Position Overview
A package or mail processing clerk is an individual who ensures that mail/packages reach the right recipients at the right time.
He or she usually works for a postal office, where they are tasked with handling mail on a daily basis.
Eligibility Criteria
Usually, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is sufficient to work as a package processing clerk.
Previous experience in this regard counts for a lot though.
If you have worked in a mail room before, you can easily qualify for this position as well.
Typically, you will be performing a wide variety of tasks, such as preparing packages in order to ensure that they meet postal protocols, and sorting and organizing incoming mail.
Skills and Abilities
Working as a package processing clerk means that you have to be on your toes at all times.
Rummaging through packages and mail items to find ones on request is not easy. You have to know the work inside out so that you can assist customers, and project a positive image of the facility that you are working for.
See also: Mail Processing Clerk Resume
A list of job duties particular to the position of a package processing clerk is provided below:
Package Processing Clerk Job Description
• Check incoming packages in order to ensure that no forbidden or banned items are being shipped
• Ensure that packaging is in sync with set parameters for packing and shipping
• Unload trucks and vans, in order to receive mail and packages
• Check all received items, and separate them according to addresses
• Sort and organize mail that needs to be delivered
• Load and operate mail processing and sorting machines
• Ensure that machinery is properly cleaned and maintained at regular intervals
• Label and route sorted packages according to their destination
• Ensure that proper postage is placed on all outgoing packages
• Respond to customers’ queries regarding postage, as well as delivery timelines
• Fix packages that are not in sync with set policies and protocols of the company
• Refuse packages that may contain banned items such as weapons and drugs
• Check all packages for suspicious items, and inform authorities as and when required
• Ensure that addresses and postage on all packages are legible and correct
• Place packages onto conveyor belts for culling and sorting purposes
• Weigh all received parcels in order to determine postage requirements
• Calculate mailing costs of letters and packages, and inform customers about required packing materials and processes