How are incoming mail handled

The process of handling incoming mail, also known as mail processing, involves several steps:

1. Sorting: Mail is sorted by zip code, city, or region to ensure it reaches the correct destination.
2. Barcoding: Mail is scanned and barcoded with a unique identifier, such as a barcode or a tracking number, to facilitate tracking and sorting.
3. Sorting machines: Mail is fed into automated sorting machines, which use optical character recognition (OCR) and barcode readers to sort the mail into different bins based on the zip code, city, or region.
4. Manual sorting: Mail that cannot be sorted by machine is sorted manually by postal workers.
5. Destination sorting: Mail is sorted by destination, including zip code, city, or region, to ensure it reaches the correct post office or delivery point.
6. Delivery point sequencing: Mail is sorted in the order it will be delivered to the recipient's address, to ensure efficient delivery.
7. Delivery: Mail is delivered to the recipient's mailbox or post office box.

Here are some additional details on how mail is handled:

• First-Class Mail: First-Class Mail is the most common type of mail and is typically sorted and delivered within 1-3 business days.
• Priority Mail: Priority Mail is a faster service that is typically sorted and delivered within 1-2 business days.
• International Mail: International mail is sorted and processed separately from domestic mail and may take longer to arrive at its destination.
• Specialty Mail: Specialty mail, such as certified mail, registered mail, and return receipt mail, requires additional processing and handling.
• Mail processing centers: Mail is processed at mail processing centers, which are large facilities that sort and process large volumes of mail.
• Post offices: Mail is also processed at post offices, which are smaller facilities that sort and process mail for local delivery.

Overall, the process of handling incoming mail involves a combination of automated and manual processes to ensure that mail is sorted and delivered efficiently and accurately.