides the sender with proof of mailing and delivery. It requires a copy of the recipient's signature, delivery date, and time to be sent to the sender via a return receipt.
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