What is mail handling
Mail handling refers to the process of receiving, sorting, and distributing mail and packages to their intended recipients. This process involves a series of steps, including:
- Receiving: Mail and packages are received at a mail handling facility, such as a post office, mail center, or delivery hub.
- Sorting: Mail is sorted according to its destination, using various methods such as zip codes, street addresses, and barcodes.
- Processing: Mail is processed to prepare it for delivery, which may include activities such as:
- Scanning and tracking packages
- Applying postage and labels
- Removing packaging materials
- Weighing and measuring packages
- Routing: Mail is routed to its next destination, which may be another mail handling facility, a delivery truck, or a delivery carrier.
- Delivery: Mail and packages are delivered to their intended recipients, either by mail carriers, delivery drivers, or other delivery personnel.
Mail handling involves various techniques and technologies to ensure efficient and accurate processing of mail and packages. Some common methods used in mail handling include:
- Automated Package Processing (APP): Machines sort and process packages using barcodes and other technologies.
- Optical Character Recognition (OCR): Machines read and recognize text and barcodes on mail pieces.
- Barcode Scanning: Machines scan barcodes on mail pieces to track and sort them.
- Manual Sorting: Mail handlers sort mail by hand, using various methods such as zip codes, street addresses, and barcodes.
- Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb): Unique barcodes that track mail pieces and provide real-time tracking information.
Mail handling is an essential part of the postal and delivery industry, as it enables the efficient and reliable delivery of mail and packages to millions of people around the world.