In the business arena, sending mail is inevitable. Since business relationships can span oceans and countries, it’s not surprising that companies are still sending mail. That said, it’s essential to identify an effective mail-sending method that fits your business requirements.
As far as sending mail is concerned, there are two major methods: registered and certified mail. Each method is effective but differs in terms of security and additional services.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a better way to send your business mail and are torn between these two methods, this post will discuss their differences to help you decide.
What Is Certified Mail?
Certified mail existed before registered mail. It began in 1955, allowing Americans to send their mail and get a receipt for the transaction. You can use certified mail services for sending packages or documents. Nowadays, you can also send certified mail online.
With certified mail, you get a return receipt copy once the parcel is dispatched. This means the sender must sign on the recipient’s behalf after sending the parcel. Significantly, this process ensures that your recipient receives the package within five working days.
On the other hand, the sender will receive confirmation after the recipient receives the parcel, notifying them of the successful delivery. However, it’s important to note that if one doesn’t purchase the return receipt, the proof stays with the postal company. If the mail isn’t delivered, follow-up efforts are made to ensure the success of its delivery.
Meanwhile, for the transparency of the process, the sender gets notifications of every attempt to deliver the mail, so they know its delivery status. It’s also possible for the sender to track the delivery of their package by using the tracking code included on the receipt.
What Is Registered Mail?
Registered mail is a service similar to certified mail with extra security measures for safe and secure delivery. Businesses can send registered mail in locked cages, safes, or sealed containers with a tracking record that can be checked. Additionally, electronic or physical signatures and a tracking code are used to check the mail’s movement.
Meanwhile, you can purchase registered mail and get a receipt once you send the item. Then, the recipient’s signature is required after receiving the mail. Once the mail is successfully delivered, one can get a return service or receipt at a fee.
In comparison to certified mail, registered mail provides extra security and care for the mail. As already stated, registered mail uses sealed containers, locked cages, and safes for maximum mail protection. These locked cages are accompanied by a tracking record and insurance to protect the item.
Furthermore, regarding accountability and delivery, registered mail is processed in greater detail than certified mail. Its receipt numbers are made up of 13 alphanumeric characters. In addition, it may take up to 15 days for an item under registered mail to reach its recipient.
Difference Between Registered And Certified Mail
The difference between registered and certified mail can be easily identified through the following facts:
- Registered mail provides extra security for the mail or package that ensures safe delivery. On the other hand, certified mail provides the sender with mailing proof and a delivery receipt maintained by the postal department for up to two years.
- Registered mail was developed to provide businesses with a safe mailing option whereby they’re compensated if the item was lost or damaged. With certified mail, companies can send mail with great accountability at a friendly price.
- Certified mail is essential where proof of mail is necessary, and registered mail is vital where security is paramount.
- Both mailing methods have tracking features where a 20-digit numeric code is provided for certified mail, and a 13-digit alphanumeric code is provided for registered mail.
- When using registered mail, your business gets a return receipt after delivery, compensation if the mail is damaged or lost, and restricted delivery as additional services. On the other hand, your business only gets a return receipt as an additional service for certified mail.
Conclusion
Every business has its needs and priorities when it comes to mailing. Some require proof that they’ve sent the mail, while others need security for the mail sent. Regardless of your business requirements, you’re sure to settle for either registered or certified mail. However, it all depends on what type of mail you’ll be sending and the speed of delivery.
Fortunately, this article has discussed the definition of each mailing method and their difference to help you choose the best mailing option for your business.