Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
then open in external browser
and click "Open in External Browser" 
The US postal service is currently undergoing a crisis with state officials cutting down on its funding—in a time when voting season is right around the corner and the pandemic isn’t showing signs of going away any time soon. All the while, given the context, it is a must to prepare properly for the influx of voter ballots alongside all of the regular mail that may come in through this vital state channel for communication.
So, in response to this, Reddit user u/carrot_maniac posted a question on r/AskReddit: Postal Workers of Reddit: What do you need right now? How can we brighten your day when we see you on our routes?
Needless to say, it was a question of benevolent intent that would hopefully reach a wider audience so as to not only inform people of the situation at hand, but to also encourage them to help USPS employees who bust their behinds to make sure you get your Christmas cards and Amazon packages delivered to your home, on time, and without harm.
Bored Panda has collected some of the best advice from Reddit on how we can all do our part to help USPS employees get past the US postal crisis and to show support to people working within a key governmental service. And while you’re scrolling through all of the advice provided below, why not vote on the ones you like the most and leave a comment on what you thought about this!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Listen to current events.. The election is coming and Trump has essentially declared war on the post office and is systematically trying to cripple the post office so it can be privatised. Do your research and vote wisely.
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
Total b******t. The postal workers were authorizing pay while many postal employees went and joined local campaigns for Clinton in 2016. Any issues the USPS has right now is out of mismanagement and pure spite for the current administration. If you were wiser as a union, you would clearly recall how Reagan fired every air traffic controller when they tried to hold the country hostage. I have done my research, and have done it well. I will vote wisely.
D H 5 years ago
speaking of doing homework.... this is an audit report of USPS in 2016 (Before Trump) Mailboxes were removed during the Obama administration - not that anyone cared https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/document-library-files/2016/DR-AR-16-007.pdf
Marek Yanchurak 5 years ago
Did you actually read that? The USPS Inspector Generals Office concluded that removing underused Mail Collection Boxes was a good idea, the problem was that it was not sufficiently researched and managed. You know what will help with that? How about that $35 billion the House approved for the USPS... Dejoy is doing a lot more than just removing collection boxes, btw...
Load More Replies...
Linda Vetri Carman Tesoroni 5 years ago
Bunch of BS...must have been posted by a STILL BUTT HURT Democrat...WAKE UP America..the left is PLAYING YOU...don't believe ANYTHING they say or POST...
RELATED:
#2
Former carrier here. Had one house that always left me a bottle of ice cold water. Highlight of that route!
Cheryle Fuller 5 years ago
We were next to last block on our street, so buy the time the postman had made it to the end of our street and back to our house, he was pretty tired, and he usually came during the heat of the day. I always had a glass of something cold, usually Koolaid or Iced tea, and if not that, then ice water for him. He was always so grateful. I have no idea what he did when I was in school or after we moved tho...
Cheryl Fontaine 5 years ago
So glad to read this... I too give my carrier something ice cold to drink on some of the unbearably hot and humid days here in PA...
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
I love doing this! I get many deliveries every day so I put the ice bucket out filled with a variety of drinks each day. Take what you like! Or make a request!
politecat 42 5 years ago
Doesnt that cost you a lot? Why do you get so many deliveries?
Load More Replies...
Sharon Madsen 5 years ago
Our area has no individual mail boxes. Thing of the past around here. Nothing but group boxes.
#3
I am a carrier. I have a running tic tac toe game going with some kids on my route. They have a paper hanging off of box and we just do one x or o a day. I'm not sure who looks more forward to it, me or them.
As soon as the Reddit post hit the boards, many people came out to give advice on how each and every one of us can help. While postal workers are said to love every bit of support and help they can get, whether moral or practical, there is some key advice worth emphasizing.
First of all, mail carriers do not have air conditioning in their vehicles, so working on hot days can be quite a challenge. Leaving some water for them on your porch or raising some funds with your neighbors for a car fan would be something you could do to help mitigate this. Some mail carriers are known to have water vests, so that’s also an option.
#4
A USPS truck broke down right in front of my driveway. I couldn't pull in. So I just parked in the neighbors driveway. Apparently she had been waiting there for over an hour for a replacement in the heat. I invited her into the air conditioning, gave her some snacks and water, helped her unload the packages when the truck arrived. I felt so bad for this poor lady. She was so thankful the whole time. Be kind to the USPS drivers they have it pretty bad.
Brandy Grote 5 years ago
the vehicles are from the 70s. One company that made major parts for them, like the axles, is out of business. Imagine how much money could be saved by upgrading the fleet to hybrid or electric where appropriate, adding a/c, just catching up to the world.
Stannous Flouride 5 years ago
Part of the 40 year effort by the Republican party to demolish the only gov't agency that is mandated in the Constitution, that, until the pandemic, was completely self-sustaining (even after they made them set aside 75 YEARS of future retirement and medical care in advance (something no other agency or corporation is required to do). And, by far is the most popular government agency with people on both sides of the fence. Someone said, "Republicans get elected by saying 'government doesn't work, we can fix it' and when they get elected they do everything in their power to make_sure_ it doesn't."
Load More Replies...
Susan Egan 5 years ago
When I started at the PO in 1974 they gave a safety meeting. They were demonstrating some of the equipment we'd use during a regular shift. One man stood up and said "Please always keep in mind, this is a government facility, all equipment comes from the lowest bidder. Treat each piece with that in mind." It stuck with me the whole time I worked there. Much of what we call rolling stock was very dangerous. Safety for employees is bottom of the tier. Next time you see a carrier with a fully loaded bag on their shoulder imagine what it would be like to carry that around everyday on one side. Most carriers have bad backs. Although we have or had better health care than most jobs, a body that is painful from wear and tear can't be cured even with good health care.
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
Yes. Be as kind as you can. Sometimes these letter carriers are attacked and some are chased and bitten by dogs.
Wouldn't You Like to Know 5 years ago
Yes, they might have it bad, but they signed up for the work.
