Not only does sorting and looking through all that mail every day seem mind numbingly boring… but I would DEFINITELY not be able to drive around to people’s houses and deliver all of it without having an anxiety attack or getting in an accident. Kudos to the people who do this on a daily basis.
My husband started in 1984 at 3.am unloaded trucks by hand sorted out bags by hand sorted everything by hand for 7.30 carrier work he was a clerk - carrier started routes from the office walking 4-5 plus miles then back to the office then go do collection didn't miss a day his first 10 years the real man of steel.The best to the next generation of USPS workers.
Yeah definitely before us it was harder and longer. My longest days last year was about 12 to 13 hour days over a period of 3 months. My route starts at 8am I'm off no later than 530 pm and I only take overtime if I absolutely have to or being nice lol. But I couldn't imagine waking up to do all that at 3am.
My mail carrier is always whippin it through the streets. I can tell they are always rushing and now I know why. I thought someone fills the truck and someone else delivers it 🤷♀️You cleared that up. I really like this video!
I don't run through my route (we are told not to, for safety reasons), but most carriers do it anyway. The supervisors' attitude is, "Just get your route done on time and I'll look the other way. Don't get caught breaking the safety rules (wink, wink)". I just move at the pace I would normally move if I am off work.
Been a letter carrier for 20 years, 13 of them on the same route. Deliver to about 1300 homes every day, I know all the customers names, whose moved in and who’s moved out. Even recognize people’s cars lol. Average around 3k dps, 4ft of cased mail, and about 300+ parcels and sprs daily.I don’t know how but I remember every package I see when I load up. Don’t case them , street them or mark them. It’s a heavy route but I like that , makes the day go by faster!
This was an excellent example of what rcas actually do. We should let all new rcas watch this video bc this is exactly how I do my route to. Great video
I`m a letter carrier in Canada with 37 years experience. In January 2017, Canada Post hired 50 letter carriers in my city. By April 1st, 42 had quit. That speaks volumes.
Today I went to the post office to mail 20 letters... so I bought 20 stamps...and the clerk just handed them to me. So I said "Am I supposed to stick all these on myself?"...and she said "No. Stick them on the envelopes.."
Thank you Nikki. I love our mailman, Mr. Sapp has been my mailman for over 15 yrs and I too have always wondered about how it's done. This gives you a new perspective of the mail service and how it's really done. Thank you again.
Love your video. I'm Regular Rural Carrier. You could be waiting 2 to 10 or more years to go regular carrier. But, whether you decide to stay and wait to become a regular carrier or just leave dont wait to invest for your future. Use s Roth IRA and just invest some every check and it doesn't need to be alot, just be consistent. That's my two cents.
I'm well over 50 now and my body is pain-free, but I stretch every day for about 15 minutes and do isometric exercises. It also helps to lift with the legs, which the post office tells us to do anything. Some carriers wear weightlifting belts all day which seems like a good idea.
@@jeffw1267 unfortunately it just takes one small incident to change your life. No matter how careful you are. I was pain free and in excellent shape also before my injury. I continued working and it caused severe damage that can’t be undone. There is a class action lawsuit against Usps because they didn’t give accommodations to injured employees. You either worked or quit. I’m on disability retirement through the post office now with full medical benefits. I’m also allowed to work in the private sector making 80% of my previous salary
I just accepted an RCA position and look forward to the opportunity. I appreciate the insight about the position and like the fact your video is current. I pray for the day when I have experience like you do with the routes and processes. Thank you for the video.
I was a city carrier for 28 years, I promise you that route your on is freaking huge. I wish I had known about rural routes first. Be safe and take care. You're like surrounded by cases lol🙏🏾
I am a carrier in NJ and I had no idea anyone cased their DPS! We only do that if there was any brought back the day before(dogs out, construction, road closed, etc). Clusters are so nice, except for pkgs that don't fit inside them. Xp That route sounds super easy, I walk 10-12 miles a day for my route!
I've been an RCA for about 2 1/2 years, and it is interesting seeing how another carrier does it in a completely different area. I case my mail the same way as you (the taco), but my case is much smaller (only 2 1/2 sections), but there is a lot more miles between boxes. I also have to use my own vehicle, since about 9/10 of my route is on gravel roads. I start my day at 7:15, leave the office around 9 (on an average day) and finish sometime around 3:30.
