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What does a Mail Sorter do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A mail sorter is a person who works at a postal service sorting facility. They are responsible for sorting mail by destination and delivering it to the correct location.

Mail Sorter job duties include:

  • Reads outgoing mail to determine addressee and class of mail.
  • Sorts mail according to established procedures.
  • Examines mail for correct postage.
  • Cancels stamps on mail with postage meters.
  • Stamps or labels mail by hand to indicate proper postage.
  • Wraps, ties, or bundles mail for dispatch to other offices.
  • May feed letter-size papers into automatic sorting machines.
  • May operate canceling machines.
  • May sort incoming mail and perform other duties in postal stations and branches.

Mail Sorter Job Requirements

There is no formal education required to become a mail sorter, but most employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification is not required, but completing a postal service training program may give applicants a competitive edge. Previous experience working in a warehouse or distribution center is helpful, but not required. Mail sorters must be able to lift heavy packages and stand for long periods of time.

Mail Sorter Skills

  • Able to read and identify numbers and letters quickly
  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Good stamina for standing for long periods of time
  • Able to work independently
  • Able to follow instructions
  • Detail oriented
  • Able to work quickly and efficiently
  • Able to lift heavy objects
  • Able to work well under pressure
  • Team player

Related: Top Mail Sorter Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Mail Sorter

There are a few steps that one must take in order to become a mail sorter. The first step is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Once this has been accomplished, the next step is to complete on-the-job training, which is typically provided by the employer. After the training has been completed, the individual will then be able to take and pass a postal exam. Once these steps have been completed, the individual will be able to work as a mail sorter.

Related: Mail Sorter Resume Example

Related: Mail Sorter Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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