Chapter 12 Processing Mail and Correspondence

Study Notes

Mail Services Overview

United States Postal Service (USPS): The primary service for both domestic and international mail delivery.
Domestic Mail: Refers to all mail sent within the U.S. and its territories.

ZIP Code System

Zone Improvement Plan (ZIP + 4): A system utilizing five or nine-digit numerical codes which enhance mail sorting and delivery accuracy.

Technology in Mail Processing

Optical Character Recognition (OCR): Technology that reads printed or typed text and converts it into digital form for data processing.
Bar Code Sorter (BCS): A system that utilizes a printed code on first-class mail to expedite sorting processes.

Essential Mail Supplies and Equipment

Supplies for Small Volume Mail Operations: Necessary items include letter openers, postal scales, postage machines, postage meters, staplers, rubber stamps, labels, adhesive tape, stickers, and postage stamps. Free supplies may be available at local post offices for Priority and Express Mail.
Postal Scale: An instrument used to measure mail weight, available in various models (spring, beam, pendulum, electronic).

Postage Solutions

Postage Meter: Device that prints prepaid postage directly on mail items, facilitating faster mail handling without cancelation at post offices. Metered mail can simplify bulk mail processing.
Stamps Ordering Methods: Stamps can be ordered through mail, phone, or online platforms, providing convenient options for obtaining postage.

Specific Postage Ordering Options

Stamps by Mail: Requires filling out Form 3227-A and includes a self-addressed envelope for returning the ordered stamps, typically received within 5 business days.
Forever Stamp: Available in booklets or rolls, this stamp maintains the same value as a first-class stamp indefinitely, usable for 1-ounce letters.
Stamps by Telephone: Allows ordering by calling a toll-free number, with delivery lasting 5 business days. Charges can be placed on office credit cards, though a service fee may apply.

Online Postage Features

Online Postage: Can be purchased and printed via the USPS Online Store or approved online services, enabling tracking and security features through a two-dimensional barcode.

Categories of Mail

Mail Classifications: Different mail categories are established based on size, contents, weight, frequency, destination, and delivery speed.
How Mail is Classified: Classification considers several criteria including dimensions, contents, and urgency to determine pricing and processing methods.

Description

Test your understanding of key concepts related to processing mail and correspondence in this quiz. It includes definitions for terms such as USPS, domestic mail, and ZIP codes. Perfect for revising postal services terminology.