This is SO different from how I do it! Love seeing the differences between carriers. I have Amazon, never less than 2 pumpkins of pkgs and 6 trays pf SPRs Which we say like the word spur
Thanks for the video, this is amazing! I hope the PO works on giving substitutes at least two days off a week because this job can be challenging. I’ve been working for USPS for 11 yrs now 💪🏾 I pray every carrier a safe & peaceful work journey.
Great video. I own a mailbox store and have great admiration for how hard our carrier and all carriers work for the USPS. Keep up the good work as a postal worker and video content producer!
I was a carrier for 23 yrs and always safety 1st. Curve the wheels remove keys from ignition always have your satchel always carry dog spray. I hated those yrs. Thank God om not a carrier anymore all my youth down the drain. I lost so much weight I was always stressed out trying to make it back on time. I'm now indoors and just loving it. Being with the postal service for 30 yrs
(Carrier 9+ years in). An RCA is just like a CCA differences is, RCA means "rural carrier assistant" we're at CCA means "City carrier assistant". When you resigned quit or AWOL and come back you got to start from scratch you lose all your seniority you lose everything, that's why it's recommended that you put in for "temporary leave". Yes but I will agree working a rural route is a heck of a lot easier.
This was really informative and I’m looking forward to my RCA orientation on Monday! Nervous, cause it seems like a ton of info thrown at you at once, but I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it lol
My first day of training is next Wednesday, the truth is, I am terrified, I have no idea how they are going to train me or anything. I finished the academy this past Friday and I want some advice from when you started and you didn't know anything about anything like me. Thank you 😊
When I first started as a cca I did only casing for a few days. Then they had me train on a route with a regular(3 days). Then on the 4th day I did that route by myself. As a rca I didn’t get trained because of my experience. The new rca’s at my station get trained anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks. It depends if they pick it up quickly or not.
Just some advice I’m a regular and when I fist started I never thought I’d become a regular cuz there’s soo much to learn and it becomes overwhelming easily. Keep trying cuz it will get easier. This video is exactly how it looks example case the ffs first (bc there bigger and it will be easier to get the smaller mail in afterwards). Then case ur raw flats. Then case ur raw letters. Now when ur new they don’t like when u case ur dps and I train new hires to not case there dps bc it’s too time consuming. I personally like to cross cross my dps. Each address gets cross crossed so when u go to grab ur letters for that address it’s easier than having to go through each individual letter at the mailbox. Look how each carrier does things in ur office and figure out what works best for u. Overtime this will become second nature but learning soo much becomes overwhelming. Just try to keep that in mind when u want to quit (and u will) everyone feels that way when they first start but it will get easier. And one other tip is when ur on routes u don’t know to speed up some time try organizing ur raw mail by streets. Once u get ur piles of streets together look for the streets u do know and case it up. Eventually ur piles will get smaller and u will feel less overwhelmed than when u have a ton of raw mail u have no idea where it goes lol. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Exactly what @jlopez9382 said about watch the other carriers and how they do things. dont be afraid to ask questions to anyone. During christmas rush, it will be overwhelming but just keep going. box by box. It'll be super easy after a while :)
City carrier for 23 years. 7 more to go. Actually love the job because of the customers, but not the drama from bosses. If the body permits it, I may keep going. I always said I would take a dollar an hour pay cut to be on an evaluated system like the rural carriers are because it's less intrusive and hostile. Not very much friction for management trying to micromanage. I will say during covid that the rural carriers are not getting done as early as they used to but it's still a better overall setup. Last comment I will make is it's nice to see the three-wing case. They took us down to two wings several years ago and we're even talking about combining it down to One Wing. Thankfully even most normal managers realize that would be horribly ineffective especially with the amount of Sprs we currently get.
You get paid by the hour and you don't HAVE to rush. I'm a mail carrier and I don't expect the clerks to rush. If the mail is distributed late then it's management's responsibility to find a way to get the mail up on time. All clerks and carriers have to do is work safely.
I work in nyc and my supervisor are more worry about number then humans that work for them! And they tell you are just a number and there is somebody waiting to replace you! I am a regular now and i paid my dues as a cca! We were force to work through the pandemic no hazardous paid. And i saw my brothers and sisters of covid19 because weren't even being giving the protection equipment to keep us safe at work.
