Transaction Cards
The following provides a breakdown of all classes of mail and can serve as a guide when completing a transaction card. For any clarification or questions, please email departmentmail@vt.edu or call 540-231-2149.
First class mail: Letter, postcards, large envelope/flat
Letters must be rectangular and meet the following size requirements: at least 3 1/2 inches high, 5 inches long, and 0.007 inches thick, but no more than 6 1/8 inches high, 11 1/2 inches long, and 1/4 inch thick. First-class letters that are rigid, square, unusually shaped, or contain items that create uneven thickness (such as pens, pencils, or keys) will incur a non-machinable surcharge. The maximum weight for letters is 3.5 ounces. They are not eligible for USPS tracking.
Postcards must be rectangular and meet the following dimensions: at least 3 1/2 inches high, 5 inches long, and 0.0007 inches thick, but no more than 4 1/4 inches high, 6 inches long, and 0.016 inches thick.
It must be flexible and free of objects like pens, pencils, or pins. It must have at least one dimension greater than 6 1/8 inches in height, 11 ½ inches in length, or ¼ inch in thickness. The maximum dimensions allowed are 12 inches in height, 15 inches in length, and ¾ inch in thickness, with a maximum weight of 13 ounces.
USPS Ground Advantage
2-5 Business Days. Items larger than a large envelope, or any large envelope that is rigid or contains objects like pens, will be sent using this method. Padded envelopes are also automatically sent by this method. The maximum weight is 70 lbs. The maximum combined length and girth is 130 inches. Cost is calculated based on weight and zip code zone. Tracking is available upon request.
Certified/Return Receipt Mail
Certified/Return Receipt Mail is a USPS service that provides the sender with an official receipt as proof of mailing. A Return Receipt can be added, where the recipient signs a Return Receipt Postcard attached to the mail, which is then returned to the sender as proof of delivery. All forms can be ordered for free from USPS.com.
Priority Mail
Priority Mail offers flat rate shipping materials available for free from USPS.com. When using flat rate mailers, the price is based on the mailer used, not the weight or destination zip code. Delivery is typically 1-3 days. Free tracking is available from VT Mail Services upon request. If using your own mailer, the cost depends on weight and destination zip code. The maximum weight is 70 lbs.
Express Mail
Express Mail guarantees overnight delivery and provides free packaging from USPS.com. It is the most expensive shipping option and includes free automatic tracking. The department must complete the Express Label before sending the item to Mail Services for postage. The maximum weight is 70 lbs.
Media Mail
Media Mail is the cheapest shipping service, with prices based on weight rather than distance. It is slower than other USPS services and is intended for shipping books, sound recordings, recorded video tapes, printed music, or recorded computer-readable media (such as CDs, DVDs, and diskettes). It must not contain documents, and each package sent via Media Mail must be marked “Media Mail” on the outside.