Whether you have been using postage stamps for the past 20 years or you are just now getting into the practice, there is probably a good chance that you are using first-class stamps or forever stamps to mail out your packages and letters.
If not, you should be, because they can provide you with a wide range of different benefits.
However, if you are not familiar with first-class stamps there are a variety of things that you need to be aware of before you just go out and blindly start purchasing first-class stamps.
Below, you will learn more information about these 1st class stamps and where exactly you can buy them.
What Are First Class Stamps?
Before you can understand first-class stamps, the first thing that you need to know is that the postage rates for stamps increase every year, and first-class stamps were created to combat this issue.
First-class stamps have not been around forever, but they have grown greatly in popularity since they can into existence. In fact, more and more people are taking advantage of the unique properties of these stamps every day.
These stamps were first rolled out into the market in 2007 and the first-ever stamp featured a picture of the Liberty Bell.
These stamps are totally unique, as they never expire. And, they can be used to mail one-ounce letters at the same price, regardless of the postage increases.
How Postage Worked Before The First Class Stamp?
So, how did things work before the first-class stamp came into existence? Well, anytime the stamp prices went up, you were required to purchase additional stamps to add to your letter to equal to the cost of the new stamps.
For instance, if you were mailing out a one-ounce letter in 2005 that costs .26 cents, but were using a 2005 stamp that was worth .23 cents, you would have to purchase an additional 1 or 2-cent stamp to make up for the postage rise.
Due to these revelations, a lot of customers would just stick 2 old stamps on a one-ounce letter rather than paying the additional 1 to 2 cents. Some individuals ended up not even using their old stamps and just buying new ones.
Needless to say, this resulted in a lot of wasted stamps, and this is why the United Stamps Post Office came up with the ideal for first-class stamps.
Understanding The Pros And Cons Of 1st Class Stamps
If you are mailing out letters and bills on a weekly or daily basis, it makes perfect sense to purchase first-class stamps, because they can save you a few pennies here and there.
Of course, this might not sound like much, but it can really add up. In addition to this, you will have a large supply of stamps, which will prevent you from having to run to the store or post office every time you need to simply mail out a letter or package.
However, if you are one of those people that are taking advantage of the Internet and paying your bills online, it really doesn’t make any sense to invest in 1st class stamps because they probably won’t get used or end up just getting lost.
The Local Wal-Mart
Walmart is without a doubt one of the most popular shopping destinations throughout the world. In fact, the store has even gone international, as there are several Walmart locations all throughout the world.
However, in other countries, they are not referred to as Wal-Mart, but they are pretty much the same store. With that being said, Wal-Mart stores are usually open around the clock and have a variety of different offerings.
You can purchase anything from groceries to new tries, to even stamps. If you ever find yourself in need of 1st class stamps and want to do a little shopping at the same time, you can always visit your local Walmart.
The Local Bank
You can always find a bank in any town, city, or even in most small villages. However, banks aren’t open around the clock.
In fact, their hours are fairly limited, but if you find yourself in need of some banking be sure to pick up your first-class stamps at the same time.
Banks might not have everything you need to send out a letter or package, but they will surely be able to provide you with the stamps that you need.
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Take Advantage Of Gas Stations
Not every gas station out there sells 1st class stamps, but most of them do. While a lot of gas stations are not open 24 hours, they do offer more convenient hours than banks.
Plus, you probably find yourself at a gas station at least once or twice a week depending on your daily commute. So, the next time you are at the gas station filling up on gas be sure to get your booklet of first-class stamps.