The safest way to mail important documents is to use registered mail with a receipt. The United States Postal Service provides several options for sending items via Registered Mail , including Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail and First Class Mail. However, the preferred method is Priority Mail Express International™, which includes tracking and delivery confirmation services in most countries.

Registered Mail is the most secure method of mailing items that have value. The USPS provides a list of documents that are required for this service . It includes passports, wills, deeds, jewelry, contracts or any other important papers. Registered Mail with a receipt offers protection against loss or damage up to $25,000 and in some cases more depending on how the shipment is mailed.

Registered Mail offers more protection than regular mail. The postage fee for this service varies depending on the weight or volume of items being shipped, but it typically costs around $12 to send a small envelope weighing less than one pound within the U.S. The cost can be several times that amount if more than one item needs to be sent. NOTE: There is no extra fee when using Priority Mail Express International™ for mail with a value of $100,000 or less.

Registered Mail with a receipt doesn’t offer any protection in case the shipment is delayed in customs and it must be opened by the proper authority before reaching its destination. The USPS does not guarantee that the mail will be delivered within a specific amount of time, but it usually gets there in seven to 10 days.

Express Mail International cannot be registered or insured. Sending the mail via Priority Mail Express International™ provides tracking, confirmation of delivery and limited insurance coverage for documents up to $200.

Another safest way to mail important documents safely is to scan the document into a PDF file and email it as an attachment. The receiving party can print the files off and use them as they would any other document. Send the email to yourself to make sure that they arrive safely, since not all providers have access to international email servers.

Many countries have local equivalents for legal forms and other documentation. See the USPS International Mail Manual: Country Listings for a list of popular destinations and the types of documents that can be sent to them by mail.

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The following table lists weights and prices for Registered Mail service at the time this article was written . Keep in mind that fees are subject to change without notice.

Value of Contents Maximum Weight* Price * up to USD $50,000 or EUR 45,000 or GBP 38,000 Up to 20 pounds for U.S.; up to 30 pounds for international (varies by destination) $38.95 ** up to USD $100,000 or EUR 90,000 or GBP 75,000 Up to 20 pounds for U.S.; up to 30 pounds for international (varies by destination) $69.40 ** up to USD $500,000 or EUR 450,000 or GBP 382,500 Up to 20 pounds for U.S.; up to 30 pounds for international (varies by destination) $141.85 ** up to USD $1,000,000 or EUR 900,000 or GBP 750,000 Up to 20 pounds for U.S.; up to 30 pounds for international (varies by destination) $203.55 **

* If the total weight of the contents is over 30 pounds, the mailer must provide a written statement explaining what is in the package and its value.

** Carrier insurance coverage of up to $100 may be purchased for Priority Mail Express International™ shipments that have a weight or contents value of less than $200.

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There are many countries where it is not advisable to use Registered Mail service. These countries include Iraq, Afghanistan and many other countries where there is a higher risk of terrorism or theft from the mail. In addition, some African and Asian countries have been known to open mail to inspect for counterfeit currency or other valuables. If you’re not sure about a particular country’s security procedures, it’s best to use another method of shipment.

Also, as a good practice when sending mail overseas, the sender’s name and address should be clearly visible on top of the mailing container to avoid confusion or loss of time should the mail need to be forwarded. Many countries require customs forms for incoming mail and these forms must be completed accurately and legibly.