#5
Carrier here! All I ask is for the love of God PLEASE WEAR PANTS WHEN ANSWERING THE DOOR!...ive had straight up naked dudes sign for there package without batting a eye...oh the stories of awkwardness I could tell you guys...oh also smiles and friendliness is appreciated 😃 ..but with clothes on.....
Marek Yanchurak 5 years ago
Maybe in their own minds, but I'd guess reality has a different interpretation.
Load More Replies...
Bob Belcher 5 years ago
Lol, same with delivering pizza in downtown Houston when I was a kid. Has several naked women answer the door thinking I was their man and then several were just drunk/high and thought it was funny. Always hated those because where were you holding your money! Same with getting a wad of ones from strip clubs. Hated delivering to them because strippers never tip assuming me getting to see your rack is a good tip already. Your rack didn't pay my bills.
deanna woods 5 years ago
Same with delivering pizza right now. Please put some clothes on before you open the door. Especially pants.
Load More Replies... Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
Agree! I had repeat customers (they liked to fight loudly) every weekend and the male counter part never wore pants. It was a game to see who called not it when going there to have to deal with him.
#6
Keep your dogs inside. If they're outside, make sure I can access your mailbox without them getting anywhere near me. If your dog is sitting outside and I think there's a risk, you're just not going to get your mail. Also, if you're going to meet me at the door, keep your dogs under control. I've had two dogs burst through the door because the owner didn't put enough physical effort into restraining their dogs. One of them was friendly and I got plenty of kisses, but the other one would have at least hospitalised me if there hadn't been a gate I could get behind and close. Keep. Your. Dogs. Inside.
Vic D 5 years ago
When I was young we had a mailman who loved dogs, he never got bitten and all the neighborhood dogs would follow him, it was very funny, sometimes you would even see the neighborhood kids following and talking with him. This mailman was amazing, we all loved him !
Madb vonMesser 5 years ago
I would love to up vote this more times. I'm also a letter carrier and I've had some really close encounters... Including being bitten ON THE FACE. Keep your dogs inside. Lost of them see is as potentially dangerous intruders onto your territory. Any dog will bite if it thinks it is protecting YOU.
Madb vonMesser 5 years ago
Had another close call TODAY. People letting their dog run around without a leash. I got pinned against the house and was going for my dog spray when they FINALLY got up and got their dog.
Load More Replies... Marcellus the Third 5 years ago
From the dogs' perspective, there's this persistent intruder that EACH DAY EXCEPT SUNDAY tries to break into their family's home. Which the good doggo successfully catches and scares away, day after day... So of course they get more frantic and ingrained over time.
Marnie 5 years ago
Not of course. It is up to the owner to teach the dog who is friend and who is foe, just their packmates would do in the wild.
Load More Replies... deanna woods 5 years ago
This goes for pizza delivery. I don't want you to come outside, but please control your dogs.
Kelsey Montgomery 5 years ago (edited)
Ok, I think this one is a little harsh to me. I am not standing outside hand and foot waiting for you to deliver my mail just so I can keep my dog at bay. we live our lives too. All I can say to that is, train your dogs people.
Kathy Brown 5 years ago
My dad was a mailman and he carried dog biscuits and gave them to the dogs to keep them from biting him. Before he carried the biscuits, he was bitten at least once by a dog.
Another way you could help is by keeping your dogs inside when you’re expecting mail. Sure, some dogs just want to greet them with kisses and cuddles, but there are cases when owners don’t put enough effort in stopping their more aggressive dogs from attacking the mail personnel.
Last, but certainly not least, having a bigger mailbox would benefit all, as the mail couriers would have a place to store some of your bigger packages safely and you’d be sure that your package is not in sight of porch pirates. Also, don’t block mailboxes with cars when parking on the street. It just leads to much bigger traffic congestion.
#7
My Mom has worked for USPS since she was 18. She's 64 now. I just asked her, "Hey Ma, what do you need right now as a USPS employee?" and she yelled back, "GO OUT AND F****** VOTE". So that's Kathy's answer. She DID say the best thing you can do for carriers (she's a clerk) is sanitize your mailbox with a wipe if isn't too much of an ask. The mail carrier touches every. single. mailbox. in their route. Cold bottles of water are also super appreciated.
GirlFriday 5 years ago
Going out now and wiping mine down with a clorox wipe and leaving a note thanking them for their service.
A Random Panda 5 years ago
I miss Clorox wipes. My desk looks like I smeared pencils on it, and its white. I'm left handed too, so I always get pencil on the side of my hand if I write too long.
Load More Replies... Marek Yanchurak 5 years ago
Please vote people, whoever you decide to vote for. Voting is integral to being a responsible, patriotic citizen.
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
Good idea (sanitizing the box). Voting is a given. I will f*****g vote, be sure of it.
#8
I run a small business out of my home. My mailman does a home pickup about twice per week. I've been giving him gift cards about twice per month to places he likes. The guy is so appreciative and goes out of his way to help me. I couldn't do my business without him. If you're out there Jesse, you're the man!
Hilary Mol 5 years ago
Being on the receiving end of kindness and thoughtfulness is always welcome. It feels like there's too little of it these days. And being kind to someone else doesn't cost you a thing. :)
IrishGirl 5 years ago
Exactly! One thing my kiddos learned early on is 'if you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.' Thank you, Carriers!
Load More Replies...
Mer☕️🧭☕️ 5 years ago
My mom used to have a FANTASTIC mail man. He would help her get big, heavy, or awkward packages she'd ordered inside the house and if there was a package delivered that day, he'd just bring the "envelope mail" to the door with the box, etc. He was a genuinely nice guy and mom would make sure to leave him gift certificates to a local restaurant at Christmas every year (until he, sadly, retired - how dare he!).
#9
I'm a lily-white carrier that delivers in Bed Stuy. If I could go one week without being called a b****, being spit on, or being shoved out of buildings, that'd really mean a lot.
