What does a Mail Carrier do?
A mail carrier is responsible for sorting and preparing mail for deliveries and delivering letters and parcels to residents and business owners throughout a designated route, either by foot or by vehicle. If you have been authorized to use a company vehicle, you are required to operate the vehicle in accordance with motor vehicle regulations and company policies. As a mail carrier, you are also responsible for collecting mailing shipments and collecting signatures for delivery confirmation slips. Mail carriers also sell stamps and collect cash on delivery for shipments.
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Working as a Mail Carrier
The duties and responsibilities of a mail carrier are diverse every day. You might see the mail carrier in your residential neighborhood or at the local post office. The tasks of a mail carrier include:
- Sorting and preparing mail at the post office
- Delivering and collecting mail to residents and local businesses along a designated route
- Answering customer questions regarding the postal service and regulations
- Accepting money for postage and cash-on-delivery orders
- Selling stamps for outgoing mail
How much does a Mail Carrier make in the United States?
Average base salary
The average salary for a mail carrier is $19.41 per hour in the United States and $6,669 overtime per year.2.6k salaries reported, updated at November 25, 2023
Where can a Mail Carrier earn more?
Compare salaries for Mail Carriers in different locations
How much do similar professions get paid in United States?
Postal Clerk
Job openingsAverage $17.67 per hour
Rural Carrier Associate
Job openingsAverage $19.76 per hour
Mail Handler
Job openingsAverage $19.38 per hour
Distribution Associate
Job openingsAverage $17.95 per hour
Delivery Driver
Job openingsAverage $18.70 per hour
Maintenance Mechanic
Job openingsAverage $26.48 per hour
Common questions about for a Mail Carrier
How many hours a day does a mail carrier work?
While specific hours may vary from location to location, a mail carrier can expect to work at least six days per week during regular business hours.
Is the 473 Postal Exam difficult?
To pass the exam, you must score more than 70%. However, it is reported that more than 80% of candidates fail the exam on the first try.
When can I retake the 473 Postal Exam?
If you failed the exam, you will be eligible to retake the exam in 120 days.
