USPS Rate Increase January 4th 2010 AKA Tonight or Tomorrow

You might want to print those USPS labels this evening as rates will be increasing in the next few hours.  My estimation is around 12am EST or 9pm Pacific.  I have a detailed rundown of what’s changing available at USPS Prices Going Up, Staying the Same, Going Down in 2010.  The biggest change is that the cost to ship one pound or less Priority Mail is based on how many zones the package is traveling.  Previously, one pound or less Priority Mail was the same price no matter where it was shipped.  This makes the Flat Rate Envelope and Small Box my package of choice for 2010 for anything that will remotely fit inside of it, as the cost is the same no matter where it is traveling.  Otherwise it’s a fairly standard rate increase from USPS.  No major announcements or changes in service.