Where Can I Buy Stamps Besides the Post Office?

You can buy stamps at various locations besides the post office, including grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, convenience stores, and online retailers. This guide explores these options in detail, helping you find convenient ways to purchase stamps for your mailing needs.

Online Options for Buying Stamps

Grocery Stores

Many grocery stores sell stamps, making it easy to pick them up while doing your weekly shopping. This option saves time and eliminates the need for a separate trip to the post office.

Popular Grocery Chains Selling Stamps

Walmart: Most Walmart stores offer stamps at their Money Centers or customer service desks. Some locations even have self-service kiosks for stamp purchases.

Kroger: You can find stamps at Kroger stores’ customer service counters or checkout lanes.

Publix: This southeastern chain sells stamps at their customer service desks.

Safeway: Look for stamps at Safeway’s customer service counters or ask a cashier.

How to Purchase Stamps at Grocery Stores

To buy stamps at a grocery store:

1. Head to the customer service desk or ask a cashier about stamp availability.
2. Specify the type and quantity of stamps you need.
3. Pay for the stamps along with your groceries or separately.

Remember, most grocery stores sell stamps in booklets rather than individual pieces.

Pharmacies and Drug Stores

Pharmacies offer another convenient option for buying stamps, especially if you’re already picking up prescriptions or other health-related items.

Major Pharmacy Chains Offering Stamps

CVS: Most CVS locations sell stamps at the front checkout counters.

Walgreens: You can purchase stamps at Walgreens stores’ main registers or photo counters.

Rite Aid: Look for stamps at Rite Aid’s checkout counters or customer service desks.

Buying Stamps at Your Local Pharmacy

To get stamps at a pharmacy:

1. Approach the main checkout counter or customer service area.
2. Ask if they have stamps available for purchase.
3. Specify the number of stamps you need.
4. Pay for your stamps along with any other items you’re buying.

Banks and ATMs

Many banks sell stamps to both account holders and non-customers. Some even offer stamp dispensing through their ATMs.

Banks That Sell Stamps

Bank of America: Most branches sell stamps at teller windows.

Wells Fargo: You can buy stamps from tellers or through some Wells Fargo ATMs.

US Bank: Many US Bank locations offer stamps for purchase.

Using ATMs to Purchase Stamps

To buy stamps from an ATM:

1. Insert your debit card and enter your PIN.
2. Look for a “Purchase Stamps” option in the menu.
3. Select the number of stamps you want.
4. The cost will be deducted from your account, and stamps will be dispensed.

Not all ATMs offer this service, so check with your bank first.

Convenience Stores

Convenience stores can be lifesavers when you need stamps outside regular business hours.

24/7 Options for Buying Stamps

7-Eleven: Many 7-Eleven stores sell stamps at the counter.

Circle K: Some Circle K locations offer stamps for purchase.

Convenience Store Stamp Availability

Keep in mind that not all convenience stores carry stamps. It’s best to call ahead and check availability, especially if you’re making a special trip.

Online Retailers

In today’s digital age, you can easily buy stamps without leaving your home.

Purchasing Stamps from E-commerce Giants

Amazon: Offers a variety of stamp options, often in bulk quantities.

eBay: You can find both new and collectible stamps on eBay.

USPS Online Store

The official USPS website allows you to order stamps directly:

1. Visit usps.com and navigate to the “Buy Stamps & Shop” section.
2. Choose from a wide selection of stamp designs.
3. Place your order and have stamps delivered to your doorstep.

Office Supply Stores

Office supply stores are excellent places to buy stamps, especially if you need other mailing supplies.

Stamps at Popular Office Supply Chains

Staples: Most Staples stores sell stamps at their checkout counters.

Office Depot/OfficeMax: You can find stamps at these stores’ customer service desks.

Buying Stamps with Other Office Essentials

When purchasing stamps at office supply stores:

1. Grab any other mailing supplies you might need (envelopes, packaging tape, etc.).
2. Head to the checkout or customer service area.
3. Ask for stamps and specify the quantity you want.
4. Pay for everything in one transaction.

Gas Stations

Some gas stations offer stamps, allowing you to take care of two errands at once.

Filling Up and Buying Stamps

Next time you’re getting gas, check if the station sells stamps. It could save you an extra stop.

Gas Station Chains That Sell Stamps

Chevron: Many Chevron stations sell stamps inside their convenience stores.

Shell: Some Shell locations offer stamps for purchase.

Bookstores and Campus Shops

College bookstores and some local bookshops sell stamps, catering to students and book lovers alike.

University Bookstores Selling Stamps

Many campus bookstores offer stamps as a convenience to students and faculty. Check with your local college or university bookstore.

Local Bookshops as Stamp Vendors

Independent bookstores sometimes sell stamps as an added service for their customers. It never hurts to ask at your favorite local bookshop.

Department Stores

Large department stores often sell stamps at their customer service counters.

Big-Box Retailers Offering Stamps

Target: Most Target stores sell stamps at their guest services counters.

Costco: You can buy stamps in bulk at Costco’s customer service desk.

Finding Stamps in Department Store Customer Service Areas

To buy stamps at a department store:

1. Locate the customer service or guest services area.
2. Ask if they sell stamps.
3. Specify how many stamps you need.
4. Pay for your stamps separately or with other purchases.

Libraries

Some public libraries offer stamp sales as a community service.

Public Libraries as Stamp Vendors

While not all libraries sell stamps, some do as a convenience to patrons. It’s worth checking with your local library.

Buying Stamps While Checking Out Books

If your library does sell stamps:

1. Ask at the circulation desk when checking out books.
2. Specify how many stamps you need.
3. Pay for the stamps (usually cash only).

Hotels and Resorts

When traveling, hotels can be unexpected sources for stamps.

Stamps for Travelers

Many hotels offer stamps for guests who need to mail postcards or letters during their stay.

Hotel Gift Shops and Front Desks Selling Stamps

To buy stamps at a hotel:

1. Check the hotel gift shop first.
2. If the gift shop doesn’t have stamps, ask at the front desk.
3. Purchase the stamps you need.

Tips for Buying Stamps Outside the Post Office

To make your stamp-buying experience smoother, keep these tips in mind:

Checking Availability Before You Go

Call ahead or check online to confirm that your chosen location sells stamps. This can save you time and frustration.

Bulk Buying vs. Individual Stamps

Many non-post office locations only sell stamps in booklets or rolls. If you only need one or two stamps, the post office might still be your best bet.

Consider buying in bulk if you mail items frequently. It can save you money and time in the long run.

Conclusion

Finding stamps doesn’t have to mean a trip to the post office. From grocery stores and pharmacies to banks and online retailers, there are plenty of convenient options for buying stamps. By exploring these alternatives, you can save time and make your mailing tasks more efficient. Remember to check availability and consider buying in bulk when it makes sense for your needs. With so many choices available, you’re never far from a place to buy stamps.