WilvanderHeijden 5 years ago
Didn't know what Bed Stuy meant, so I searched it. First hit: 3 Men Shot While Standing Outside In Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn .... I feel for carriers that have to deliver mail in those kinds of neighborhoods.
Flare 5 years ago
If an incident involving violence shows up first instead of information about the city, that's I place I do NOT want to vacation to.
Load More Replies...
Kimberley Thomas 5 years ago
I used to live there. I never heard of such nonsense. Not a fan of racism no matter who initiates it.
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
That is horrible. I say make them all come down and stand in line in the post office to get their damn mail if they want to act like that.
June Dominguez 5 years ago
To this or others who deliver to dirt bag areas! If you don’t get respect or good or safe treatment let the upper echelons do the routes and make them suffer your situations,then, maybe something would be done and if youare union, strike against those bad people until you can find a place to put their mail and tell them, get it yourself!
My O My 5 years ago
Racism is for everyone - but racism is usually displsyed as white against black in the media
Load More Replies...Above all, be friendly and kind to people who make sure you don’t have to go anywhere to get your mail and important packages, this way avoiding any potential contact with those suffering from COVID-19. Be understanding if a package is coming in late—it’s not their fault logistics isn’t perfect. Thank them for their service, offer them cold water or a snack on their route, and show them you appreciate their service.
The Reddit post soon went viral, not only receiving over 5,200 comments with helpful advice, but also garnering nearly 80,000 upvotes and being given over 140 various Reddit awards.
Keep scrolling for more unique insights into how you can help your mail courier on a daily basis, and why not let us know what you thought about this. Perhaps you have your own mailing stories? Let us know in the comment section below!
#10
Postal clerk here. Honestly, just support. I have a family of 4 and all this b******* around the postal service going under has got my anxiety through the roof. I know it’s easier said than done, but any chance to support us is awesome. I honestly love my job and I love what I do. I would hate to have to start over. Thanks for supporting us kind strangers
Raine Soo 5 years ago
Good luck with all the rubbish that is going around. I support anyone who earns an honest living. You sound like you take pride and joy in your work. That is rare these days.
June Dominguez 5 years ago
I love the Postal Service and their people! I have only had one postal worker stealing my magazines that I had ordered and I am now 61 years old so, that says tons of how honest most postal workers are! They are also very hard workers! Thank you all for your services !
#11
Keep in mind the mail carriers don't have air conditioning in their vehicles. There was one that got baked alive in California last year. The collection drivers don't have A/C as well, but they don't hit the residential areas for the most part.
J Sizz 5 years ago
This blows my mind, how can they not put AC in those trucks? It's brutal heat in the southwest summers.
Lisa 5 years ago
The LLV was made in 1994, they ain't adding a/c now. They do buy us electrolyte popsicles tho.
Load More Replies...
Kelsey Montgomery 5 years ago
There is no way mail carriers in Tucson, AZ or PHX are surviving without A/C... this sounds inhumane
Debbie 5 years ago
Based on one article I read they weren't sure yet what was the cause. (Not much research I know). Bit it was 117 Fahrenheit which is 47°Celsius....I can't imagine a hot day like that.
Load More Replies... BlackestDawn 5 years ago
Not sure if it applies to postal workers but there was a post here a while ago that explained why -I think it was- UPS doesn't have AC in their delivery vehicles, and that was because they don't allow their drivers to close the doors (reduces efficiency) and thus an AC would be effectively useless.
Bacony 5 years ago
(nursery rhyme tone) Trumpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Trumpty Dumpty should be (sudden voice shift) f*****g imprisoned.
Load More Replies... Susan Egan 5 years ago
I was a clerk in FL but I knew quite a few of the carriers including mine. One day I was out while he was delivering we stopped to chat for a second. While we talked I watched gnats sliding down his face with his sweat. I was so grateful to be a clerk that day.
Lisa Chambers 5 years ago
Why? These days you have to go out of your way to order a vehicle made without ac.
#12
Husband delivers mail and he loves just about anything people do. From pictures drawn from kids along the route to thank you letters to cold water and ding dongs. He is appreciative of it all!!
Marcellus the Third 5 years ago
"Ding dongs" sounds like innuendo... hoping it's some kind of USA snack instead!
#13
If you see me asleep in my vehicle, plz understand that I'm on break and I'll be awake shortly lol.
#14
Buy stamps! Seriously its how they are funded it can literally save the post office.
Curry on... 5 years ago
It'd be cool to re-start that old habit of writing (and mailing) letters.
A Random Panda 5 years ago
Last month we sen a thick care package to our family in Japan. I wrote the letter in Japanese, which, BTW, I can't really read.
Load More Replies...
Stannous Flouride 5 years ago
I just bought 100 pre-stamped post cards (@$0.39 each) from the USPS, when they come I'm going to mail every one every day until the election to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave (for non-Yanks, that's the White House) with the message "YOU'RE FIRED" on it.
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
No amount of stamps is going to save the USPS from Trump. VOTE!
Marek Yanchurak 5 years ago
It shouldn't have to be this way. The Postal Service, which predates the foundation of the US, truly a cornerstone of our democracy, is a service. It was never meant to be a business. It's awful that this is how things have ended up.
M O'Connell 5 years ago
The post office also has a selection of pretty nice greeting cards, and a few other "gift"-like items. And if you don't care what image your stamps have, help them turn-over dated inventory. And actually use the complimentary priority mail shipping boxes for priority mail and not other things...
Cynthia Souza 5 years ago
Bought three pages back when all this bs started. There are some very cool theme stamps. I bought Apollo 11, Sesame Street and a sheet of regular forever stamps. Guess it's time to buy more.
CharliAnn Olney 5 years ago
I love to send cards and letters! I love to surprise shut-ins, friends and even people I don't really know that well. Especially now!
