Understanding Mailing Certificate
As an e-commerce merchant, when you dispatch a shipment and the recipient has yet to receive it or if there are shipping issues, a certificate of mailing becomes a crucial document that attests to the specific date of sending the item.
This piece will delve into the concept of a certificate of mailing and elucidate its significance for business proprietors.
What Constitutes a USPS® Certificate of Mailing?
The USPS® Certificate of Mailing serves as documentation validating that an item was posted on a specific date. It doesn't ascertain the delivery date, offer proof of shipping, or furnish insurance against loss. This certificate solely provides the date of mailing.
This certificate proves invaluable if you ever need an official document as a backup or evidence of mailing to counter potential issues such as loss or theft.
Acquiring a certificate of mailing is feasible only when you visit the post office to dispatch mail. However, not all USPS® services include a certificate. The following USPS® services extend the USPS® Certificate of Mailing:
- First-Class or Priority Mail
- First-Class Package Service-Commercial (excluding parcels sent at commercial plus prices)
- Priority Mail
- USPS® Retail Ground
- Bound Printed Matter
- Library Mail
- Media Mail
USPS® offers various certificates of mailing tailored to different requirements, each accompanied by its form. The available forms include PS Form 3817, PS Form 3665, PS Form 3877, PS Form 3606, and PS Form 3606-D.
When is the Usage of a USPS® Certificate of Mailing Appropriate?
Despite assurances from postal service providers like USPS® regarding accurate mail delivery, the possibility of errors always exists.
Instances such as mail misplacement, damage, or delivery to the wrong address may occur. In such scenarios, a certificate of mailing proves invaluable in averting unnecessary issues, particularly for urgent or time-sensitive mail. For instance:
- Mailing checks: When sending checks through postal mail, security is paramount. Acquiring a certificate of mailing provides proof of shipment if the check goes undelivered.
- Mailing tax forms: Tax forms are time-sensitive documents, and failure to send them promptly may lead to penalties. Obtaining proof of mailing ensures security in case the tax forms are lost in transit.
- Mailing government forms or legal documents: When dispatching crucial government forms or legal documents, having proof of mailing can be advantageous.
- Mailing time-sensitive documents: To alleviate concerns about missing deadlines for timely documents, a certificate of mailing establishes that the item was shipped on time.
What is the Cost of a USPS® Certificate of Mailing?
The cost of obtaining a certificate of mailing varies annually. However, using the USPS® Certificate of Mailing is generally affordable. As of 2021, the price stood at $1.55 for this service. Prices may differ based on whether the certificate is purchased with or without an individual article, and utilizing an individual article with a Firm Mailing Book often offers a more economical option.
Is Certified Mail Secure?
Yes, certified mail is considered secure as it maintains a record of everyone handling the shipment, and a signature is required upon delivery. This ensures that the letter or shipment is not left vulnerable in a mailbox.
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