USPS Services and Definitions

The Lafayette College Mail Center is here to provide convenient mailing services to the College community. The following information will explain the services available at our Mail Center. Please feel free to visit our office or call 610-330-5350  or email us at postoffice@lafayette.edu with any additional questions.

Location
Farinon Center, Lower Level

Hours
Monday-Friday– 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Saturday– 9 a.m.- noon (during school year)

Staff

Postmaster——–  Robert G. Walsh I

Head Clerk——— Cindy L. Guinn

Delivery Clerk—— David C. Bargowski

Clerk—————–  Charles K. Rickenbach

Clerk—————–  Cindy Notaroberto

United States Postal Service (USPS) Services and Definitions
01. First Class Mail – Letters and Packages
02. Priority Mail
03. Express Mail (overnight service to select locations)
04. Certified Mail
05. Insured Mail
06. Return Receipt
07. International Mail
08. International Express Mail (usually three to five business days)
09. Global Priority Mail
10. Money Orders (cash only)
11. Postage Stamps [Stamps are available for purchase at the Mail Center. Orders for large quantities or unusual amounts should be placed one month in advance.]

First Class Mail
A class of mail that includes all matter wholly or partly in writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection. First Class Mail comprises three subclasses: postcards, letters and sealed parcels, and Priority Mail. Any mailable matter may be sent as First Class Mail.

Priority Mail
First Class Mail that weighs more than 13 ounces and, at the mailer’s option, any other mail matter weighing 13 ounces or less. Priority Mail provides expedited delivery. Any mailable matter may be sent as Priority Mail. All Priority Mail must be handed to the window clerk. You CANNOT place Priority Mail in a USPS Mailbox.

 

Express Mail
A mail class that provides expedited delivery service for mailable matter subject to certain standards. Express Mail International Service is available between the United States and most foreign countries. Must be at the College’s Mail Center by 1 p.m.

Certified Mail
A service that provides the sender with a mailing receipt. A record of delivery is kept at the post office of address. This type of mail must be sent at First Class Mail or Priority Mail rates. Certified mail may be combined with return receipt service.

Insured Mail
A service that provides indemnity coverage for a lost, rifled, or damaged article, subject to the standards for the service and payment of the applicable fee.

Return Receipt
The mailing card (Form 3811 for domestic mail) signed by the addressee of an article and mailed back to the sender as evidence of delivery. This supplemental mail service is available for a fee when using Express Mail or certified mail or mail insured for more than $50.00.

International Mail
Mail originating in one country with a destination in another.

Money Orders
Are available for your convenience (cash only), Monday-Friday until 2 p.m. A fee is charged per money order.

Postage Stamp
A gummed or self-adhesive paper stamp affixed to mail as payment for postal services. Stamps are available for purchase for individual or office use.