postaldelivery

Postaldelivery refers to the service of transporting mail and packages from sender to recipient by postal operators. It operates within national postal systems and, for international items, through cross-border networks coordinated by the Universal Postal Union and other regulatory bodies.

It covers standard letters, printed matter, parcels, registered mail, and express services. Core processes include collection (from mailboxes or business premises), sorting at distribution centers, transportation by road, air, rail, or sea, and last-mile delivery to the recipient.

Operations rely on address databases, barcodes, tracking systems, and security procedures. Real-time or near-real-time tracking provides visibility from origin to delivery. Delivery may require receipt confirmation or a signature, and options such as hold, redirection, or time preferences are often available while privacy is protected by law and policy.

Regulation and security: International mail crosses borders with customs controls and declarations, while domestic items follow consumer protection and regulatory standards. Anti-tampering measures, fraud prevention, and data-protection requirements apply to both physical handling and electronic records.

Technology and trends include automation and robotics in sorting facilities, route optimization, and digital tracking. The growth of e-commerce has increased parcel volumes and demand for faster delivery. Emerging options such as parcel lockers, drones, and electric vehicles shape future postaldelivery.