We're an international organization, dontcha know? I'll admit to having a large U.S. bias in my... what is this? Reporting? I think it's more like digesting information of interest to me in hopes of framing it to be interesting to other people who are like me, but aren't me. Is that reporting? Anyway, I mention this to say that it's not just the U.S. where postage rates are going up. On March 26th, stamp rates go up in the U.K. as well.
Look, no one likes having to pay more money for things, but such is life! It is pointed out that the rate change is more than inflation, and there's some sort of date shenanigans happening, which results in the Royal Mail donating a portion of the revenue from the change to charity for a week.
Honestly, I am constantly surprised that these systems we have work as well as they do for having so many moving parts. Perhaps it is my new reality, functioning in a corporate environment, learning that there are a dozen people involved in changing one light bulb and that's in a relatively small business. I cannot imagine the logistics behind massive global mailing operations. And really, is it that much more to pay, really? REALLY? I do not understand the obsession with these minute increases in our INCREDIBLE MAIL SERVICES. Anyway, stamps are going up everywhere, and you know what, they should. It's worth it.
On that note, I'll have an announcement on Friday in regards to increases in prices for us, too. The more things change... 
I like your progressive view on the mail price rise. Makes me see it in a different light. I think I was only really irked by it as postcard prices are increasing and I have to remember to use £1.35 instead of £1.25 stamps. I also have a sheet of £1.25 stamps to use up before the price rise, best get writing!
Posted by: Chloe McNaught | March 14, 2019 at 04:45 AM
In Germany prices will rise as well in April. Domestic mail is said to rise by 20 cents, which is quite a lot. Before rises were in the 2-5 cent region. I haven't heard anything about international mail yet but I guess those will rise as well.
Posted by: Jasmin | March 17, 2019 at 04:20 AM
Inflation affects commodities across the board. That little stamp represents fuel for postal vehicles, power to heat and cool facilities and wages for postal workers. It’s a bargain. (Especially the new US Airmail tribute stamps...which I bought just because they’re cool)
Posted by: Jack B. | March 17, 2019 at 09:50 AM
It's funny when we look back at the years of rate increases. I remember so many people getting upset or up-in-arms and nowadays I hardly see that. I get the impression some of it comes from feeling put-upon by an authority figure, similar to when a library book is overdue, one feels threatened or intimidated that they did something "wrong". (I chilled-out with library fines when I looked at it more as a donation since I'm being allowed the use of freebies already.)
Now I wonder if a lot of the concern about rate increases comes from simply reacting how others react.
By the way, I wanted to thank you for the simple postage rates in the margin of this web-log. Whenever I need a basic chart I come here and find what I need. It's very convenient! ^_^
Posted by: Daryl | March 20, 2019 at 12:52 PM
Saw on some shops that offer with higher prices. Does it mean to add some upcharge?
Posted by: Thomas | March 29, 2019 at 02:37 AM