How Many Stamps to Mail A Letter to Canada

You will need a single Global Forever stamp to mail letters or postcards weighing up to 1 ounce through First-Class Mail International. Mail pieces with more weight might need two Global Forever Stamps. It is also possible to use domestic Forever or Cent stamps to pay postage for sending mail to Canada.

People use these stamps for mailing business documents, greeting cards, transactional mail, publication mail, advertising mail, and more. A Global Forever Stamp is worth $1.70 and is only capable of sending First-Class International mailers, not packages.

While Canada and America share Niagara Falls, one thing they don’t share is a postal system. Though they have the same landmass, they are neighboring countries with two separate mailing organizations, i.e., Canada Post and USPS.

Hence, you must know how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada if you want to send a crucial document or ship a birthday postcard to a cousin!

USPS offers numerous international mailing options to send mail and packages to Canada and other countries. But, you should apply the correct postage and follow the guidelines to get your items through the border! Knowing how many stamps to send a letter to Canada can make the job easier for you.

In this blog, let us dig deeper into international mailing options and rates. Also, we will help you know how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada without any issues!

Now that you know how many stamps to send a letter to Canada, let's discuss the rates! A Global Forever stamp is worth $1.70, and one is enough to mail greeting cards, business documents, transactional mail, publications, advertising letters, etc. 

But remember that shipping rates to Canada vary with your item’s dimensions, weight, and mailing service. Hence, how many stamps to send a letter to Canada can differ considerably for every mailpiece!

According to USPS, the $1.70 postage rate is only for First-Class Mail International items, not packages. Also, other classes like Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International cost more. So, affix more stamps to get your postage value up to the mailing cost.  

Price Breakdown for Different Mail Types to Canada 

First-Class Mail International

Below, we have mentioned the First-Class Mail International rates issued by USPS to help you know further how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada speedily:

Source: USPS

While you learn how many stamps to send a letter to Canada, note that you round up to the higher ounce if your item’s weight falls between two categories. Moreover, the prices above are for Group 1 (Canada), effective as of January 2026. Also, you can buy the exact postage amount at a USPS Kiosk or Post Office to avoid overpaying. 

Please note: The prices don’t include the nonmachinable letter surcharge of $0.49. You must pay it separately to the Post Office. 

Priority Mail International 

Unlike First-Class Mail for sending letters, you will need to fill out customs forms and tracking labels for this mailing class. 

Source: USPS

It might be possible to use stamps to send mailers via Priority Mail International. However, it is highly advisable to pay for labels at the counter instead of sticking dozens of stamps on the package. 

Priority Mail Express International

It is the fastest option to send your mail or packages to Canada (three to five business days). USPS also offers date-certain delivery with a money-back guarantee. So, you should go for this option for anything time-sensitive and urgent.

Source: USPS

First-Class Package International 

You cannot stick stamps on these packages like First-Class Mail letters. Then, you also have to take care of digital or physical customs declaration forms like the PS form 2976-R. Mailing experts recommend visiting a USPS retail counter to pay for the postage and get a tracking label. Besides, First-Class Package International is ideal for sending lightweight merchandise. 

Source: USPS

How to Calculate Stamps Needed to Mail to Canada 

You might not have a stamp of the exact value of the mailing service you are using. Usually, people use different combinations of stamps to cover the total value of the postage. However, you might need to round up for the next whole number if the amount doesn’t match. Here’s what you need to do calculately accurately: 

Step 1: Identify the Mail Type 

First, you need to differentiate between a standard letter and a large envelope. A regular envelope can have dimensions up to 6-1/8″ x 11-1/2″. In comparison, large flats can go up to 12″ x 15″. 

Step 2: Weigh the Mailpiece 

Use a kitchen scale to weigh your mailers. Usually, envelopes with one to four sheets of paper weigh under an ounce. Heavier envelopes will have more than five sheets. 

Step 3: Understand the Postage Rates 

A standard letter (1oz) costs $1.70 for international postage. At the same time, a large envelope/flat (1oz) will cost you $3.15

Step 4: Know Stamp Values 

A single Global Forever Stamp is worth $1.78 as of January 2026. If you want to mail domestically, then a Domestic Forever Stamp costs $0.78. 

Step 5: Calculate the Postage Cost 

As a basic rule, you should follow this formula: 

Number of Stamps = Total Postal Cost / Value of a Single Stamp 

Example: You want to mail a large envelope (9″ x 12″) with a contract or certificate weighing 1 ounce to Canada. The total postage cost would be $3.15. By applying the above formula, you will need 1.8529 stamps. 