Veronica Vatter 5 years ago
I ship as many packages for my small business as possible thru USPS
#15
Cold water on a hot day, being patient with us if there are delays, somebody actually being home to take the next day 1pm delivery parcel you ordered, agree on a safe place for any parcels you get so your postie doesn’t have to spend extra time writing out a card
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
As if we have any control over what time of day you show up with the parcel... no one is going to stay home all day and lose their work income for an random order.
#16
Former mail carrier here, #1 get a bigger mail box lol. Water and treats are nice, but a box they don't have to get out at to deliver things is the gift that keeps on giving.
Stephanie Did It 5 years ago
Yes! Don't put up a cheaper but smallish box then complain when the carrier has nowhere else to put a calendar or small/medium package.
Cindy Jarrett 5 years ago
I have moved five times in eight years...we have placed a new BIG box in four home we rented!
#17
Stop blocking the mailbox when you park on the street.
Dragonfruit'nrollerskates 5 years ago
I live near my high school. My mailbox kept getting knocked down by kids on a truck with a bat, and we were the ones in trouble with the mailman.
Brandy Grote 5 years ago
When you reinstall, make sure it's a really solid one, on a concrete post, with the hole filled with concrete. Add a home camera and go after those kids by taking the video in to the school office for identifying. Young felons can be stopped.
Load More Replies... Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
Streetside mailboxes are so strange to me... growing up mostly in Nebraska, the vast majority of our mailboxes are attached to the houses. Postal workers have to walk their routes as a result, but given that there's no AC in their trucks that might be a blessing in the summer (and a curse in the winter) here.
deanna woods 5 years ago
Same here in the Texas town I live in. The only places with mailboxes at the street are the real rural areas.
Load More Replies...
Susan Egan 5 years ago
Post Office policy is if your mailbox is blocked the carrier does not have to deliver your mail. If the carrier is getting out of the truck to get to your box, they are doing you a favor. If you box is down or has sharp edges, they do not have to deliver. If your mailman does thank them. Management would say not to do it.
Joyce Brazel 5 years ago
I finally had to cement in an iron mail box because kids kept beating it to death with a bat or roping it and dragging it down the street. $279.00
CharliAnn Olney 5 years ago
Lived in a Snowy Clime. Snow plow would COVER my mailbox. I was/am a disabled widow. Post Office refused to deliver my mail until I cleared the ICE the snowplow left. I sold my home and moved out of state to an apartment.
#18
ICE COLD BOTTLE OF WATER. Don't ask them if they want it, just give it to them 😅
La Petite Morte 5 years ago
You sound like a nasty entitled person who's never done a manual job or anything that required you to be on your feet outside for hours at a time. Leaving a cold bottle of water is simple, easy, and a nice thing to do. You know, being nice to people just because? It's a thing, you should try it some day.
Load More Replies... #19
I’m a carrier and I can tell you the cutest thing I see with the men in my office is the pure joy on their face when they reveal all the drinks/snacks they were given on their routes. They are so excited to take their treasures home to show the family. They even take pictures and post them on Facebook. As for me I love being squirted with a hose. A garden hose that is!
bryguy 5 years ago
I'm going to spray my post man with the hose next time I seen him and yell "YOU'RE WELCOME!"
Cori 5 years ago
I left a few pieces of hard candy in the mailbox for our post person when I was a kid. Was completely crestfallen when it was just left in there. That being said, given the tough times going on with the US postal service, I think I might have my kids write a cute thank you note and leave it in the box with a snack cake or something. It's a high stress time for those fine folks right now.
#20
I’m a postal clerk that works in the back; complain about dog food packaging to Amazon. Dog food comes in big boxes with uneven weight distribution that becomes dangerous and heavy when picking up. Amazon will only start packaging the dog food better if people complain . Make sure you complain to AMAZON not the USPS.
NMN 5 years ago
My cat food comes in a box that is around the same size as the actual package, it's tight and thin. So there's no shifting in weight. Idk if it depends on the Amazon warehouse or the seller.
bryguy 5 years ago
My cat food is on a subscription from Amazon and sometimes it comes in the package you described, nice fitting and doesn't move around. Other times it comes in a huge box with nothing to secure it in place so the box is all crushed on every side. Same product every month, different packaging every month.
Load More Replies...
Shirley Heyn 5 years ago
I agree. . . almost tripped and fell getting my "moving" dogfood-in-large-box into my house from just outside of the door! No warning on box of "shifting weight"!!!! So sorry to the carriers who have to deal with this a lot more than me.
Amber Cory 5 years ago
Amazon needs to add more than just that one strip of paper tape to the seams.
howdylee 5 years ago
omg and 40lb bags of cat litter! I stopped buying litter from amazon because of this!
Angel Moki 5 years ago
Please quit buying heavy cat litter from Amazon. I struggle to get that 40lb box the 50 ft to it's spot in my own home but then someone wants me to walk across their uneven yard/stepping stones and climb 10 steep steps to their porch to deliver?!??!!!
Load More Replies... #21
My father has been a postal worker for decades. What makes him smile the most is when people just reach out and be nice and friendly. He would always tell us stories about the people who would put a smile on his face. Notes/cards go a long way. But also just say hi and ask them how their day is going.
Scagsy 5 years ago
I might be alone but my postie would probably think I was weird if I started leaving him notes. Might just be me though.
Bob Belcher 5 years ago
I was thinking that too; but then I thought, what if I leave funny jokes? Clean jokes.
Load More Replies... Brandy Grote 5 years ago
if I'm outside & see my carrier, I'll chat with them. Most are really nice & enjoy a friendly conversation!
#22
Honesty anything helps and please be friendly and understanding if something is late or missing. As of right now a lot of this stuff is out of our control. It’s coming straight down from up top and there isn’t a lot we can do about it ourselves.