I enjoy all your videos, I think you funny n don't even try to be...you make that look easy and I know it isn't. Have friends who have tried to work at the post office n they couldn't handle the work load...keep up your grind Nikki!🤩
Great vid as usual! I’m also an RCA in Maryland 😀 I’ve been an RCA for a year now but I’m still the newest( & slowest lol) person at my station lm pretty decent on 2 of my primary routes though. I want to work on my speed in the office and on the route. I noticed that you don’t thumb the mail too much before you deliver..I am going to start doing that. Best of luck to you & stay safe!
The best way to get faster is to case faster. That way you don't tear up your body. Also, move around as little as possible while in the station. Extra steps take extra time.
I like it. It kind of reminds me of when I worked at my local library for about 4 yrs when I was in high school! I shelved books, dvds, cds, audio readings, etc. But before I shelved them, I used to have to go in back and organize the carts. If it was books, it had to be by the author, title, fiction or non fiction! DVDs-Title of movie, and genre CDs same thing Audio reading same thing!
Yeah RCA is way better. I'm a city carrier for 16 years of walking!!! It is not easy. I've been on the same route for over 12 years but my route is so chill and laid back so that's why I stayed for so long. But I got the years now to bid on something better so I can stop walking so much. I haven't found out yet if I got my bid. So fingers🤞🏾 ( the folks on my route love me and I love them so I know they will miss me 😔) Yeah they think our job is a game but it's far from it. But there is a lot of "new" carriers that makes the good carriers look bad because they are extremely lazy. 🙄
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I feel you. I got out bidded on the route I tried to get. But I'm going to try again on the next bid cycle. I've been at the post office 16 years it's time to find something better. Stay safe out there. 😉
I'm an RCA too in Connecticut 😊 it's not bad at all. I've done it for over a year too. The only thing I dislike is when the route evaluation is less than what it should be lol the route says 5.67 hours ( you arrive at 7:30 and leave at EIGHT) which is ridiculous but it made me be more efficient while doing a route rather than just trying to be fast.
Omg! 3:30 and done! I wish. We have a route and a cut in from another route everyday. And then sometimes still have to go help someone else. 8-6:30 or later is our days.
I got hired on ad a rural route carrier and about to leave a job I had 28 years as a route driver for a undercar distributor. I drive up to 400 miles a day somedays. Not near many stops though but some of the stuff I handle is heavy. The wages have stagnated the last 10 years so I think this could be a good opportunity for me and hope my route experience helps me.
There are 3 types of letter carrier and they are very different from each other. City carrier rural carrier and contract carrier not the same not the same union not the same rules very different from each other
I feel that the government should pay them a lot more that what they pay. My husband just applied & he might be hired he just had his interview & he told me that they told him that he will work 6 to 7 days a week. Plus if for some reason someone can’t or didn’t finish their route that if u r done with urs & go back to the office u might think u r done for the day but no they’ll ask u to do theirs too. You don’t know what time you’ll be off & on ur days off they might call you to go to work but that is not mandatory.
Wow! It's amazing seeing the difference. I'm a city carrier, your case is alot bigger than mine. Haha you literally case in a 360😂🤦🏻♀️. I only have two sides,but all walking. Thanks for posting this! Why do you take time to case your DPS?
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I noticed in your video 👍🏼 that's pretty cool in my book. We are in the office for about an hour tops before heading to the street! I'm kinda liking the RCA status.
Thanks Nikki Best Post Office video Yet!! Have a question that I get asked all the time. Does putting "Do Not Bend" on a letter envelope do anything for you when delivering mail?
So I deliver for Amazon ! Amazon we just pick up the packages n put em in our trucks , seems so much easier then this job , also wen we finished we get paid for the whole day (10hrs shift) even if we work 3 hours or something ! Do y’all get paid for the rest of the day if finish early ?
We lost all fss down here. We get raw tubs. We have three office where i work at all three during the week. I’ve gotten as much as 9-14 tubs of raw flats. That kills us. I don’t case my dps. Everything to the street. For me it actually goes faster. I’ve beat those who case. I guess it depends on who it is.
You are a super fast worker....kidding......seriously you have done a great job in giving us insight of what the work of being a USPS mail carrier is like ....Thanks and best
So how do you know when you got a package to deliver when you deliver the mail. And wow who knew I'm grateful for my carrier. That's a lot to keep up with.
I number the big boxes from 1 to 6 so when I’m loading I look at all the section one packages. I put them in front with me and memorize what I have. As for the small stuff those are in order so I just look at the first one. Deliver it when I get to it and look at the next one.
