New rule for mailing packages

The United States Postal Service has established a new rule for packages and envelopes that weigh more than 13 ounces if they're being mailed with only stamps as postage and at a location other than a post office or contract postal unit.

For these packages customers can use one of several online postage applications which are available at any time or an automated postal center.

This applies to packages that are mailed at Postal Service collection boxes, post office lobby mail slots and for packages left for pickup by a letter carrier.

Previously, the prohibition applied to mail more than 16 ounces.

The change is part of ongoing security measures established by the Postal Service, in cooperation with other government agencies, to keep the public, customers, employees and the mail safe.