“Prepaid postage stamp” may refer to an adhesive stamp, but prepaid postage also appears as a printed envelope indicium, shipping label, meter impression or permit marking.

Choose by mailpiece: Use adhesive stamps for eligible letters and some other mail when you know the exact total. Use a shipping label when the class, tracking, routing and package data need to travel together.

Five common forms

FormWhat it isBest check
Adhesive postage stampPhysical stamp applied to the mailpieceValidity, service value and total postage
Stamped envelope/cardPostal stationery with a printed indiciumValue represented and whether extra postage is needed
Online shipping labelPrinted label encoding postage and routing dataClass, weight, dimensions, date and tracking
Meter impressionPostage printed by an approved meter systemDate, amount and meter rules
Permit imprintIndicia used under a mailing permitPermit, preparation and minimum-volume rules

A decision workflow

  1. Classify the completed item as a letter, flat, postcard or package.
  2. Measure and weigh it, including contents and packaging.
  3. Select the mailing class and any added service.
  4. Decide whether you need a label with tracking or can use physical postage.
  5. Buy or apply the exact required amount and place it where USPS directs.

Do not treat “prepaid” as “everything is covered.” A stamped envelope may still need added postage when weight, shape, destination or services increase the price.

Packages paid with stamps

Physical stamps can pay postage for some domestic packages, but acceptance and security rules matter. A package over 10 ounces or more than one-half inch thick that bears only stamps must be presented at a Post Office retail counter rather than dropped into an unattended collection point. Verify current rules and the finished package.

Use our postage calculator guide for the initial estimate, then confirm with USPS.

Sources and review note

Reviewed August 31, 2026. Postal products, prices and rules can change; verify current USPS guidance before mailing or buying.

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  • envelope stampIdentify or obtain an envelope with valid postage and distinguish it from envelope rubber stamps or postage printed by software.
  • metered mail vs stamped mailUnderstand Stamped Vs Metered and apply it correctly.

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Primary sources