If you’re a realtor or local business owner relying on direct mail for client outreach, branding, or listings, July 13, 2025 brings a crucial update: the USPS is implementing its largest average postage rate increase in a decade, impacting First‑Class mail, postcards, flats, and more. Here’s everything you need to know—and how to adapt.
USPS’s 2025 rate update raises mailing service prices by approximately 7.4%, with specific increases as follows:
| Mail Type | Rate Before July 13 | Rate After July 13, 2025 | Average Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| EDDM Retail (Flats) | ~$0.198 per piece | ~$0.214 per piece | ~8% |
| First‑Class Postcard (1 oz) | $0.56 | $0.62 | 10.7% |
| First‑Class Letter (Metered, 1 oz) | $0.69 | $0.74 | 7.2% |
| Marketing Mail Flats (Commercial) | ~$0.85–$1.15 | ~$0.91–$1.25 | ~7–10% |
| Domestic Postcard (Retail) | $0.56 | $0.62 | +$0.06 |
There are also increases to First‑Class Flats (e.g., 1 oz flats increasing from $1.50 to $1.65) and Certified Mail fees, which are rising by roughly $0.25.
Even a small increase—just a nickel or a dime—can add up quickly. For example, a realtor mailing 5,000 postcards to promote an open house will see the cost jump by $300, from $2,800 to $3,100. For businesses running recurring campaigns, these rate hikes can significantly affect both ROI and budgeting.
These changes are part of the USPS’s Delivering for America strategy, a 10-year plan aimed at financial sustainability after a 68% decline in mail volume since 2007.
While costs are going up, the impact of direct mail is increasing, too. With fewer businesses using traditional mail, your message has less competition and a higher chance of standing out.
Direct mail continues to offer one of the strongest ROIs across marketing channels—averaging 112%+ in some nonprofit benchmarks. For realtors and small businesses, sending the right message to the right people at the right time can lead to high-quality leads and meaningful conversions.
Use local MLS data, CRM lists, and demographic segmentation to mail only to high-value prospects. Fewer recipients = lower costs with better results.
One of the most budget-friendly options available to realtors and small business owners is Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM). Unlike traditional mail, which requires a mailing list, EDDM targets entire postal carrier routes—allowing you to saturate neighborhoods, ZIP codes, or specific radii without address data.
Even after the July 2025 increase, EDDM rates remain among the lowest:
This is far less than First-Class or standard postcard rates and is especially ideal for farming local areas, announcing open houses, or promoting services to all residents in a geographic area.
To prepare for the rate hike and stay competitive, here’s a simple plan:
Let’s say a realtor sends 3,500 postcards to a local ZIP code:
Alternative: Using EDDM at $0.214 per piece:
3,500 × $0.214 = $749, saving over $1,400 compared to standard postcards.
Instead of cutting back, use the rate change to outmaneuver competitors who scale down:
| Service | New Rate |
|---|---|
| Forever Stamp (1 oz) | $0.78 |
| Metered Letter (1 oz) | $0.74 |
| Postcard | $0.62 |
| Additional Ounce | $0.29 |
| Presort First-Class Automation | ~$0.672 |
| Marketing Mail Flats (1–4 oz) | $0.77–$1.19 |
| EDDM Retail (Flats) | ~$0.214 |
Yes, postage is becoming more expensive—but that doesn’t mean direct mail should be abandoned. Instead, mail smarter:
In today’s quieter mailboxes, your message can carry more weight than ever. Realtors and small businesses who adapt now will enjoy lower competition and a clearer path to growth.
Need help re-engineering your direct mail program?
We offer tailored services to help you:
Let’s get you positioned for success before the July 13 USPS update.
About Jenny DixonJennifer has been apart of the EliteFlyers.com team for over 15 years. She brings a deep understanding of web marketing, thoughtful strategies, that she's able to design, manage, print, deliver multi-media campaigns to meet all client's goals. Her personal portfolio includes high-end design and printing of business cards, flyers, post cards for elite businesses and individuals from all over the world.