Kayla J 5 years ago
This isn't a current thing, but some years ago the mailman rang our doorbell which was strange. Apparently a truck had caught fire and some of our mail was singed, but they were still trying to deliver it weeks later. The mail was in ziploc bags and there was a letter with it, but our carrier still apologized profusely. We thought it was such a unique situation and told him how nice it was that they were still trying to deliver mail even weeks later.
#23
STOP YELLING AT ME WHEN I CAN NOT FIND YOUR PACKAGE!!!! We get mail from UPS AND Fedex and sometimes it’s already comes all f***** up or they lost it...but we are last to touch it, then customers hate us for thinking we damaged the package or lost it.
Brandy Grote 5 years ago
i feel sorry for delivery people who have to handle a torn, mangled, dripping ruined package.
June Dominguez 5 years ago
You don’t have to swear! I never did that to any of you! You could say it much nicer and be the bigger person!
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
USPS, UPS, FedEx... they all are really great at mishandling mail. It gets old. It's frustrating. And it costs both companies and individuals a lot of time and money to fix. If you want to be treated better, handle the mail better.
#24
Stop putting your garbage in front of your mailbox.
WilvanderHeijden 5 years ago
Just leave a friendly note. Most people don't even realize how annoying it is to have to move stuff that is blocking mailboxes a hundred times a day.
Lisa 5 years ago (edited)
If it's curbside then you just don't get your mail til it's not blocked.
Load More Replies... #25
As a postal worker all I ask is for us to be free from that insane bill that forces USPS to pay benefits 75 years into the future. And to allow the USPS to thrive in innovation once again (see air mail beacons,Pneumatic Tubes, etc..) It would also be nice to not have to use a competitor to ensure timely delivery of some of our time sensitive services (Priority Mail Express).
M O'Connell 5 years ago
I'd like to see someone with entrepreneurial spirit put together an easy electric conversion kit for the LLV. It really is the ideal vehicle for mail delivery, but their drive-trains are quite old and inefficient. Though I have noticed that all of them used by my local post office have LED headlights now.
Marek Yanchurak 5 years ago
Seriously. Point out to me one private business who does anything like this? And completely out of the blue. That bill alone is the major factor keeping the USPS from profitability. It's like demanding a long time jogger to do a 5 minute mile, but oh yeah, we're gonna break kneecaps first, have fun!
Sheri O'Sullivan 5 years ago
You can thank Nixon and the other Republican Presidents after him. They want to destroy the USPS so it can be sold to one of their 1%er friends. The USPS was never intended to be a business; it's always been a government service for ALL of the American people no matter where they lived. The government always set aside a line item in their budget to pay for these services. Just imagine how high the cost of sending a letter or package will be if the private sector gets the USPS!
Janelle Collard 5 years ago
ABSOLUTELY!! This should be #1 cuz it's the #1 reason USPS is in trouble.
#26
Put numbers on your damn mailbox/house. Send cards/legit letters to people. Tear down your POS lockbox that nothing fits into and get an actual mailbox.
Elak Swindell 5 years ago
Highly visible numbers is definitely a must. Not enough people do this. I'm a furniture delivery guy and being able to see them really helps, just like it does for postal personnel.
Sheri O'Sullivan 5 years ago
Put your address #s BIG so when you have a heart attack or stroke or diabetic coma the ambulance can find your house.
June Dominguez 5 years ago
You are certainly not in control of yourself! Grow up and act kindly! This is to the rude person who put this notice here in the first place! Be calm, take a deep breath, act nicely and give honey not hate and bitters!
The Sudden Demise 4 years ago
Sounds like you want a nice hold on your mail until you get that problem fixed . And yes we can if we argue you are taking up to much time
Load More Replies...
#27
Former post carrier, not from USA tho, but still applies: saying hello/good morning, it's surprising the amount of times I smiled and said good morning to have the other person looking me if I was an alien from another galaxy. It's free and trust me, that alone helps more than you think.
Raine Soo 5 years ago
I always greet my mail carriers, and thank them when they leave. As I always say, it costs nothing to be courteous, and the rewards are exponential.
Nicole Holt 5 years ago
LOL! I just misread part of your message. I read: "....and spank them when they leave..." I thought: Well, the mailman has delivered at our house for a long time and knows me. Maybe he'll be up for it ;) ;)
Load More Replies...
Aileen Grist 5 years ago
I say hello to everyone - especially if they make eye contact with me.
#28
Former letter carrier for nine years on a walking route. I know winter hasn’t arrived yet, but when it snows, please make sure you shovel your stairs. Most people did, of course.
#29
"Can confirm [that the transport doesn't have AC]. You could buy them a battery-powered mini fan that clips to something in their truck. Some wear water vests to keep cool."
Isabel Care 5 years ago
Some couriers have got to my door almost fainting in the heat. I slap a wet towel on their neck and top up/ give them a water bottle (some have no idea how important hydration is to no crashing a vehicle)
June Dominguez 5 years ago
HERE IS AN IDEA TO MANY, GET THE SPRAY BOTTLES WITH BATTERIES TO POWER THEM, PUT WATER IN AND STAY COOLER, THAT IS WHAT I DO BECAUSE I HATE THE HEAT AND DONT DO WELL IN IT!
#30
Stop coming out side to grab the mail from them in person. They have a risky job already. With covid there are a lot more concerns and rules in place and he can't do his job safely if he can't keep a safe distance awake. He'd love to chat if you want to chat from a safe distance, but just let him do his job and put your mail in the box.
Tina Payne 5 years ago (edited)
I’ve been a carrier for 16 years now. There are so many reasons why we would love you to just stay inside and let us do our job. For me the number 1 reason is because of dogs. I don’t know how many people will come to the door and fight their dog from getting out and attacking me instead of just allowing us to put it in the box and walk away safely. Number 2-Covid. Number 3- We are trying to concentrate and make sure you get the correct mail. There are many times that mail comes in in the wrong order or to a wrong street or name etc. and we have to pick those out by hand-Not to mention there are carriers that are not familiar with the area and are just trying to figure out where they are. And lastly we are on a major time constraint and unfortunately don’t have time to stop and talk most of the time: Number 4- back to number one. DOGS. And please, do not tell us your dog won’t bite, just restrain your dog. Every single time I’ve ever been bitten has been by a dog that doesn’t bite...
thepinkrobot 5 years ago
If the shoe doesn't fit, Karen, don't wear it. You have a reason. I'm sure this is talking to ppl who run out of their house just to get their mail quicker.
