Everyone has experience with snail mail. But, can you describe what certified or registered mail is? If you’re not sure, you’re not alone.

Many people can’t answer the question, “what is the difference between certified and registered mail?” Keep reading to find the answer to this question. This can impact how you decide to send confidential documents.

What Is the Difference Between Certified and Registered Mail?

Why is it important to know the difference in sending mail certified or registered? Special items may include legal court papers or business documents that need safe delivery. If you want to know that your mailed item arrives, you need to choose one of these options.

It’s also important to understand the differences when deciding which choice is best for you.

Certified Mail

So, what is certified mail? This is a domestic mail service that ensures extra security for mail delivery. Each item receives a unique tracking number.

The postal worker scans the item when it’s received at the post office. Further scanning and tracking take place as it’s sorted and processed. This continues until it’s delivered.

When you use the certified mail service, you’re given a mailing receipt. This provides legal proof that you sent the package.

Upon delivery, the recipient must sign a form to receive the item. This is the legal proof of delivery completion. This signature remains on file for 2 years.

If the item isn’t received or picked up from the post office, it’s returned to the sender.

Certified mail options include First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service, or Priority Mail. These choices offer different speeds of delivery.

Registered Mail

If you wish to have extra protection for valuable or important mail, you may want to choose registered mail. The tracking for these items begins when the sender gives it to the post office. This continues until the item has a verified delivery.

A designated individual must sign for a piece of registered mail each time it changes hands during the delivery process. Intermediary offices must keep control logs.

The post office takes extra measures to protect registered mail. This includes special packaging for each item. The sealing method ensures security and protection.

If the item must wait for a time during transit, it’s placed in a locked safe, room, or cage. These items are always kept separate from other mail.

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