Registered mail

Registered mail is a fee based delivery method offered by the Postal Service to protect against loss or damage of valuable items sent through the mail. Items sent with registered mail are placed under tight security from the point of mailing to the point of delivery. You can verify the date and time of delivery and the delivery attempts online.

Registered mail provides the sender with a mailing receipt and online access to the delivery status. Registered mail service is available for items paid at first-class mail rates. Registered mail service may be combined with Collect on Delivery (COD), Delivery Confirmation, Restricted Delivery, Return Receipt or Signature Confirmation. Some governmental regulations require important notices to be sent by registered mail.

The main benefit of shipping items by registered mail is that valuable items can be sentthrough the mail with peace of mind that comes with an insurance policy. Registered mail can be sent via either first-class mail or priority mail. Delivery time averages two to three days. If the shipment is needed urgently, it can be sent via "express mail" and add either insurance or a return receipt.

When items are sent via registered mail, the post office will issue a small receipt with a tracking number. On the article itself, the post office will attach a similar postage receipt that is stamped, dated and shows the same tracking number. The stamped receipt will state that it isregistered.