Revised USPS Service Standards Take Effect

The first phase of the Postal Service’s updated service standards is now official, as of April 1. 

These changes are projected to save at least $36 billion over 10 years, according to a release. USPS says 75 percent of first-class mail will not be impacted, with 14 percent moving faster and 11 percent moving slower. 

Periodicals, marketing mail and package services will also be affected by the changes.  

The updated standards switch from a three-digit zip code system to a five-digit system, which USPS says will help better track service performance. To that end, a new map is on the USPS website, allowing customers to check service standards in their part of the country. 

The second phase of the new standards will begin rolling out on July 1.