Dictionary of Marketing Terms: Standard Mail (A) and (B)
Standard Mail (A) and (B)
class of bulk mail, as defined by the U.S. Postal Service, that includes all mail except First-Class and periodicals. The Standard Mail designation was created in 1998, replacing Third Class and fourth class. Standard Mail (A) includes circulars, form letters, catalogs, newsletters, direct-mail promotions, and merchandise weighing less than 16 ounces. Standard Mail (B) includes books and parcels weighing between 16 ounces and 70 pounds. Standard Mail (A) and Standard Mail (B) each have their own classification, eligibility, and preparation standards and postage rates. In the late 1990s, Standard Mail (A) represented more than 40% of the mail delivered by the USPS.
