34 LEGAL METHODS TO CUT HIGH POSTAGE COSTS

1.   For local messages, telephone instead of sending a 
     letter.
2.   Use postcards as often as possible.  Sane on stamps 
     AND envelopes.
3.   Don't buy stamps from vending machines where a 
     service charge is added.
4.   If you operate your own business, remember that 
     postage is tax deductible.
5.   Pay local bills in person instead of mailing them.
6.   Save postage stamps off your incoming mail.  Then 
     sell them at flea markets, garage sales, neighborhood yard 
     and tag sales, etc.
7.   Use 3rd class mail when speed isn't important and 
     pocket big savings.
8.   Don't "overstamp" your mail.  Purchase an inexpensive 
     postal scale or have your local Post Office weigh your 
     mail for you.
9.   When sending 1st class mail, remember that while the 
     first ounce requires a 1st class stamp, additional ounces 
     cost less.  Pick up a postal rate guide from your local 
     Post Office.
10.  Post Office "stamped" envelopes are expensive.  Save 
     by buying packets of envelopes from variety and discount 
     stores.
11.  Don't pay extra for "airmail" between distant points 
     in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.  All such mail is 
     automatically sent via air at 1st class rates.
12.  Always use your zip code on your mail for faster 
     delivery.  If you don't know the zip code, your local Post 
     Office can look it up for you.
13.  If speed and timing is important, deposit your mail 
     early in the day.
14.  If you have special instructions such as "Special 
     Delivery", mark this plainly on all letters and packages, 
     in big letters for all to see.
15.  Pay bills by personal checks.  It is less expensive 
     then Postal money orders.
16.  Avoid ordering merchandise via "C.O.D.". The C.O.D. 
     charge is generally added to the cost of your order.
17.  When insuring a package or letter, insure it for its 
     value only - and no more.  If it is lost, you will be paid 
     for the actual value only.
18.  Use "Special Delivery" during nights and weekends 
     only.  During the week, Special Delivery is handled the 
     same as regular first class mail and given special 
     attention at the destination only.
19.  Never spend on "Special Delivery" mail sent to a Post 
     Office box.
20.  If your require proof of delivery, use "Certified" 
     mail instead of more expensive "Registered" mail.
21.  When mailing large quantities of identical "printed 
     matter" mail, investigate "bulk mail" rates.  Inquire at 
     your local Post Office.
22.  When shipping parcels, compare rates charged by other 
     carriers such as United Parcel Service, Greyhound, freight 
     companies, etc.
23.  When mailing books, use the lower 4th class "book 
     rate".
24.  Reweigh "Postage Due" mail in the event an error has 
     been made.
25.  Avoid using odd-shaped "non-standard" size envelopes.  
     The Post Office charges extra if envelopes do not conform 
     to certain size specifications.
26.  When mailing printed matter overseas, use the lower  
     "surface rate" and write "Printed Matter" on the envelope, 
     if airmail isn't necessary.
27.  Never mail cash.  If it gets lost, you have no proof 
     that it was sent.
28.  Be sure that your return address is on all outgoing 
     mail.  It will be returned to you it is undeliverable 
     and sent via first class.
29.  Save time!  (Time is money!) Buy larger quantities of 
     stamps at one time and avoid standing in long Post Office 
     lines often.
30.  Use large brown grocery bags for wrapping packages 
     instead of buying sheets of wrapping paper.  Use saved 
     string and twine for this same purpose.
31.  When shipping fragile items, decrease shipping weight 
     by using popped corn as the packing material, instead of 
     heavier crumpled newspapers.
32.  Let postal workers suggest other methods for saving 
     on postage costs.
33.  Check your Christmas card list carefully and 
     eliminate unnecessary names.
34.  When buying sheets of stamps, save the corner "plate 
     number blocks".  They could increase in value and make 
     excellent future "investments".