What does mail carrier do
A mail carrier, also known as a postal carrier or letter carrier, is an employee of a postal service who is responsible for delivering mail and packages to customers. Their primary duties include:
- Sorting and preparing mail: Mail carriers sort and prepare mail and packages for delivery, ensuring that each item is properly addressed and packaged.
- Delivering mail: They deliver mail and packages to customers' homes, businesses, and post office boxes, using a designated route and schedule.
- Collecting mail: Mail carriers collect mail from customers' mailboxes and post office boxes, and bring it back to the post office for processing.
- Providing customer service: They interact with customers, answering questions, resolving issues, and providing information about postal services and products.
- Maintaining route: Mail carriers maintain their delivery route, ensuring that all customers receive their mail and packages on time and in good condition.
- Tracking and reporting: They track and report any issues or problems with mail delivery, such as undeliverable mail or missing packages.
- Handling special deliveries: Mail carriers may handle special deliveries, such as certified mail, registered mail, and packages that require a signature upon delivery.
- Working in all weather conditions: Mail carriers often work in all types of weather, including extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and heat.
- Lifting and carrying: They may need to lift and carry heavy mailbags, packages, and other items as part of their daily duties.
- Following safety protocols: Mail carriers must follow safety protocols to ensure their own safety and the safety of others, such as wearing personal protective equipment and following traffic safety guidelines.
Mail carriers typically work a standard 8-hour day, with varying schedules depending on the postal service and the specific route they are assigned to. They may also work overtime during peak periods, such as holidays or special events.