Top 10 Mail Handler Certifications

Certifications are important for a mail handler in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual is knowledgeable and qualified to perform the duties of a mail handler. Certified mail handlers have a higher level of expertise than non-certified employees, which can make them more attractive to potential employers. Certification shows employers that an individual has taken the time and effort to gain the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be successful in their role. Additionally, certifications provide proof of competency, which can help individuals stand out from other applicants who may not have the same level of experience or qualifications.

The article reviews the top certifications for Mail Handlers and explains how they can contribute to a mail handler's career growth and advancement.

What are Mail Handler Certifications?

Mail Handler Certification is a training program developed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to provide employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently and effectively sort, process, and deliver mail. The certification includes training in handling various types of mail, including letters, packages, flat-rate boxes, magazines, newspapers, and other bulk mail. It also covers topics such as customer service etiquette and proper package labeling.

By obtaining Mail Handler Certification, USPS employees can ensure that they have the knowledge and expertise necessary to handle mail safely and accurately. The certification also helps USPS employees become more efficient in their tasks so that they can deliver mail on time. Additionally, having this certification can be beneficial for career advancement within the USPS as it shows employers that an employee has obtained additional training beyond what was initially required.

Pro Tip: When applying for mail handler certification, make sure to double-check all requirements and deadlines, as they may vary depending on the state or region in which you are applying. Additionally, be sure to research the job duties associated with being a mail handler to ensure that you are prepared for the role.

Related: What does a Mail Handler do?

Top 10 Mail Handler Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Mail Handlers today.

1. Certified Mail Handler (CMH)

Certified Mail Handler (CMH) is a service provided by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is used to send important documents or packages that require a signature upon delivery. The CMH service provides tracking information, proof of delivery, and insurance up to $50.00 for the item being sent.

The CMH service typically takes 3-5 business days for delivery within the United States. International delivery times may vary depending on the destination country.

To get Certified Mail Handler service, you must purchase it from your local post office or online at USPS.com. The cost of CMH varies depending on the weight and size of the package being sent, as well as any additional services such as insurance or priority mail options.

2. Certified Professional Mail Manager (CPMM)

Certified Professional Mail Manager (CPMM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Postal Forum (NPF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to manage mail operations. The CPMM certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to excellence in mail management.

The CPMM certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as postal regulations, rate structures, mail processing systems, customer service, and marketing. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to manage mail operations in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire CPMM certification process. Candidates must first pass the written exam before they can take the practical assessment. After completing both parts of the certification process, candidates will receive their CPMM certificate from NPF.

The cost of obtaining the CPMM certification varies depending on whether you are taking the online or in-person version of the exam and assessment. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 for both parts of the certification process.

3. Certified Mail Operations Professional (CMOP)

Certified Mail Operations Professional (CMOP) is a professional certification program for individuals who work in the mailroom, post office, or any other related field. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals who have the knowledge and skills required to perform their job duties effectively.

The CMOP certification program consists of three exams: Mail Processing, Postal Operations and Postal Management. Each exam requires a passing score of 80% or higher. The exams are administered by the National Association of Certified Mail Operations Professionals (NACMOP).

The cost of the CMOP certification program varies depending on which exams you take and how many times you take them. Generally, it costs around $400-$500 per exam to become certified.

It typically takes up to six months to complete the entire CMOP program and receive your certification. During that time, you will need to study for and pass all three exams in order to become certified. After passing all three exams, you will receive your official CMOP certificate from NACMOP.

Overall, becoming a Certified Mail Operations Professional is an excellent way for individuals working in the mailroom or post office industry to demonstrate their qualifications and expertise in their field. It also provides employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals who can provide quality service.

4. Certified Postal Supervisor (CPS)

Certified Postal Supervisor (CPS) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to recognize and reward supervisors who demonstrate excellence in their roles as postal supervisors. The CPS certification program is open to all USPS employees who are currently in supervisory positions or have been in supervisory positions within the past five years.

