Is all mail scanned

In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) scans a significant portion of the mail it processes, but not all of it. Here's a breakdown:

  1. First-Class Mail: The USPS scans most First-Class Mail, which includes letters, postcards, and packages weighing up to 13 ounces. This is done to track and verify delivery.
  2. Priority Mail: Priority Mail, which includes packages weighing up to 70 pounds, is also scanned to track and verify delivery.
  3. Parcel Select: Parcel Select is a service for larger packages (over 13 ounces) that are sent via ground transportation. While not all Parcel Select packages are scanned, many are, especially those with tracking numbers.
  4. Periodicals: Periodicals, such as newspapers and magazines, are not typically scanned, as they are not tracked individually.
  5. Bulk Mail: Bulk mail, such as advertising mail and political mail, may not be scanned, as it is often sent in large quantities and not tracked individually.
  6. International Mail: International mail, including letters and packages sent to other countries, may not be scanned, as the USPS relies on the destination country's postal service to track and deliver the mail.

The USPS uses various methods to scan mail, including:

  1. Optical Character Recognition (OCR): OCR technology reads the addresses on mailpieces and converts them into digital data, which is then used to track and verify delivery.
  2. Barcode Scanning: The USPS uses barcode scanners to read the tracking numbers and other information on mailpieces.
  3. Automated Package Processing (APP): APP machines scan and process packages, including weighing, sorting, and tracking.

While not all mail is scanned, the USPS is continually working to improve its tracking and verification capabilities. In recent years, the USPS has implemented various initiatives to increase the use of scanning technology, including the use of mobile scanners and the expansion of its tracking capabilities.