US Postal Service Forward Mail Change Address: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to moving to a new home, there are several tasks that need to be completed before the big day arrives. One of the most important ones is setting up mail forwarding with the US Postal Service (USPS). This type of forward mail change address allows you to receive your mail at your old address for a specified period after you've moved.

Understanding Mail Forwarding Options

When you set up mail forwarding with USPS, there are four different types of mail forwarding options that you can choose from. The most common one is the temporary Change of Address order, which provides piece-by-piece forwarding for all First Class Mail and Periodicals (such as magazines and newspapers). However, this option does not forward USPS Marketing Mail or Package Services Mail.

Fees Associated with Mail Forwarding

If you need mail forwarding for a longer period than the standard 12 months, you'll be charged additional fees. The USPS charges $1.10 to file a Change of Address online, which comes with 12 months of standard mail forwarding.

How Mail Forwarding Works

Here's how it works: when you submit a Change of Address request with the post office, they will set up automatic mail forwarding to reroute your mail from your old address to your new address. The local mail carrier will collect the accumulated mail and return it to the local post office. If no one empties the mailbox, mail will build up and may be thrown out or marked as a return to sender.

What Happens if You Don't Notify USPS of Your Address Change

If you don't notify USPS of your address change, your mail will continue going to your old address. This means that you won't receive any mail or packages sent via UPS, Fedex, DHL, or other shippers. However, official USPS Change of Address won't affect mail or packages sent via these carriers.

Benefits of Mail Forwarding

Mail forwarding with USPS is a great service if you're getting paper bills, notices, packages, and other important pieces of mail from senders who may not be aware of your new address. It's also useful for receiving mail from senders who have been notified of your new address but haven't had time to update their records.

In conclusion, setting up mail forwarding with USPS is an essential step in the moving process. By understanding how it works and the fees associated with it, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, USPS mail forwarding is a valuable service that will help you receive important mail at your new address.

Us postal service forward mail change address