Us postal service cancel mail
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has a process for canceling mail, which is also known as "canceling" or "postmarking." Here's an overview of how it works:
Why cancel mail?
Canceling mail is an important process that helps the USPS keep track of mail and prevent fraud. When a piece of mail is canceled, it means that it has been processed and is no longer considered "unpaid" or "unaccounted for." Canceling mail also helps to prevent mail from being reused or re-sent, which can cause confusion and delays.
How does the USPS cancel mail?
The USPS uses a machine called a "canceling machine" or "postmarking machine" to cancel mail. The machine applies a canceling mark, which is a distinctive stamp or impression that indicates the mail has been processed. The canceling mark typically includes the date, time, and location where the mail was processed.
Here's a step-by-step overview of the canceling process:
- Sorting: Mail is sorted and organized by zip code, destination, and other factors.
- Canceling: The sorted mail is then fed into the canceling machine, which applies the canceling mark to each piece of mail.
- Postmarking: The canceling machine also applies a postmark, which is a date and time stamp that indicates when the mail was processed.
- Verification: The canceled mail is then verified to ensure that it has been properly processed and that the canceling mark is legible.
Types of canceling marks
The USPS uses different types of canceling marks depending on the type of mail and the location where it is processed. Some common types of canceling marks include:
- Postmark: A date and time stamp that indicates when the mail was processed.
- Canceling mark: A distinctive stamp or impression that indicates the mail has been processed.
- Bar code: A machine-readable code that contains information about the mail, such as the destination and postage.
- Hand cancel: A canceling mark applied by hand, often used for special occasions or events.
Special canceling marks
The USPS also offers special canceling marks for certain occasions, such as:
- First Class Mail: A special canceling mark is used for First Class Mail, which is marked with a distinctive "F" or "FC" symbol.
- Priority Mail: A special canceling mark is used for Priority Mail, which is marked with a distinctive "PM" symbol.
- Special events: The USPS may offer special canceling marks for special events, such as holidays, anniversaries, or commemorative occasions.