Step 6: Round Up to the Next Whole Number 

Since using 1.85 stamps isn’t practically possible. So, we will consider adding another full stamp to cover the postage. 

Step 7: Apply the Stamp 

Stick the necessary stamp/s on the envelope. Always ensure the value of stamps is equal to or higher than the required postage cost to avoid delays or rejections.

Calculate Postage for Different Weights for First-Class Mail International

Below, we have mentioned the First-Class Mail International rates issued by USPS to help you know further how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada speedily:

Source: USPS

Please note: The prices don’t include the nonmachinable letter surcharge of $0.39. You must pay it separately to the Post Office. 

Calculate Postage for Different Weights and Dimensions for First-Class Mail International According to USPS

Source: USPS

While you learn how many stamps to send a letter to Canada, note that you round up to the higher ounce if your item’s weight falls between two categories. 

Comparison Between Domestic Forever Stamps and Global Forever Stamps

USPS provides customers with Global Forever stamps for international mailing. Hence, your first and most effective option is to use these stamps to send something to Canada. But, many people inquire whether they can use their domestic Forever stamps for global shipping, and the answer is yes!

First, calculate your postage to know how many Forever stamps to send a letter to Canada. As said earlier, one Global Forever stamp of $1.70 is enough to send 2-ounce items. If you use the domestic Forever stamp, you must use at least three stamps to cover the total value.

Now, let’s see the Forever stamp rates to understand more about the question.

Can I mail a letter to Canada with Forever stamps?

Currently, one Forever stamp costs $0.78, making the rate of three  stamps $2.34.

Hence, you overpay by $0.64. However, you cannot use only two stamps because it totals $1.56, and you cannot mail anything to Canada at that value!

It is faster, easier, and cost-effective to buy and use Global Forever stamps instead of overpaying.

 Also Read: The Basics of Integrated Direct Mail Marketing Campaign

Items that weigh more than 3.5 ounces are broader than the standard USPS sizes. You can send these mailpieces as flats and attach the appropriate number of postal stamps. Flats are also those items whose dimensions don’t match the Post Office guidelines!

The rates are relatively higher, and you need at least two Global Forever stamps to mail a letter or card of more than 3.5 ounces. Below, we have mentioned the USPS flat dimensions to help you know how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada hassle-free:

• Minimum 6.5” high and 11.5” long. 
• Maximum think should be 0.75”. 
• Not exceeding 12” in height and 15” in length. 
• Flats can weigh between one to 15.994 ounces. 

Calculate Postage Based on Different Weights When Sending Flat-Sized Items

According to USPS, here are the rates for sending flat-sized items to Canada via First-Class Mail International:

Source: USPS

Example of Common Mailing Scenarios

You may use several stamp combinations after knowing how many stamps to send a letter to Canada via First-Class Mail International. Here are some combinations for your convenience:

You can use such combinations for every ounce category to figure out how many stamps for 6 oz to mail a letter to Canada, Mexico, and other countries.

 Also Read: How to Send Mail to Canada from USA

Other than First-Class Mail International, you can pay more and use USPS’s more premium services for global mailing. Here are some of your best options:

• Priority Mail International: There are no definite First-Class Mail International delivery windows, unlike Priority Mail International. This service gives you a guaranteed delivery of six to ten working days. You can know how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada by calculating flat-rate postage depending on your item’s weight. The rates for Flat Rate Envelopes begin at $32.65, and you get many features, like tracking and $100 insurance.
• Priority Mail Express International: It is an ideal option to increase your mailing speed and get better features. But, try learning how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada beforehand to avoid trouble. The rates start at $59.50 (or $62.70 for Flat Rate Envelopes) and can increase according to the weight. 
• First-Class Package International: If you want to ship packages at lower rates, you can choose this USPS mailing service. It provides you with the E-USPS DELCON INTL, and  the rates begin at $19.40.
• Global Express Guaranteed: It is the fastest mailing service to Canada and other countries, offering a delivery time frame of one to three business days. You can use it for sending urgent items, like tax documents, letters, contracts, business renewals, invoices, statements, etc. The prices start at $67.80, so be careful about how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada when you use this option!

 Also Read: How Long Do Letters Take To Mail To Another State

As discussed above, USPS has several mailing options for domestic and international shipments. You can select one according to your preferences and budget. Luckily, USPS has an online tool to help you know how many forever stamps to send a letter to Canada smoothly! Thus, you can get a pricing estimate beforehand and decide which mailing service you want. 

