Registered mail is a mail service offered by postal services in many countries that provides the sender with proof of mailing via a mailing receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that an article was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made. It is a secure transport method for high-value letters and packages that establishes a chain of custody that tracks the shipment throughout the entire transit process, from the moment it is dropped off at the post office until the moment it is delivered. Here are some key features of registered mail:
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Proof of Mailing: Registered mail provides the sender with proof of mailing via a mailing receipt.
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Electronic Verification: Upon request, registered mail provides electronic verification that an article was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made.
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Extra Protection: Registered mail provides extra protection for high-value letters and packages.
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Chain of Custody: The USPS establishes a chain of custody that tracks and secures the shipment throughout the entire transit process.
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Insurance: In the unlikely event of loss, theft, or damage, registered mail shipments can be insured for up to $25,000.
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Tight Security: Due to the tight security provided for registered mail, it may take 10-14 days for the shipment to arrive at its destination.
Registered mail is different from certified mail, which provides a mailing receipt, a trackable number, and proof of receipt, and is often used for legal documents and other mail items requiring provable delivery by a specific date. Certified mail is helpful when the sender wants to have proof not only that the item was mailed, but also that it was actually delivered and when it was delivered.
In summary, registered mail is a secure mail service that provides the sender with proof of mailing and electronic verification of delivery or delivery attempt. It is used for high-value letters and packages and establishes a chain of custody that tracks and secures the shipment throughout the entire transit process.
