Certified Mail vs. Registered Mail: What’s the Difference?

Do you check your mailbox every day? If so, you’re part of 98% of people.

While it may seem outdated, as technology improves to send snail mail, it’s still a crucial part of our society. There are some things that can’t be sent via text or email.

When you need to send someone through the mail system, you have a few different options. People tend to confuse certified mail with registered mail. Even if you know the difference, it can be difficult to know which is best for your documents.

This article is going to tell you everything you need to know about the mail service. Continue reading so you don’t have to wonder the next time you need to send out important mail.

What is Certified Mail

Have you ever had your mail stolen or lost in transit? Well, you aren’t alone. Millions of people every year never receive their mail because of theft.

In order to reduce the risk of this happening, people use certified mail. It’s an added USPS service that gives the sender a receipt for proof of mailing and delivery. There are different categories of certified mail as well.

If you’re sending sensitive or confidential mail, you can opt for Certified Mail Restricted Delivery. With this service, the only person you can receive the package is the addressee.

Certified Mail Adult Signature Required allows anyone over the age of 21 to sign for the package. Besides tracking mail, many people use this service for record-keeping.

Cost

Understanding USPS certified mail, and the cost is important. Sending certified mail is slightly more expensive.

On top of the cost of postage, you’ll have to pay $3.75 per shipment. You can also pay an extra $2.85 if you want to include a return receipt.

How to Send Certified Mail

When mailing important documents, you’ll need to stop at your local post office and pick up Form 3800. You’ll fill out the required information and remove the backing.

You’ll put the stick on your piece of mail. It’s important that you keep your receipt after you purchase the postage and choose the carrier.

What is Registered Mail

The main difference between registered mail and certified mail is the security level. When you send registered mail, you’ll receive more detailed tracking information and updates.

Instead of only having the receipt and knowing when the package arrives, with registered mail you’ll get updates at every point. Registered mail is also sent separately. Certified mail will be included with non-certified mail.