Postal shipping rates to increase next week

For any last minute Christmas gifts or anything else in need of shipping, you may want to get them in the mail before Jan. 18.

On that Sunday, shipping costs are going to rise, as they do annually.

Theresa Lumley, officer in charge at the Williston Post Office, said this includes express mail, priority mail, parcel select, parcel return select, global express and priority mail international.

"The average increase will be 5.7 percent for express mail," Lumley said. "Flat rate envelopes will be $17.50."

She said express mail was previously $16.50 for the flat rate envelope.

"The move to January price changes for shipping services is consistent with our competitors. It provides a clear picture of the affordable services we offer," added Lumley.

However, this increase only applies to shipping services.

"Price changes for mailing services including stamp prices and extra services will be announced in February with implementation in May," said Lumley. "So our annual stamp increases will be in May every year."