FAQs
The main difference between the two is that while registered mail provides the highest level of security and can only be sent to domestic addresses, certified mail is less secure but can be sent both domestically and internationally.
Which is better, certified or Registered Mail? ›
In short, use Registered Mail if you are sending an item that is valuable such as cash or jewelry. Use Certified Mail if your mailed item does not have a lot of intrinsic value but you need proof of mailing and proof of delivery of the mailpiece, such as when sending tax documents or legal notices.
When should you use Registered Mail? ›
It is often used for legal documents, and other mail items requiring provable delivery by a specific date. For a higher fee, registered mail provides the services of certified mail and additional protection for items that are irreplaceable or have high monetary value.
Why would I receive a registered letter? ›
It is this proof of delivery and the official date on the stamp that prevents the addressee from claiming afterwards that they did not receive the registered post or that they received it too late.
Does all Certified Mail require a signature? ›
A certified item needs a delivery signature; it can't be left in a mailbox or on a doorstep. Certified Mail is only available on first-class mail. USPS lets you get a signature from the person who received the mail, such as a receptionist.
What is the safest way to send important documents? ›
The most secure way to send legal documents by mail is with USPS Registered Mail because of its thorough tracking, comprehensive chain-of-custody, and lock-and-key security at every part of the journey.
What happens if no one signs for certified mail? ›
The delivery person can't leave Certified Mail without a signature. If no one is home to receive it, the postal worker will leave a note that a delivery attempt was made. USPS only makes one delivery attempt. After that, the carrier returns the letter or package to the nearest post office.
Does Registered Mail need a signature? ›
The most secure United States Postal Service® mail service (protected by safes, cages, sealed containers, locks, and keys). Must be presented to a retail employee or rural carrier. Requires a signature upon delivery.
What is usually sent by Registered Mail? ›
You can send letters, documents and small items like coins and jewellery by Registered Mail.
What should be sent by Registered Mail? ›
United States Postal Service Registered Mail is a very secure method for transporting items of value such as coins. Registered Mail is suitable for mailing up to $25,000.00 per package. The following is a step by step procedure for properly packaging and sending a piece of Registered Mail: Wrap the contents securely.
The main use for Registered Mail is sending expensive parcels. If something has an extremely high value, you're going to want more in-depth tracking. Real-time alerts during processing can help to give both you and the recipient peace of mind.
What is an advantage of sending a registered letter? ›
Registered mail is a postal service in many countries which allows the sender proof of mailing via a receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that an article was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made.
What does Registered Mail cost? ›
The cost of Registered Mail® is based upon the declared value of your shipment with rates at $18.60 and up and up. You can use Registered Mail with Priority Mail®, Collect-on-Delivery, USPS Tracking® (packages only), Restricted Delivery, Return Receipt, and Signature Confirmation™ (packages only).
What is the difference between certified and Registered Mail? ›
Both registered and Certified Mail are very similar in services, yet they serve different purposes. Certified Mail provides the sender proof that the shipment was mailed and when it's delivered. On the other hand, registered mail provides the sender package updates from every step of the shipment process.
Can you refuse Registered Mail? ›
(1) Pieces sent as Registered Mail', Insured Mail, Certified Mail', COD, Return Receipt for Merchandise Mail, or other signature mail may not be refused and returned postage free after delivery.
What happens if Registered Mail is not picked up? ›
If the addressee does not pick up your mail within 15 calendar days, it will be sent back to you. Make sure that your name and address are clearly written on the item.
What is the safest way to send valuables through the mail? ›
Double-Boxing and Custom Crating
For extra security, consider double-boxing your items or using custom crating solutions. Double-boxing involves placing the item in one box, then placing that box inside a larger, sturdier box with additional cushioning in between.
What costs more, Registered Mail or certified mail? ›
For a much higher cost and with strict packaging requirements, Registered mail provides the services of Certified mail, plus additional protection for items that are irreplaceable or have monetary value.
Is a signature required for Registered Mail? ›
What are the characteristics of Registered Mail and Registered Mail Restricted Delivery? The most secure United States Postal Service® mail service (protected by safes, cages, sealed containers, locks, and keys). Must be presented to a retail employee or rural carrier. Requires a signature upon delivery.
What is the safest mail delivery service? ›
Registered Mail® is the most secure way to send a package through the USPS. As part of the security conditions for this mail class, Registered Mail® must be sent with proof of mailing which requires a trip to the Post Office, so you can't deposit your package in a collection box.