A prepaid envelope is one of the best time saving, and oftentimes, money saving items available for those wishing to distribute letters, items, documents, or even small postcard mailers. The sender simply decides which envelope suits their needs, pays a set rate, and sends the filled envelope on its way. There are several different forms of prepaid envelopes. They differ in the speed of delivery, the size of the item that needs to be mailed, the company used to complete the delivery, and of course, the cost.
The United States Postal Service has several options for those wishing to deliver an item via prepaid envelope. For simple mailings, there are several envelopes that have the stamp already on them. Senders can choose what size envelope fits their needs. The sizes vary from #6 ¾, #9, #10, or even a postcard. They can be solid white or they can have a clear window so that a mailing address on a letter can be seen through it. They cost the same as a stamp, but save time because they can be purchased in bulk and they are already stamped, ready to be filled, addressed, and mailed with the regular mail service.
The United States Postal Service also gives senders the option of purchasing Priority Mail prepaid envelopes. With the Priority Mail envelopes, a flat rate is pre-applied. They, too, can be purchased in bulk. Priority Mail prepaid envelopes are great for important documents that must be received in a timely manner – two or three days. In addition, Priority Mail has several options available where the sender can receive delivery confirmation or signature confirmation of delivery – all included in a pre-paid flat rate.
As long as it is within the United States, the destination does not determine the cost of a prepaid envelope purchased through the United States Post Office. Other prepaid envelope choices available to senders include FedEx®; however, FedEx® prepaid envelopes are best used as a method to return a package or envelope to a set place due to fact that the cost varies from place to place. FedEx® is most often used by companies that ship items and attach a return envelope with their shipment. Then, that company can control how quickly and at what cost the item is returned to them.
The United States is not unique in its use of prepaid envelopes. Many other countries also give senders the time saving option of using a prepaid envelope. Simply contact the postal service for each country to determine the cost and timeliness of delivery.