Postage to Italy: How Many Forever Stamps for a Letter from the US?
Quick Answer
As of **January 2024**, a standard 1-ounce (28 g) letter from the United States to Italy requires **$1.65 in postage**.
- 3 Forever Stamps (each worth current 1-oz domestic rate = $0.68) = $2.04 — **overpays by $0.39**.
- 2 Forever Stamps + $0.29 additional = exact.
- 1 Global Forever Stamp ($1.65) = exact, designed for 1-oz international letters.
Current Rates (USPS, Effective Jan 21, 2024)
| Service | 1 oz | 2 oz | 3 oz | 3.5 oz (max letter) |
|---|
| First-Class Mail International (Letter) | $1.65 | $1.65 | $2.32 | $2.99 |
| Global Forever Stamp | $1.65 | — | — | — |
| Domestic Forever Stamp | $0.68 | $0.92 | $1.16 | $1.40 |
Key: International letter rate is **flat $1.65 for 1–2 oz**. Above 2 oz, flats pricing applies.
Practical Options
| Combo | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| 1 Global Forever | $1.65 | Exact, simple, valid forever | Must buy separately |
| 2 Forever + 1¢×29 (or 3¢×10 + 1¢× -1?) | $1.65 | Uses common stamps | Need low-denom stamps |
| 3 Forever | $2.04 | Convenient if only Forever on hand | Overpay 24% |
| Post office counter | $1.65 | Exact, printed label, tracking option | Trip required |
| Click-N-Ship / Pirate Ship / Stamps.com | $1.65+ | Print at home, schedule pickup, tracking | Account needed |
Important Rules
- Max weight for "letter" rate: 3.5 oz (100 g). Heavier → flats/parcels.
- Size limits: Rectangular, min 5"×3.5", max 11.5"×6.125", thickness ≤ 0.25". Non-machinable surcharge ($0.44) if rigid, lumpy, clasps, address not parallel to long side.
- Customs form: **PS Form 2976 (green customs declaration CN22)** required for all international mail. Attach to outside. Declare contents/value honestly.
- Prohibited: Perishables, aerosols, lithium batteries (loose), alcohol, currency, etc. Check USPS IMM country page for Italy.
- Delivery time: 7–21 business days typical; no guaranteed date. Tracking only with Registered Mail International ($30+) or upgraded services.
Forever Stamp Value History
- 2007: $0.41
- 2019: $0.55
- 2021: $0.58
- 2022: $0.60
- 2023 (Jan): $0.63
- 2023 (Jul): $0.66
- 2024 (Jan): $0.68
Forever stamps always equal current 1-oz domestic rate. Global Forever = current 1-oz international letter rate.
Bottom Line
Buy **Global Forever stamps** for international letters. If using domestic Forevers, use **2 + $0.29** (e.g., 10¢×2 + 3¢×3 + 1¢×4) or just overpay with 3. Don't guess—weigh it.
Wanderlust World