USPS Services Comparing Online vs in-Person

In a bid to keep up with the times and improve its service delivery, the USPS has made some of its services available to internet users. Despite these changes, there are still many services that can only be accessed by visiting the post office in person. There are yet other services which you have a choice of either doing online or in person. Without further ado, let’s look at some of the services of the USPS, and whether they can be done in person, online or both.

Sending and receiving Mail

This is one of the services that cannot be done online. If you want to send mail or a package, you can opt to leave in in your mailbox, drop it into a blue collection box, schedule a pickup or take it to the Post Office. If your package weighs more than 13 ounces, it must be taken to a post office, even if you have already affixed postage stamps. The only thing you can do online while sending mail is to schedule a pickup through the USPS website. Some types of mail such as certified mail, insured mail, registered mail and others require you to sign for mail during delivery. This can only be done in person.

Mail Tracking

This service, on the other hand, can only be done online. It is an extra service that you can request for and pay an extra fee to access. To use this service, you can sign up for it on the USPS website or sign up with other affiliate organizations that are approved partners of USPS. You can be assigned a tracking number for every package you send, or you can be assigned with one tracking number for all your packages. This service allows you to know where your mail is at all times for better planning and accountability.

Changing Address and other Post Office Details

This is one of the services that you can do both online and in person. It is however very fast and convenient to do it online. Through the USPS website, you can change your address and other details and the changes will be confirmed immediately. To prevent fraud and confirm your identity, you will be charged a $1 fee. If you choose to do it in person, request a Mover’s Guide packet at your local post office. Fill out the change of address form and leave it in the office. The change will be confirmed by letter in your new address.

Renting a P.O. Box

This also can be done online or in person. Just like changing your address, it is also more convenient when you do it online. Using the USPS website, you can search for a new P.O. Box or renew a PO Box with convenience and ease. All the necessary payments will also be done online and you can link the PO Box with your USPS account for easier management. The online platform also allows you to choose the size of the box that will suit your needs.

Paying for Postage

This can also be done online and in person. If you want the online option, ensure that you have a USPS account. With a computer and a standard printer, you will be able to print a wide variety of shipping labels right from home or the office. The payment will also be made online, using different platforms.