# Tasks & work activities — mail clerk

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 43-9051.00 (Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Seal or open envelopes, by hand or by using machines.
- **[Core]** Affix postage to packages or letters by hand, or stamp materials, using postage meters.
- **[Core]** Verify that items are addressed correctly, marked with the proper postage, and in suitable condition for processing.
- **[Core]** Sort and route incoming mail, and collect outgoing mail, using carts as necessary.
- **[Core]** Determine manner in which mail is to be sent, and prepare it for delivery to mailing facilities.
- **[Core]** Wrap packages or bundles by hand, or by using tying machines.
- **[Core]** Remove containers of sorted mail or parcels and transfer them to designated areas according to established procedures.
- **[Core]** Accept and check containers of mail or parcels from large volume mailers, couriers, and contractors.
- **[Supplemental]** Place incoming or outgoing letters or packages into sacks or bins based on destination or type, and place identifying tags on sacks or bins.
- **[Supplemental]** Clear jams in sortation equipment.
- **[Supplemental]** Weigh packages or letters to determine postage needed, using weighing scales and rate charts.
- **[Supplemental]** Lift and unload containers of mail or parcels onto equipment for transportation to sortation stations.
- **[Supplemental]** Fold letters or circulars and insert them in envelopes.
- **[Supplemental]** Remove from machines printed materials, such as labeled articles, postmarked envelopes or tape, and folded sheets.
- **[Supplemental]** Add ink, fill paste reservoirs, and change machine ribbons when necessary.
- **[Supplemental]** Start machines that automatically feed plates, stencils, or tapes through mechanisms, and observe machine operations to detect any malfunctions.
- **[Supplemental]** Read production orders to determine types and sizes of items scheduled for printing and mailing.
- **[Supplemental]** Mail merchandise samples or promotional literature in response to requests.
- **[Supplemental]** Inspect mail machine output for defects and determine how to eliminate causes of any defects.
- **[Supplemental]** Contact delivery or courier services to arrange delivery of letters and parcels.
- **[Supplemental]** Stamp dates and times of receipt of incoming mail.
- **[Supplemental]** Operate computer-controlled keyboards or voice recognition equipment to direct items according to established routing schemes.
- **[Supplemental]** Adjust guides, rollers, loose card inserters, weighing machines, and tying arms, using rules and hand tools.
- **[Supplemental]** Release packages or letters to customers upon presentation of written notices or other identification.
- **[Supplemental]** Answer inquiries regarding shipping or mailing policies.
- **[Supplemental]** Sell mail products, and accept payment for products and mailing charges.

## Detailed work activities

- Adjust office equipment to ensure proper operation.
- Analyze shipping information to make routing decisions.
- Attach identification information to products, items or containers.
- Collect deposits, payments or fees.
- Coordinate shipping activities with external parties.
- Explain regulations, policies, or procedures.
- Inspect items for damage or defects.
- Maintain office equipment in proper operating condition.
- Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
- Obtain written authorization to perform activities.
- Operate computers or computerized equipment.
- Package objects for shipping.
- Prepare outgoing mail.
- Read work orders to determine material or setup requirements.
- Receive shipments.
- Route mail to correct destinations.
- Sell products or services.
- Send information, materials or documentation.
- Sort mail.
- Unload materials or equipment.
- Verify shipping documentation.
- Weigh parcels to determine shipping costs.