4 Tips for Mail Processing and Handling at the USPS
Date: October 12th, 2018
Processing mail is an important part of the workflow at a postal service company. In a US postal service job, around 70 percent of the time is spent processing mail. Mail clerks at the USPS receive mail and then sort them for distribution.
The task of mail processing is time-intensive and laborious. Mail processers do not just deal with mails, but also postcards and parcels. They handle standard and express mails. In this post, you will learn about some tips for properly processing mails and routing them to the right addresses for delivery.
1. Mail Outboxes
To avoid cluttering the office space, it's important that you set up mail outboxes in every office. You should consider a 'tree' system in order to organize and collect all the outgoing mails. The mails should be put in different outboxes depending on the type of mail such as Express mail or standard mail. The system should be such that it facilitates quick and easy dispatch of different types of mails.
2. Proper Labelling
Another important tip for processing mails at the USPS is to label all the outgoing items. You should identify the sender as well as the recipient of the mail. It's important to properly prepare the packages and envelops and then label them accordingly.
Make use of an automated machine to label packages and parcels. This will cut down time as compared to manually writing the labels on mails. Once you have labeled the packages, you should order them according to the location.
For routine mails, you should use plastic-window envelopes. Type the information of the recipient using a computer. Again, this saves time as compared to manually entering the information. Also, it will ensure that the recipient will be able to read the address. Trying to decipher cursive writing on the envelope can create difficulties for the recipient.
3. Know How to Handle Unusual Parcels
The USPS has set some guidelines that can help in handling unusual parcels. The guidelines allow employees to identify any dangerous material and take appropriate and timely action. Employees should be suspicious of any suspicious package.
In case you receive an unusual mail, you should first inspect the address. In case the address is not recognizable, you should immediately inform the office security. Avoid opening the mailbox, until you are completely satisfied that the mail is not a threat.
4. Create a Checklist for Mails
Consider creating a checklist regarding things to do when processing mail. Have a person collect all the sorted mails and deliver them to the designated area for delivery. Also, you should provide postage meters to facilitate fixing of stamps.
The above tips can help ensure that the mail reaches the right destination. The fact is that mail processing and sorting job at the USPS is highly rewarding. The federal job does not involve a lot of effort. You need to be good with time and numbers to excel in the field.