I just retired from the PO last year after 38 years,I was a city carrier. First can't believe you cased FFS that was a letter of warning if we did that. We had Chrismas volume packages all year. That drove me out a couple years early. Anyone getting a job as a CCA should expect to work 50 to 60 hours a week, That's just the way that job is anymore good or bad. Even my last year I was forced to work overtime almost daily, New people would quit or get fired at close to 50 percent.Hope the system gets back to like it was but highly doubt it good luck.
I delivered mail for 23 yrs. Those were the worst days of my life. I weighed 90 lbs I looked like a tweaker. I was 26 yrs old but looked like a 62 yr old. It sucked out all my youth. I just don't know I how I managed to go for so many yrs. I've reassigned to another city and now working indoors as a mail processing clerk. So I've been with the usps for 30 yrs. I now gained weight I don't have wrinkles I look healthy and very happy. All my seniority down the drain but I didn't care I'm so so happy now working indoors. Just wonder q he I didn't do this many years earlier
Does the package pickup slip list all the packages and addresses in order? If you have a large package to deliver to the front door of the house, I'm wondering how you remember who it goes to.
I'm a newer subscriber to your channel and I must say that I enjoyed this type of content. Can we expect to see more ride alongs with you working as RCA? My job is as an Amazon delivery guy, so much respect to you and your position. Keep up the great work. P.S. I also enjoy your food dash vids. 👍💪
I only case my flats lol to me if it's already in order I don't need to touch it lol. Which is why I never case my papers. and don't get many flats so when I hit the street I mix my flats in with my dps for the block I'm on
I start a CCA job in just over a week and now I'm scared 😆 Can you share how you learn the route? How do you know where to go? I used to deliver for Amazon and they have their own GPS/app, but I don't think USPS uses any tech for delivery, is that correct?
You just follow the mail, with rural it’s easier because it’s mostly going down connecting streets. Cca is a little different but it gets easier as you do it.
I was an RCA and i fuckin hated that job. Lol. Being in that little cubicle casing everything as a new guy. With no help. It was horrible. Id leave late all the time. Lol. I quit. Being on the road is the funnest part and easiest. When youve had route jobs. Delivery jobs. The road is easy. Casing is the absolute worst. 🤷🏻♂️
Since when did they start caseing DPS and FSS? I retired 10 years ago and they would not let us case that stuff. Straight to the street after caseing the loose stuff.
You made it looked like it's so easy but reality it's not. Depending on the route they put you in. I was a T6 I did 5 different routes on certain people's day off. It was hell for me
Hi Nikki, Thanks so much for these helpful videos! I am currently at the fingerprinting step (RCA). For the evaluated time, do those hours include casing time + route?
Thank you for sharing I currently work with the USPS but as a clerk. I always wondered how long does the casing take cause it seems like the most tedious part of being a mail carrier.
I have always fantasized since a kid about delivering mail. I’m hitting 40 next year. I’m kinda mad at myself that I didn’t try to pursue it in 2020 after I got laid off. Shall I try this kinda position in my 40’s? Is it worth the government pay/benefits?
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV in our office RCA can't case the DPS, they have to take it to the street. All of us carriers take it to the street, only 1 person cases it. We are an all Rural office.
I just received my motor vehicle records email today.. this video has opened my eyes as to what I’m actually applying for! Who knew!? My main question as a potential new hire, how many days/hours per week do you average as RCA? Do you work every day? Does it just depend on your location and staff? I’m trying to decide if switching jobs is going to benefit me or not! Working as a sub sounds like you won’t work very often? Clueless over here.... lol
The hours I get may not be what you get. I’m getting at least 40 hours at the moment. You’re location and the need there could be very different. Also I can work on any route, you just starting out won’t be able to do that. There are new people at my station who are under performing so their hours get cut. I wouldn’t leave a full time job to come here unless you have a hustle you can do on the side.
Hi Nikki, I have recently completed all hiring process and I am waiting for orientation, they told me I basically will cover on Sunday, but they maybe call me for other vacant hours,,,I have job so I don’t know if they gonna give me enough hours or stay at my current job, what if they put me on call and some time I can’t say ok to work as needed?
The RCA position is a hard one to be in. You must be available to work when needed. Also must have something on the side when you don’t get enough hours. I would still take the position and talk to them about it when you get there. But there’s no way to know if they will work with you or not.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I am applying for the RCA position, you have inspired me so thank you so much! With the position of an RCA is it a set schedule of hours every week or do you fill in when they need help? Also how was the interview process? I have read some comments and doesn't seem to be interviews right now just the testing exams, backgrounds, etc? Thank you!
