Mail service in the GB is possibly the best in the world. 99% of standard mail arrives next day.

Overseas postcards go 3rd class mail unless you specify 1st class and apply the airmail sticker. That means they go by boat and mule Most visitors to the UK are 'cheap'

If I post a bubble wrap envelope to New York and someone in CA sends at the same time, chances are mine will arrive first. Thats for standard postal service.

Your regular mail is $3.44 for 2.5LBS. I dont consider that expensive. I spend around $300 a week on shipping.