Another way to increase mailing efficiency is to use PostGrid’s direct mail services. You can automate your mailing tasks and save nearly 75% of costs! Additionally, you get many benefits, like you don’t need to remember how many stamps to send a letter to Canada or what the Post Office rules are! 

You only need to integrate our direct mail API into your system and let PostGrid do everything on your behalf!

 Also Read: Best Direct Mail Automation Software

Use Global Forever Stamps

It is a special type of postage stamp that USPS issues. It allows you to send a 1-ounce postcard or letter from the US to any country, including Canada. It is cheaper than using a Domestic-Forever stamp, and they do not expire even if the postage increases. The best part about this stamp is that you don’t need to calculate postage or mix and match multiple stamps to reach a foreign rate.

Make Sure the Package is Lightweight and Letter-Sized

To avail the lowest rate, try to keep the package under 1 ounce and within standard dimensions, which is 6 ⅛*11 1/2*¼. If you go even slightly higher, you might have to pay double the cost for a large envelope (flat). You can avoid the guessing game by calculating the exact charges you will pay through the USPS retail postage price calculator.

Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons

While they may sound helpful, tracking, insurance, or registered mail are not necessary in regular communication. Unless you are sending something valuable or with sensitive information, we will advise going with First-Class Mail International.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Inaccurate Postage

Your package might get returned or delayed if you do not affix the correct postage. As of January 2026, when you send a 1-ounce standard letter to Canada, you will have to pay $1.70 in postage. Make sure to verify current international postage before mailing. We will advise using Global Forever Stamps, as they ensure correct postage for any international location.

Using Non-Standard Envelope

If you mail letters in a clumpy, rigid envelope or an envelope with clasps, you might have to pay additional charges. There is also a possibility that your package might be deemed not mailable. Always use a standard, letter-sized envelope that is flexible and uniformly thick. Avoid adding prohibited items and check the USPS International Shipping Restrictions before mailing.

Overlooking Custom Requirements for Enclosure

Packages containing only documents do not require custom forms. However, if you are adding merchandise or gifts, you will have to add documentation. Failing to do so can lead to delay or confiscation of the package. If you are adding anything beyond documents, consult the USPS website to check whether or not a custom form is required.

PostGrid’s online direct mail services allow you to send your items to any part of the world at all-inclusive rates. And the best part is you don’t need to do a thing!

Our international printing and mailing network enables you to automate shipping to 245+ countries, including Canada. Hence, gone are the days when you had to worry about how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada! Now, your business can save time and money and cut manual effort—while conducting more effective campaigns.

Hear What Our Customers Say

“We wanted to expand our business operations beyond the US, and our first stop was Canada. Then, we looked for online technology to help us send our documents, letters, and parcels to Canada. It is when we started using PostGrid, and we are glad we did so. PostGrid makes mailing to Canada so effective and quick, and we were surprised to get such a good deal!”- Commented one of our clients during a one-on-one session!

We have clients in all sectors, from education and banks to healthcare! PostGrid helps them determine how many stamps to send a letter to Canada and assists them in every step!

Here are some of our best benefits that some businesses tend to overlook while considering launching a campaign in-house:

• REST API: You can use our API integrations to send letters, postcards, checks, etc., and validate your mailing lists. Thus, you can skip steps like calculating postage and learning how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada and other destinations.
• HIPAA-compliant solutions: Conducting a mailing campaign in-house may pose many problems, like being HIPAA-compliant. Thankfully, our solutions help you send your items lawfully without doing anything extra!
• Zapier integration: Zapier helps you connect with more than 1600 apps, allowing you to expand your database. Hence, you can expand your reach and get more responses.
• Mailing history: Businesses can get a consolidated view of their mailing history by logging into their account and accessing their dashboard. Here, you can also know how many stamps to mail a letter to Canada, i.e., how much you paid for every campaign, and your ROI. Hence, it is easier you keep records and measure your campaign performance.

 Also Read: How Many Stamps to Mail A Letter

Mailing to Canada doesn’t need to be complicated and expensive! You can use the First-Class Mail International service to get the best rates for smooth shipping. We hope this blog answers your question- can I mail a letter to Canada with Forever stamps?

PostGrid can help you print and mail any item you want to Canada whenever you want! Also, our turnkey mailing solutions enable you to increase your revenue and save expenses rapidly! Request a demo now, and PostGrid can help you know how many US stamps to send a letter to Canada and more!

 Also Read: How to Use Nonprofit Stamps?