Load More Replies... #31
Tips. Rules say $20 max. But they think I’m going to favor you if you tip me. I’m not. I treat everyone’s mail and parcels like my own. Even if you have a mail slot. 😂 So tip us whatever amount you want. Or don’t tip us. I’ll still treat your stuff with respect. But man do tips feel awesome. We work 60+ hours a week. It’s nice to take the family out and not worry about how many hours of work that meal cost.
WilvanderHeijden 5 years ago
"We work 60+ hours a week" Louis DeJoy smirking: "Not for very much longer..."
Stephanie Did It 5 years ago
And what is wrong with tipping the garbage person? They are people too, working hard to make a living and support families. Come to think of it, who better DESERVES a tip for doing a difficult and dirty job??
Load More Replies...
#32
My dad is a postman. On several occasions my dad has recieved hand drawn pictures from families saying thank you, he has recieved bottles of water, offered cups of tea or coffee, and occasionally been given beers as a gift for his birthday or for christmas. Even offering postal workers to stand in a porch or under shelter during the rain is a massive help. But a simple thank you goes a long way, and really makes his day.
#33
When the quarantine was just getting started, a few of my customers left me a note in their mailbox. Just a friendly thanks and reminder that I am appreciated being out there during these hard times, making sure people get their mail and packages. I’d say this small kindness would be much appreciated again with all of this political nonsense interfering with my career. ✌🏼
#34
Please don't ask us what's going on with the post office. We really don't know either. We have no control over anything other than that. It's so sad because I love my job, my route and my customers. I've been on the same route for almost four years. That's my focus and that's what I care about right now. I hope to be able to continue doing my job for another twenty years. Sorry for rambling, but this whole thing hurts...we're taking it day by day and hoping we have enough people on our side.
WilvanderHeijden 5 years ago
Louis DeJoy is the guy dismantling the USPS. If you have any questions about your future mail deliveries, you must ask him. He is known as the job-killer because he firmly believes that everything can be done by automation and robots. So expect an inadequate, failing, dystopian mailservice where your mail is either too late or missing and there's no one in charge who will take responsibility.
#35
Thank you for the positive responses. Postal employees truly love our customers. I am a 27 plus year clerk that has also supervised and served as a union representative. We have lived through years of bullcrap and bureaucracy. I personally just want to do a great job, treat my customers with the highest of respect and go home happy. We are not your punching bags though and do not care about your political views. We love Republicans, Democrats and Liberals all the same. Unless, of course, you are disrespectful.
Final score:
7points
#36
Wait patiently for your mail...at your home. Don't coming hunting them down so you can get your junk mail and packages faster. If you have an immediate need for something, don't order it online or request expedited shipping if you do
#37
It's extremely hot in my city right now. So some ice water would be amazing. Some people put up signs to take cherries, pears, or apples from their trees - that's super helpful, since I don't carry food with me and the sugar helps especially on hot days.
#38
This goes for Canada, but I'm not sure about other countries. If you don't want flyers, put a little notice saying "no flyers" or "no junk mail" or something like that. They're all the same thing, so synonyms cover everything - no need to put "no flyers or junk or unaddressed mail" or whatever. Here's the big thing though: some people like to put it under the lid of the mailbox, and that not only makes it difficult to see when I'm delivering, but I can't see it until I lift the lid. Making it visible from the road is really useful.
Marcellus the Third 5 years ago
UK posties systematically ignore such stickers. There aren't "official" stickers of that type, coincidentally... No such problems many EU countries --- oh ah UK isn't in EU anymore gotcha.
PotatoNinja5000 5 years ago (edited)
We've only just come out. This is an issue that we had a long while before we came out, so whilst there are lots of things that I could blame Brexit on, this isn't one of them.
Load More Replies... #39
I’m a carrier. Honestly leave me alone. I’m trying to just go about my day and listen to music. It’s my time to enjoy myself. I have managers and their managers breathing down my neck. I don’t need a “I don’t want it if it’s a bill” joke from you. Just a “Thank you” or “have a good day.”
Lisa 5 years ago
I'll defend this person because I have days like this but still am cordial. Many carriers aren't regulars they are RCAs. We work up to 10 days in a row, we are not supposed to but sometimes we have a really crappy manager who will try to enforce this. After we finish our route, if there are not enough carriers then we go back out. Some days (like Holiday season) last from 6 am to 7 pm. It's rough and stressful. Also we don't get vacation time paid or unpaid til we make regular. Which is having your own route.
#40
By now you should have an idea roughly what time we come to your house. Turn your d*** sprinklers off if they are on our walking path. Yes it feels good for about 15 seconds. And then it makes me feel even more muggy.
#41
Educate yourselves about how much of a f****** disaster the USPS is internally, educate yourselves about how we're losing money despite fully defaulting on the prefund mandate. Educate yourselves about how our current fleet of 30 year old vehicles costs more in annual repairs than a new fleet would cost.
#42
Get rid of your door slot. Trying to shove in your thick magazines and our wonderful ads is a nightmare.
#43
Berlin courier - I've got only one thing. When You're customer, waiting for delivery of a package - make a postman better day, just walk down the stairs a bit, instead of waiting with anger cause postman is going too long upstairs. You're not king of the floor, You don't need so hard protect the your floor - just make a favor to Postman, go downstairs a bit, I hope it won't hurt ;)
#44
Have a house number on your house. For the love of God please put some indicator of a house number on your sodding house. Interesting fact, affluent areas and houses are the worst offenders. Nice big 4x4 or mercedes, no house number, every, single, time. Honestly you could write on it on a piece of toilet paper and stick it on a window, it would help. Also people who put plants and s*** Infront of their letter boxes... Stop that s***
Cuddles 5 years ago
We got one of those very nice house number plates from the local fire department. The numbers go up and down if the house is across the street and side to side if it's on the same side as the mailbox. Good for us, the fire department/emergency services AND the postal workers.
