Global Major Cities Guide

China Post offers a variety of services to meet different needs, including:

Regular Mail (普通信件): For sending letters and postcards within China.
Registered Mail (挂号信): A more secure option for important documents, with tracking and proof of delivery.
Parcel Post (包裹邮寄): For sending packages within China.
Express Mail Service (EMS, 特快专递): A faster and more reliable service for urgent deliveries, available for both documents and parcels.

International Regular Mail: For sending letters and postcards abroad.
International Registered Mail: Secure and trackable option for sending important documents overseas.
International Parcel Post: For shipping packages internationally.
EMS International: A premium service for fast and reliable international shipping.

Postal Savings Bank (邮政储蓄银行): Many post offices in Suzhou also function as branches of the Postal Savings Bank, offering financial services.
Bill Payments: Some post offices allow you to pay utility bills or purchase mobile phone top-ups.
E-commerce Deliveries: Many post offices handle deliveries for online shopping platforms like Taobao and JD.com.

The cost of postal services in Suzhou depends on the type of service, weight, and destination. Below are approximate costs:

Regular Mail: Starting at ¥1.20 for a standard letter (up to 20g).
Registered Mail: Additional ¥3-5 on top of the regular mail cost.
Parcel Post: Starting at ¥10-15 for small packages (up to 1kg), with incremental increases based on weight and distance.
EMS: Starting at ¥20-30 for small parcels, with higher rates for heavier items or remote destinations.

Regular Mail: Starting at ¥5-10 for letters or postcards (up to 20g).
Registered Mail: Additional ¥15-20 on top of the regular mail cost.
Parcel Post: Starting at ¥80-100 for small packages (up to 1kg), depending on the destination country.
EMS International: Starting at ¥150-200 for small parcels, with higher rates for heavier items or expedited delivery.

Note: For exact pricing, visit a local post office or check the China Post website.

Prepare Your Item: Ensure your letter or package is properly packed. For parcels, use sturdy packaging and seal it securely.
Addressing: Write the recipient's address in Chinese characters for domestic mail. Include the postal code (邮政编码), which is a 6-digit number.
Visit a Post Office: Take your item to the nearest post office. For parcels, you may need to fill out a shipping form.
Weighing and Payment: The staff will weigh your item and calculate the cost. Pay the fee and keep the receipt.
Tracking (if applicable): If you use registered mail or EMS, you will receive a tracking number.

Prepare Your Item: Use appropriate packaging for international shipping. Ensure the contents comply with customs regulations.
Customs Declaration: Fill out a customs declaration form (available at the post office) for parcels.
Addressing: Write the recipient's address in English and include the destination country.
Visit a Post Office: Hand over your item, complete the necessary forms, and pay the fee.
Tracking: Keep the tracking number for monitoring your shipment.

Home Delivery: Most mail and small packages are delivered directly to your address. Ensure your address is written clearly and includes the correct postal code.
Pick-Up at Post Office: If you miss a delivery or the package is too large, you may receive a notification to pick it up at a designated post office. Bring your ID and the notification slip.
Parcel Lockers: In some areas, packages may be delivered to automated lockers. You will receive a text message with a code to retrieve your package.

Suzhou has numerous post offices spread across the city. Here are a few major locations:

Suzhou Main Post Office (苏州邮政总局):
- Address: No. 1 Renmin Road, Gusu District (姑苏区人民路1号)
- Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
Industrial Park Post Office (苏州工业园区邮局):
- Address: No. 108 Xinghu Street, Suzhou Industrial Park (苏州工业园区星湖街108号)
- Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Monday to Saturday)
New District Post Office (苏州新区邮局):
- Address: No. 388 Changjiang Road, Suzhou New District (苏州新区长江路388号)
- Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Wuzhong District Post Office (吴中区邮局):
- Address: No. 18 Wuzhong Avenue, Wuzhong District (吴中区吴中大道18号)
- Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Monday to Saturday)

Tip: Use Baidu Maps or WeChat to search for the nearest post office by typing "邮局" (post office).

Most post offices in Suzhou operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.
Some larger branches (e.g., Suzhou Main Post Office) may also open on Sundays or have extended hours.
EMS counters may have slightly different hours, so check in advance if you need this service.

Language Barrier: Most postal staff speak limited English. It’s helpful to have the address written in Chinese and use translation apps like Pleco or Google Translate.
Peak Hours: Avoid visiting post offices during lunch hours (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM) or just before closing, as they can be busy.
Packaging Supplies: Post offices sell envelopes, boxes, and packing materials, but you can save money by bringing your own.
Customs Restrictions: For international shipping, avoid sending prohibited items like liquids, batteries, or perishable goods. Check the destination country’s customs regulations.
Private Couriers: For faster or more convenient service, consider using private couriers like SF Express (顺丰速运), which often offer door-to-door pick-up and delivery.

By following this guide, you should be able to navigate Suzhou’s postal services with ease. Let me know if you need further assistance!