USPS Axes Airmail M-Bags Because World Says 'No Thanks' Anymore
Published Date: 8/27/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting January 17, 2027, the Postal Service is changing how it handles International Direct Sacks—Airmail M-Bags by removing outbound M-Bags from their services. This update follows global postal rules that shifted M-Bags from a basic to an optional service, with many countries no longer accepting inbound M-Bags. If you use or rely on international mail services, keep an eye out and share your thoughts by September 8, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Outbound M‑Bags Service Removed
On January 17, 2027, the Postal Service will remove outbound International Direct Sacks—Airmail M‑Bags from its Mail Classification Schedule. If you currently send printed matter overseas using outbound M‑Bags, that service option will no longer be available starting on that date.
UPU Reclassified M‑Bags; 53 Countries Exited
The Universal Postal Union reclassified M‑Bags from a basic service to an optional supplementary service effective January 1, 2025, and the Postal Service says postal operators of 53 countries decided they would no longer accept inbound M‑Bags. This change in international acceptance is cited as a reason for the Postal Service's January 17, 2027 changes.
Certificate & Price‑List Changes for M‑Bags
Also effective January 17, 2027, the Postal Service will remove the combination of the International Certificate of Mailing with M‑Bags and will change Notes in the Part D Country Price Lists for international mail. The Postal Service will also update MCS section 2320 to add information about International Priority Airmail M‑Bags.
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