If you send on p.o. Machine and list it as a parcel, it is much cheaper and also has a tracking number on it.

The flat rate envelope did have the most insane price jump! However, now first class comes with free tracking, and you can now mail up to 1 lb. flat rate, whereas before the cutoff was 13 ounces. I use flat rate for every package that qualifies, weightwise, and they are usually delivered as fast as priority.

When I'm sending a wall hanging I prefer to send them flat rather than folding and stuffing them into a small envelope so I will pay a few extra $s for it and be happy. The last one I mailed cost almost $10 and was over 2' square. I think it is money well spent to insure the safe arrival of the quilt to a new home. I do not have extra money to spend so I plan for the cost of mailing.
peace

I had not realized that Priority Mail had a price increase in January, so I had to absorb the extra cost for an order I had to mail out last week. There is supposed to be a price decrease after Income Tax due time, but I don't know if it is for all mail or just 1st Class. I also find it hard to believe they would lower a price.