The certification process takes approximately six months to complete, depending on how quickly you can submit the required paperwork and take the necessary exams. To get certified, you must first submit an application packet that includes your resume, a letter of recommendation from your supervisor, and proof of completion of a USPS-approved supervisor training course. Once your application has been approved, you will be asked to take two written exams: one on postal regulations and procedures and one on management principles. After successfully passing both tests, you will receive your Certified Postal Supervisor certificate.

The cost for the CPS certification program varies depending on the coursework you take and whether or not you need to purchase any additional materials. Most courses cost between $200-$500, while additional materials may cost up to $100. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the written exams.

5. Certified Postal Inspector (CPI)

A Certified Postal Inspector (CPI) is a professional certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The certification is designed to provide postal inspectors with additional training and knowledge in the areas of mail security, mail fraud prevention, and mail theft investigation.

The program consists of four parts: an online course, a written exam, an oral exam, and a practical exercise. The online course covers topics such as mail security, mail fraud prevention, and mail theft investigation. It takes approximately 8 weeks to complete the online course.

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions about the topics covered in the online course. It is administered at various USPS offices throughout the country. The oral exam is conducted by a panel of USPS officials and includes questions about the topics covered in the online course.

The practical exercise involves completing a simulated crime scene investigation using USPS equipment and procedures. This exercise must be completed within two hours.

The cost for taking the CPI program is $1,000 per person plus any applicable taxes or fees.

6. Certified Automated Mail Equipment Technician (CAMET)

Certified Automated Mail Equipment Technician (CAMET) is a certification program offered by the National Postal Museum (NPM). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills to install, maintain, and repair automated mail equipment. This certification is beneficial for those who wish to enter or advance in the field of automated mail equipment maintenance.

To become certified, applicants must complete an online application, submit a copy of their resume and transcripts, pass a written exam, and pay an application fee. The written exam covers topics such as electrical safety practices, installation procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and preventative maintenance. Once all requirements have been met and approved by the NPM, applicants will receive their CAMET certification.

The cost of the CAMET certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level. For those with no prior experience in automated mail equipment maintenance, the cost is $495 USD. For those with some experience in this field, the cost is $395 USD.

In total, it takes approximately 3-4 weeks to complete the entire process from start to finish.

7. Certified Mail System Administrator (CMSA)

Certified Mail System Administrator (CMSA) is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It allows businesses, organizations and individuals to securely send important documents and packages with proof of delivery. The CMSA service is available for both domestic and international mailings.

The CMSA service requires that the sender purchase a special postage stamp, which includes a unique tracking number. This tracking number is used to track the package's progress through the USPS system, including when it was delivered to its destination. When the package arrives at its destination, a signature from the recipient is required in order to confirm delivery. The sender can then use this information to verify that their package was delivered successfully.

The CMSA service typically takes 2-3 business days for domestic mailings and up to 10 business days for international mailings.

To get Certified Mail System Administrator (CMSA) services, you must first purchase the special postage stamps from your local post office or online from USPS.com. The cost of these stamps varies based on weight and size of your package, as well as whether it is being sent domestically or internationally. Generally speaking, domestic packages cost around $5-$7 per piece while international packages cost around $10-$15 per piece.

8. Certified Postal Clerk (CPC)

Certified Postal Clerk (CPC) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The program is designed to give postal clerks the knowledge and skills they need to provide excellent customer service and ensure efficient mail delivery. The CPC certification requires successful completion of an online course, which usually takes about 8 hours. Once completed, the USPS will issue a certificate that must be renewed every three years.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the CPC exam through the USPS website. After registering, applicants can access study materials and take practice exams to prepare for the official exam. When ready, applicants must take and pass the online exam with a score of at least 70%. Upon passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from the USPS.

The cost of taking the Certified Postal Clerk (CPC) exam is $150 USD. This fee covers all study materials and practice exams as well as taking and passing the official exam.

9. Certified Mail Security Officer (CMSO)

Certified Mail Security Officer (CMSO) is a service provided by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to provide an extra layer of security for mail sent through the USPS. The CMSO service requires that all mail sent through it be tracked and monitored from the moment it leaves the sender's hands until it reaches its destination. This helps to ensure that the mail is not tampered with, stolen, or lost in transit.