M O'Connell 5 years ago
Only some parts of the country do this, and in others (like where I live) the fire protection district plate is just a dispatching-reference number, and isn't actually my address. Especially since streets around here have overlapping names.
Load More Replies... bryguy 5 years ago
I can confirm... I used to deliver flowers for a flower shop and I was so surprised to see soooo many houses with no house numbers. Old houses, brand new houses, high end homes, lower end homes, all without numbers. It makes it super difficult because then you need to drive back and see what the last few houses were and the next few houses and guess which one it might be in between. I've had a lot of very happy people feel let down when I would ask "is this 2407?" "no... this is 2405"
CrunChewy McSandybutt 5 years ago
I agree, and I'm not a Postal Carrier. I just would like to find my friend's place without looking like a weirdo stalker.
#45
Maintain your property. Tick season is closing out. If your grass is a foot high and we have to walk through it, we will have tons of oak mite bites for sure.
#46
I once gave my mailman a tin can looking thing shaped like a mailbox (little red arrow thingy and all) and filled it up with chocolates for Christmas. Think he liked that.
#48
Crossing the grass just makes our lives infinitely easier in so many ways. It does depend on your lawn and what kind of house you live in, but just in general, three steps instead of forty. Super helpful. So if you don't want us crossing the grass, which I do get, what about a stepping stone or two? One or two steps a day won't kill your grass, but even if heavy traffic does, you'll have more interesting plants growing there eventually anyway.
Stephanie Did It 5 years ago
I don't mind a mail carrier walking across my grass once a day; that is their job. Trick or treaters? No. Use the sidewalk whether your parents are along or not. Safer for everyone, out in the open, less liability for homeowners, more protection from vandals. I'm not going to be responsible for you tripping and hurting yourself in my yard.
averageperson 5 years ago
Many children also face this problem on Halloween. Please, stop building walkways that take forever, for the sake of the mailmen and ghosts.
#49
Get rid of your damn mail slot! Nothing annoys me more than a mail slot. Nobody wants to steal your Subway fliers. It just makes our job unnecessarily harder. A box at the bottom of stairs is a miracle. Or along the sidewalk. Imagine how many stairs I climb a day. If you save me 5 I’ll love you forever.
GirlFriday 5 years ago
My father delivered the mail for years and he said this exact same thing. He hated mail slots with a passion so much so that if we were out to dinner and he saw someone with a mail slot at their home, he would start making comments about mail slots being the absolute worst so the person could hear him.
Cassie 5 years ago
I recently moved into a neighborhood (used to live on a farm with a box at the road) and the mailbox here is on the porch next to the door. I mentioned installing a box along the road instead to save the mail person a few steps through our parking area and the step up to the porch, but I was told it's not permitted on the side streets like the one we're on. Kind of crappy, imo.
#50
Don’t comment on what time the mail arrives. Sometimes you have a different carrier that has other work to do than the route they carry. Sometimes the carrier is under tremendous pressure to hurry from management. There is no set delivery time.
Isabel Care 5 years ago
Sometimes that poor carrier has to deliver to an evilly designed housing estate. Our neighbouring houses, facing the same way, on the same road, are a different address. We have Walks, Lawns and Greens that are access by 5 different roads for one address with homes orientated all ways and alongside differing addresses. Some delivery people and home help/nurses have ended up in tears even with locals trying to help them. This estate, and a nearby similar one were designed by an American...think he hated the UK
#51
Keep an eye out for theft and vandalism. Especially those multi unit boxes (CBUs). My wife is a carrier and when those get broken into it adds extra time for both the carrier and recipients waiting for them to get fixed
#52
If we receive a lot of parcels from someone - It’s nice when they leave snacks on porch with a little sign like “Thank you mail carrier. Help yourself". Small bags of chips, candy bars, etc. we love those people and take good care of their parcel.
#54
Also don’t move your damn box without at a minimum asking me. If your box is damaged or so small I have to fold s*** replace it. If your box door is hard for you to open with 2 or 3 fingers replace it. Usually my hands are so full I have 1 or 2 fingers to lift the lid or open it and place the mail.
#55
Be patient. If you are missing an important parcel, medication, etc, we want to know so we know what is happening on our route. But keep in mind that you get what we get on a daily basis. Don’t bother us about petty things like a bill you saw in informed delivery but didn’t receive. You’ll get it when you get it. Informed delivery is an estimate not a guarantee. Don’t invade our space during a pandemic to ask about something like this.
#56
Students and other transient populations - know your address and place a forward when you move! So many don’t do this and it’s a daily hassle to the carrier who is left to figure it out for you. If you live in a duplex or apartment, your apartment number is essential.
#58
If you have anything on your mind, a question or a complaint. Be upfront and quick about it. Delivery drivers are tracked and have a set schedule when they need to be done. Don't make them lose more time than they have to.
What do you think ?
GirlFriday 5 years ago
Thank you for the inspiration. I just took a care package out to the mail box for the letter carrier. I put in some disinfecting wipes, some cooling body wipes, some hand sanitizer, hand lotion, lip balm and hard candy. I hope this brightens his day.
Cuddles 5 years ago
Our letter carrier stopped to give me a package and saw my basset hound and was like "Can...can I pet him?" "Sure. But he'll probably flip upside down because he likes belly rubs." Now the hound will awoo away if he hears the car in the driveway because he seems to know it's his friend who rubbed his belly. (Rural route carrier, they use an old battered station wagon and the dog knows the sound of it.)
