Canada Post's letter service is the most cost-effective and reliable way to send items within Canada (Lettermail™), to the United States and to other international destinations (Letter-post). With more than 800,000 points of entry and 23,000 retail locations across the country, Canada Post's letter service reaches 12.9 million points of call in Canada. And, when you need quick delivery of letters or documents you can rely on Priority™ Next A.M. and Xpresspost™ for fast, tracked and guaranteed service.

What is a letter?

At Canada Post, the size and weight of your item determines whether it is a Standard, Medium, or an Other Letter.

Standard Letter
Standard Letters include standard-sized letters, greeting cards, postcards, bills and statements. It can also include small items such as photographs. Any item within the dimensions below is considered to be a Standard Letter.

Dimensions Length: 140-245 mm Width: 90-156* mm Thickness: 0.18 - 5 mm Weight: Up to 50 g Aspect ratio: min 1.3:1 – max 2.6:1 Note: Aspect ratio is the relationship between the length and the width of an envelope. Standard Lettermail must be rectangular.

Postcard Dimensions Length: 140-235 mm Width: 90-120 mm Thickness: at least 0.18 mm Weight: Up to 50 g

* 150 mm for U.S. and International destinations

Regardless of weight, letters that do not meet the aspect ratio (e.g. square items) and exceed the dimensions are classified as Medium or Other.

Medium Letter – Available May 15, 2009
Medium letters include any item within the dimensions below. This can also include some greeting cards and specialty stationery.

Dimensions Length: 140 – 235 mm Width: 90 – 165 mm Thickness: 0.18 – 5 mm Weight: up to 50 g

Regardless of weight, letters that exceed these dimensions are classified as Other

Other Letter (Non-standard and Oversize)

Other letters include most legal documents, magazines, and brochures.

Maximum Dimensions Length: 380 mm Width: 270 mm Thickness: 20 mm Weight: 500 g

If the dimensions of an item exceed the maximum size and/or weight for letters, the item is considered a parcel.

Choosing a letter service

Standard Lettermail service delivers letters & documents within 2 days locally; 3 days province-wide and within 4 days anywhere in Canada (except remote locations).

Canada Post has additional services for sending letters & documents. How to choose the service that is best for you?

• Determine the time sensitivity of your letter—does it need to get there in a rush?
• Is it an important document that requires additional options such as signature upon receipt, or tracking??
• Where is your letter going—within Canada, to the USA, or Internationally?

Based on your preferences & destination, Canada Post has a service that will meet your needs. Use our Find a Rate tool to determine what the best service for you is.

Do you often need fast delivery of documents and small items?

Prepaid envelopes are postage paid, flat rate products for sending your important letters and documents with Priority™ Next A.M. and our line of Xpresspost services. You can purchase these products in advance so you always have them on hand. Prepaid envelopes can be dropped off at any Canada Post Post Office. And, for added convenience you can drop off Xpresspost Prepaid items in any Street Letter Box.

Letter service rates

Rates for our letter services are based on item dimensions and weight. Other options are available for an additional fee.

Click here for postage rates.

Running late? In a panic? Need signature or ability to track your item? Use one of our express services.

Some letters & documents are time-sensitive and need to arrive within a guaranteed timeframe. Other items might be more important and you may need to have a signature upon receipt, or have the ability to track the item. If so, then our Registered Mail, Priority™ Next A.M., Priority™ Worldwide, and line of Xpresspost services are for you!

For detailed pricing & options for our express services, use our Find a Rate tool.

Where to buy letter & document services

• Letter & document services can be purchased at any Post Office. Find your local Post Office.
• Visit our online shop to buy stamps and mailing supplies and have them delivered to your door.

Tips for using letter & document services

Prohibitions and Restrictions

You are responsible for ensuring that your letters and documents (including the contents) can be mailed under law. Canadian legislation may prohibit the mailing of certain items, while restricted and prohibited items also vary by country. More information on non-mailable items.

When mailing to destinations outside of Canada, you must ensure that your items meet all current applicable requirements of the international destination and that all Customs and/or other required documentation is provided. More information on Shipping Outside of Canada.

Is your item sealed securely?

You are responsible for ensuring that your item is completely sealed / wrapped to prevent:

• Loss of or damage to the item
• Damage to postal equipment or other mail
• Injury to persons handling the item

Sealing and wrapping requirements may vary according to the item to be mailed. For example, fragile, crushable, oddly shaped, and other types of items require special precautions. Learn More

After you have sent your letter*

Your letter may be gone, but it certainly need not be forgotten. For example, once your item has left your hands, you can:

• Track* the status of your letter online by tracking number, delivery notice card or reference number.



* Only available if you purchase a service that includes delivery confirmation.