What is considered postmarked mail
In the United States, "postmarked" refers to the date and time that a mailpiece is processed and stamped with a postmark by the United States Postal Service (USPS). This is typically done at a post office or a mail processing facility.
A postmark is a cancellation mark that is applied to the mailpiece by the USPS to indicate the date and time it was processed. The postmark is usually in the form of a rubber stamp or a digital printout that is applied to the mailpiece.
The postmark serves several purposes:
- It indicates the date and time the mailpiece was processed, which is important for tracking and delivery purposes.
- It serves as a cancellation mark, indicating that the mailpiece has been processed and is no longer eligible for further postage or handling.
- It provides evidence of the mailpiece's origin and the date it was mailed.
To be considered "postmarked," a mailpiece must meet the following criteria:
- It must be processed and stamped with a postmark by the USPS.
- The postmark must be applied to the mailpiece in a way that is visible and legible.
- The postmark must include the date and time the mailpiece was processed.
Examples of postmarked mail include:
- Letters and cards that are sent through the mail and have a postmark on the envelope or package.
- Packages and parcels that are shipped through the mail and have a postmark on the shipping label.
- Mailpieces that are processed and sent through the mail, such as bills, statements, and advertisements.
It's worth noting that not all mail is postmarked. For example, mail that is sent through private carriers, such as FedEx or UPS, may not have a postmark. Additionally, some types of mail, such as electronic mail or email, do not require a postmark.