Sending & Receiving Mail

When you need to send a letter or a parcel, you go to the post office and speak to the clerk. First, you must write the destination address clearly on the front of the envelope. Don't forget to include the postal code to help route the mail correctly, and your own return address in the top left corner.

To pay for postage, you buy a stamp. If you are sending a heavy box, the clerk will place it on a scale to weigh it. If the item inside is breakable, you should mark the outside as fragile. For international shipments, you must also complete a customs declaration form.

If you are in a hurry, you can choose priority mail for faster delivery. You will often get a tracking number so you can see exactly where your package is online. Finally, a courier or mail carrier will drop the item safely in the recipient's mailbox.