Using your NC post office is about to cost more. Here’s when & how much
The United States Postal Service is adjusting its rates in 2026, with new shipping prices set to take effect on Sunday, Jan. 18 as part of its ongoing efforts to stay financially sustainable and competitive with private carriers.
The adjustments come as the postal service continues implementing parts of its long-term Delivering for America plan to modernize operations — but for North Carolina residents who rely on both everyday mail and parcel delivery, the changes mean more expensive packages.
Here’s what you need to know.
How much will USPS shipping costs increase in 2026?
The postal service announced in December that shipping prices will rise starting Jan. 18, saying the increase is needed to keep the agency “competitive.” Rates vary based on a package’s weight, size, destination and delivery speed.
Here’s how much prices will increase, according to the release:
- Priority Mail service: 6.6%
- Priority Main Express service: 5.1%
- Ground Advantage: 7.8%
- Parcel Select: 6%
Will the USPS raise the cost of postage stamps in 2026?
No. Mailing services will not see an increase in January, meaning the price of a postage stamp will remain the same, according to USPS.
That doesn’t mean stamp prices are off the table for the rest of the year. The USPS typically raises stamp rates twice annually, in January and July, so another increase could be announced closer to summer.
How could a new rule impact delivery timing of documents?
A rule change that went into effect in December clarified that the date printed on mail reflects when a piece of mail is processed at a USPS facility, not necessarily the day it was dropped off at a mailbox or post office, The Charlotte Observer reported.
That means mail-in ballots, tax payments, bills, legal documents and other things that depend on the postmark date could get a later one, even if it was mailed on time, and they could be rejected in places that could require it to be postmarked by a certain deadline.
This new rule doesn’t change how mail is handled; it simply clarifies what the postmark actually means, according to USPS.
Inspired by a story from The Sun Herald in Mississippi.
