What Happens When You Write 'Return to Sender' on Mail?

When you write 'Return to Sender' on a piece of mail, it triggers a specific set of actions by both the mail carrier and the postal processing centers. This process ensures that the mail is returned to the original sender and can help prevent future similar issues. Here is a detailed look at what happens.

Mail Carrier Action

The mail carrier plays a crucial role in this process. If you or a mail carrier writes 'Return to Sender' on a piece of mail, the carrier will not deliver the mail. Instead, they will hand it over to the processing center for further action.

Processing

Once the mail reaches the processing center, it goes through a detailed process. This can include:

Returning the Mail: If the recipient is not found at the given address due to reasons such as moving or an incorrect address, the mail will be marked for return to the original sender. Note for Return: The original sender will receive the mail back, often with a detailed reason for the return, such as 'Not at this address' or 'Moved left, no forwarding address.'

Potential Fees

Depending on the postal service's policies and the nature of the mail item (e.g., a package versus regular letter), there may be fees involved in the return process. These fees can include:

Delivery Charges: For packages, there might be delivery charges. Refund Fees: If the returning item is a package and the sender refunded the recipient, there might be a fee for the return.

Timeframe

The return process can take several days to weeks, depending on the postal service and the distance involved. This timeframe is crucial to consider when you write 'Return to Sender' on your mail.

Handling Specific Situations

Failing to provide a clear reason for the return can lead to processing issues. Here are some key points to remember:

RTS - NOT at This Address

If the recipient is not found at the given address, the package or letter may be marked as 'RTS - NOT at this address.' This clearly indicates that the mail was undeliverable to the current address.

RTS - Moved Left, No Forwarding Address

When the recipient has moved and left their forwarding address, the package or letter may be marked as 'RTS - Moved left, no forwarding address.' This also indicates that the mail was unable to be delivered to the new address.

RTS - Refused

In cases where the recipient refused the delivery, the package or letter may be marked as 'RTS - Refused.' This reason clearly states that the recipient actively refused the delivery.

Mail Types and Compliance

Not all types of mail can include a 'Return to Sender' label. Here are some important notes:

Proper Mail Types

Proper first class, presorted first class, priority, and properly endorsed mailers: These types of mail can include the 'Return to Sender' label. The label must be correct and on the proper type of mail for this to work.

Worthless Mail

Incorrectly labeled or placed 'Return to Sender' on non-first class mailers (e.g., marketing or junk, presorted STD, EDDM, ECRWSS, ECRWSH) can result in:

Wasted Time: The mailer is simply thrown away, wasting everyone's time and effort. Contact the Sender: Instead of marking it with 'Return to Sender,' contact the sender and ask to be removed from the sender's mailing list. This will prevent unwanted mail from being sent to you.

Additional Considerations

Here are a few additional points to consider:

For Past Residents

If you are receiving mail for past residents who no longer live at the given address, you may want to take action to stop this type of mail:

Refer to my previous posts on how to stop this type of mail. These posts will provide specific steps and solutions to address this issue.

For Deceased Individuals

If you are receiving mail for deceased individuals, also refer to my other posts on this topic. These posts will provide guidance and solutions to stop receiving mail for deceased individuals.

Understanding 'Return to Sender' and its impact on mail service can help you manage your mail more effectively and avoid potential issues. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your mail is handled correctly and efficiently.