No experience is needed, but those with experience are more likely to land jobs, earn higher pay, and get promoted. A good memory is a definite asset for mail carriers. In addition to remembering many postal regulations and rules, they must be able to rely on memory when arranging the mail for their route for correct delivery. Desirable personal qualities include the ability to work cooperatively with others, the ability to follow instructions, and a degree of flexibility for performing more than one kind of job.
Lifting and loading heavy sacks of mail is often strenuous. Foot carriers in suburban and rural areas may have to carry up to 35 pounds of mail in a shoulder bag. USPS applicants may be asked to demonstrate that they can lift mail sacks weighing up to 70 pounds. Federal Express couriers must be able to lift 75 pounds. Carriers must be able to adhere to all the pertinent postal regulations and be courteous when dealing with the public. Approximately once a year, carriers are evaluated by their supervisors on how well they perform their jobs.
Mail carriers are primarily on their own while delivering mail and are responsible for adhering to postal codes and regulations and meeting specific time schedules. They frequently have the opportunity to meet and talk with the people on their routes. Many have a feeling of accomplishment in filling a responsible job and serving the public. The majority of these workers are members of unions that represent postal employees.