How does return to sender mail work

The infamous "Return to Sender" mail!

"Return to Sender" is a mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows senders to return undeliverable mail to their original sender. Here's how it works:

How it starts:

  1. A sender sends a piece of mail (e.g., a letter, package, or postcard) to a recipient.
  2. The recipient is not found at the address provided, or the mail is undeliverable for some reason (e.g., the address is invalid, the recipient has moved, or the mail is damaged).

The USPS's role:

  1. The USPS attempts to deliver the mail to the recipient, but it is returned to the post office as undeliverable.
  2. The post office marks the mail as "Return to Sender" and sends it back to the sender's address, which is usually printed on the envelope or package.

The return process:

  1. The USPS returns the undeliverable mail to the sender's address, usually with a notation indicating that the mail was undeliverable.
  2. The sender receives the returned mail and can then update their records to reflect the correct address or take other necessary actions.

Types of returns:

  1. Return to Sender (RTS): The most common type, where the USPS returns the mail to the sender's address.
  2. Return to Sender with a forwarding address: In some cases, the USPS may have a forwarding address for the recipient, which is included on the returned mail.
  3. Return to Sender with a reason code: The USPS may also include a reason code on the returned mail, indicating why the mail was undeliverable (e.g., "Address Unknown" or "Moved, Left No Forwarding Address").

Tips and best practices:

  1. Always use accurate and up-to-date addresses to avoid returns.
  2. Verify addresses before sending mail to ensure they are correct.
  3. Use a return address on your mail to ensure that undeliverable mail can be returned to you.
  4. Consider using a mail forwarding service if you're sending mail to a recipient who may be moving frequently.

By understanding how "Return to Sender" mail works, you can reduce the likelihood of undeliverable mail and ensure that your important communications reach their intended recipients.