It typically takes about 1-2 weeks to receive your Certified Mail Security Officer (CMSO) number after you have submitted your request and payment. To get a CMSO number, you must submit an application form and payment to the USPS. You will then receive a confirmation email with your CMSO number.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Mail Security Officer (CMSO) number varies depending on the type of mail being sent and how many pieces are being sent at once. Generally, it costs about $1 per piece for domestic mail and $2 per piece for international mail.

10. Certified Bulk Mail Processor (CBMP)

Certified Bulk Mail Processor (CBMP) is a certification offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to help mailers increase efficiency and accuracy when processing bulk mailings.

The CBMP program provides training and education on the latest USPS regulations, procedures, and technologies related to bulk mailings. It also offers an opportunity for mailers to become certified in the proper handling of bulk mailings.

To become a Certified Bulk Mail Processor, you must take and pass an exam administered by the USPS. The exam covers topics such as postal regulations, customer service, and postal automation. You must also complete a background check with the USPS before you can be certified.

The process of becoming a Certified Bulk Mail Processor typically takes about two months from start to finish. To get started, you must first submit an application to the USPS along with all required documents and fees. Once your application is approved, you will receive information about scheduling your exam and completing your background check. After successfully passing your exam and completing your background check, you will receive your CBMP certification card in the mail within one month of completion.

The cost of becoming a Certified Bulk Mail Processor varies depending on which services or products you purchase from the USPS during the process. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for everything related to becoming certified including the exam fee, background check fee, etc.

Do You Really Need a Mail Handler Certificate?

The Mail Handler Certificate is an important credential for anyone looking to work in the mail handling industry. It is a certification that demonstrates that the holder has the knowledge and skills necessary to handle mail safely and efficiently. This certificate is especially important for those who are looking to advance within their current job or are seeking employment in a new field.

The Mail Handler Certificate is issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The certification process includes passing a written exam, completing on-the-job training, and submitting a portfolio of work samples. To obtain the certification, individuals must demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of mail handling, such as sorting, labeling, packaging, and delivery. Those who successfully pass the exam receive a certificate that can be used to obtain higher-level positions within the USPS or other organizations related to mail handling.

In many cases, having a Mail Handler Certificate can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the mail handling industry. It shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the industry and have acquired skills that make you an excellent candidate for any position related to mail handling. Additionally, having this certification may give you access to specialized training programs or career advancement opportunities that may not be available otherwise.

Overall, obtaining a Mail Handler Certificate is beneficial if you want to pursue a career in this field. Not only does it show potential employers that you are serious about your profession but it also provides you with more job opportunities and can open up pathways for further education or advancement in your career.

Related: Mail Handler Resume Examples

FAQs About Mail Handler Certifications

1. How do I become a mail handler?

Answer: To become a mail handler, you must pass the Postal Service Exam 473 and meet the other qualifications outlined by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). You can find more information about the exam and how to apply for it on the USPS website.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a mail handler?

Answer: The process of becoming a mail handler typically takes between four and six months from start to finish. This includes passing the exam, completing any background checks or other requirements, and completing training courses.

3. What types of duties are included in a mail handler's job?

Answer: Mail handlers are responsible for sorting, processing, and delivering incoming and outgoing mail for their assigned facility or post office. They may also be responsible for loading trucks with packages, unloading trucks with incoming packages, operating machinery such as pallet jacks or forklifts, and providing customer service at their post office window.

4. What is the pay rate for a certified mail handler?

Answer: The average hourly pay rate for a certified mail handler is $17 - $21 per hour depending on experience level and location. Additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans may also be available depending on your employer's policies.

5. Do I need any special skills to become a mail handler?

Answer: To become a certified mail handler you should have basic computer skills as well as strong organizational abilities and attention to detail when sorting packages or operating machinery such as pallet jacks or forklifts. Additionally, most employers will require successful completion of their training program before hiring you as a full-time employee so good communication skills are also beneficial in this line of work.