Richard Brown 5 years ago
Postal worker left my house on Saturday after I gave her a box of chocolates (Roses) and a thank you card for working during the pandemic. It's the first one she has ever had
Leo Domitrix 5 years ago
Wow. My family must be really weird. We've always had 1. huge mailboxes 2. left cold water/cards/notes 3. kept our pets restrained 4. not blamed them for Customs holding up a package, etc. 5. chatted politely if they like and 6. kept our garbage nowhere near the mail. Like, who wouldn't be nice to the mail-people? Just... be nice. And you learn a LOT abou tthe neighborhood (crime trends, etc.) and about mail regulations (ohkay, if you are ONE millimeter over, yes, DHL will refuse the package!), etc..... AND WHO DOES NOT CLEAN THEIR MAILBOX?!! !OMG!!! WHere I live now, a black widow spider can live in the back. CLean 'em, wipe 'em daily, and remove pests. Nobody wants to risk a spider/snake/wasp!
Tardis42 5 years ago
Some of these seem legitimate, but others just seem like complaining. It's their job to get the mail to me. If it's legal for me to have a mail slot, and I want one in MY house, I'll have one. Also, though I agree, if there's a vicious dog in the yard, a mail carrier shouldn't be expected to enter the yard, if I want my mailbox on my house, not at the street, the mail carrier should walk up and put it in my mailbox, even if it means they'll have to take extra steps. It's part of the job.
bryguy 5 years ago
Some of these really are just people complaining to complain. Like the one saying you should "at a minimum" consult with him before moving or buying a mailbox. Like come on.
Load More Replies...
Astrid Nineor 5 years ago
My mum put a box of chocolates on top of the litter bin for the bin men once. They threw it in the bin without looking at it :(
bryguy 5 years ago
Seeing pictures of mailboxes seems so dated, most people in my country have centralized mailboxes with parcel compartments for large packages. I haven't had a mailbox since around 2005. I imagine it makes the lives of the postal workers a lot easier
K.Kobayashi 5 years ago (edited)
Most mailboxes in the US are curbside. In most cases the postal worker can put the mail in there without getting out of the van. Though of course apartment complexes and condos have centralized mailboxes.
Load More Replies... Courtney Christelle 5 years ago
At Christmas time my mom will put a bag of home baked cookies with a note for the mailman. At my office is Stan the Mailman, very nice fellow. I made him and his wife crocheted scarves for Christmas and a tin of various home made treats one year. They work hard, show them some love.
GirlFriday 5 years ago
Thank you for the inspiration. I just took a care package out to the mail box for the letter carrier. I put in some disinfecting wipes, some cooling body wipes, some hand sanitizer, hand lotion, lip balm and hard candy. I hope this brightens his day.
Cuddles 5 years ago
Our letter carrier stopped to give me a package and saw my basset hound and was like "Can...can I pet him?" "Sure. But he'll probably flip upside down because he likes belly rubs." Now the hound will awoo away if he hears the car in the driveway because he seems to know it's his friend who rubbed his belly. (Rural route carrier, they use an old battered station wagon and the dog knows the sound of it.)
Richard Brown 5 years ago
Postal worker left my house on Saturday after I gave her a box of chocolates (Roses) and a thank you card for working during the pandemic. It's the first one she has ever had
Leo Domitrix 5 years ago
Wow. My family must be really weird. We've always had 1. huge mailboxes 2. left cold water/cards/notes 3. kept our pets restrained 4. not blamed them for Customs holding up a package, etc. 5. chatted politely if they like and 6. kept our garbage nowhere near the mail. Like, who wouldn't be nice to the mail-people? Just... be nice. And you learn a LOT abou tthe neighborhood (crime trends, etc.) and about mail regulations (ohkay, if you are ONE millimeter over, yes, DHL will refuse the package!), etc..... AND WHO DOES NOT CLEAN THEIR MAILBOX?!! !OMG!!! WHere I live now, a black widow spider can live in the back. CLean 'em, wipe 'em daily, and remove pests. Nobody wants to risk a spider/snake/wasp!
Tardis42 5 years ago
Some of these seem legitimate, but others just seem like complaining. It's their job to get the mail to me. If it's legal for me to have a mail slot, and I want one in MY house, I'll have one. Also, though I agree, if there's a vicious dog in the yard, a mail carrier shouldn't be expected to enter the yard, if I want my mailbox on my house, not at the street, the mail carrier should walk up and put it in my mailbox, even if it means they'll have to take extra steps. It's part of the job.
bryguy 5 years ago
Some of these really are just people complaining to complain. Like the one saying you should "at a minimum" consult with him before moving or buying a mailbox. Like come on.
Load More Replies... Astrid Nineor 5 years ago
My mum put a box of chocolates on top of the litter bin for the bin men once. They threw it in the bin without looking at it :(
bryguy 5 years ago
Seeing pictures of mailboxes seems so dated, most people in my country have centralized mailboxes with parcel compartments for large packages. I haven't had a mailbox since around 2005. I imagine it makes the lives of the postal workers a lot easier
K.Kobayashi 5 years ago (edited)
Most mailboxes in the US are curbside. In most cases the postal worker can put the mail in there without getting out of the van. Though of course apartment complexes and condos have centralized mailboxes.
Load More Replies... Courtney Christelle 5 years ago
At Christmas time my mom will put a bag of home baked cookies with a note for the mailman. At my office is Stan the Mailman, very nice fellow. I made him and his wife crocheted scarves for Christmas and a tin of various home made treats one year. They work hard, show them some love.
You May Like Woman Celebrating Her PhD Delivers Savage Response To Male Criticism, Internet Joins In 35 People Share What Happened To ‘Most Likely To Succeed,’ And The Endings Are Unexpected 38 'Harmless' Habits That Most Of Us Do But Are Actually Dangerous In The Long Run
Viktorija Ošikaitė
Monika Pašukonytė
Rūta Zumbrickaitė
Related on Bored Panda
