USPS question

[towtruck]

I have a question about the USPS what is the difference between regular USPS mail & media mail ? why is "media mail " so slow ?.thanks in advance for any help on this.

Edited November 20, 2017 by towtruck

[vamach1]

It's cheaper.  For books and videos. Etc.

[peteski]

Here are the various shipping options explained (including Media Mail). https://www.usps.com/ship/mail-shipping-services.htm

There is a link for "show detail" about each. Click on "show detail" in the Media Mail section for . . . more details and restrictions.

[Tom Geiger]

Media Mail is a cost-effective way to send educational materials. This service has restrictions on the type of media that can be sent. From $2.63 at a Post Office.

Media mail was originally "Book Rate"  or "Library Rate", and was used for libraries to send books to patrons.  It got expanded to media as that market evolved. Sending software is okay, old lp records too.   Media should not contain advertising, so magazines are out, but you can send a shop manual.

People do try to abuse this and the USPS has the right to open any package sent by this rate. Back when I sold kits on eBay I'd have people wanting me to send them media rate to save them a few cents.  

 

[towtruck]

thanks for the replys the reason I asked is because I bought a paperback from California   & I live in central MO. it took 7 days to get here wasn't really in a hurry just thought 7 days was a bit long

[peteski]

Media Mail is the "slow boat" mail - the cheapest and slowest. Probably send via a yak!  You get what you paid for.  

[martinfan5]

 

Media Mail is a cost-effective way to send media materials through the U.S. Postal Service. You can send books, videotapes, DVDs, CDs, printed music and other sound recordings through Media Mail as long as they weigh less than 70 pounds.

Edited November 23, 2017 by martinfan5

[peteski]

I posted a link which goes to USPS where the restrictions are clearly stated. My statement about the slowness is also factual. If someone wants to use Media Mail for other items, it is their choice (not mine).

[Classicgas]

 

   Media should not contain advertising, so magazines are out, but you can send a shop manual.

 

 

I sent magazines via media mail.

[peteski]

On 11/23/2017 at 6:35 AM, Classicgas said:

I sent magazines via media mail.

You're not the first nor last to do that. Other restricted items also get sent via Media Mail.