@@CruisingHannah I didn’t have a interview. I applied, did the assessment, a few weeks later, I did my fingerprints, another few weeks later, I have my orientation. It’s a long, but smooth process.
@@E-Z-E If I’m not mistaken, it’s when you accept the Job offer when you get it. I applied twice, the first time, they ran it, but the job offer was canceled. When I applied again, it didn’t need to be ran, since it was just ran a little before.
great vid Nikki Marie, i'll be a CCA here in the Detroit area, i'm getting ready to start my LLV, FFV drivers training in a few days! do you get to drive the same vehicle everyday or do you have to hop in a random LLV every morning when you hit the road.
I got hired "off the street" as a city carrier (not a CCA) and this definitely looks overwhelming. Any advice before I start? How long does it take to get the flow of things during the case/sorting phase?
Keep calm! Can’t say some people pick it up quicker then others. Also depends on the route but after a couple days of looking at the same case it gets easier.
Hi Nikki, I like your videos. I m thinking to apply for the mail carrier position, but I don't know which one I should apply, Rca or Cca. What times you usually start your shift? Do you need to come in early during the xmas time? The reasons I ask are because I have to drop off my kids at school at 7:30. I want to make sure that I could go to work on time before I apply. Since you worked as CCA before, which position you like more, RCA or CCA? and which position is easier? Thank you!
My rca start time is 8:00am. I like the rca position more. The holidays we do come in early to do packages before our route. I started at 8am as a cca too!
I just applied for RRC and am on to the next step of waiting for my background check to go through. Is it all worth it? I'll be changing careers from Nursing Home and Home Health work for the past 23 years to this. I m almost 50 yo and was going to school to become a Nurse and decided that I don't want to do it another 20 years.
I need help when I go to the website and I see the list of jobs none of which are in my area but in my state but I see there hiring all the time i don’t know what to do 😢
delivering Mail in nyc is totally different where so overwhelmed and overworked also we walk pushing carts I so envy you 😔 ..... Keep u the good work cause ur doing ur thang 🙌🏿 u should tell stories about customers experiences cause I bet u have a lot
Honestly I really wanna work for the post office cause I heard the benefits are great and the pension is great also. But however it’s hard to get on cause it’s a small town. Also by chance do you get insurance,benefits as well? Or gotta wait til you’re a mail carrier? Cause I heard it can take years to get hired or promoted to get benefits. But however I don’t know if that’s true or not. But however I appreciate the post office so much. Thank you for all you do 💜💜
I have a newfound respect for all mail carriers. I didn't know how hard it was until I recently got hired
Not only does sorting and looking through all that mail every day seem mind numbingly boring… but I would DEFINITELY not be able to drive around to people’s houses and deliver all of it without having an anxiety attack or getting in an accident. Kudos to the people who do this on a daily basis.
My husband started in 1984 at 3.am unloaded trucks by hand sorted out bags by hand sorted everything by hand for 7.30 carrier work he was a clerk - carrier started routes from the office walking 4-5 plus miles then back to the office then go do collection didn't miss a day his first 10 years the real man of steel.The best to the next generation of USPS workers.
Yeah definitely before us it was harder and longer. My longest days last year was about 12 to 13 hour days over a period of 3 months. My route starts at 8am I'm off no later than 530 pm and I only take overtime if I absolutely have to or being nice lol. But I couldn't imagine waking up to do all that at 3am.
My mail carrier is always whippin it through the streets. I can tell they are always rushing and now I know why. I thought someone fills the truck and someone else delivers it 🤷♀️You cleared that up. I really like this video!
I don't run through my route (we are told not to, for safety reasons), but most carriers do it anyway. The supervisors' attitude is, "Just get your route done on time and I'll look the other way. Don't get caught breaking the safety rules (wink, wink)". I just move at the pace I would normally move if I am off work.
That’s the best when you finish early and still get paid for the full time duration of the route.
Definitely is!
Where did you work in the state were I work he faster you finished the more they gave you
I worked in Maryland. As long as all the rca and regulars came to work you get to leave when you finished.
I work in Millbrae ca it was chaos
The best is when you finish and they let you go home without helping anyone
Been a letter carrier for 20 years, 13 of them on the same route. Deliver to about 1300 homes every day, I know all the customers names, whose moved in and who’s moved out. Even recognize people’s cars lol. Average around 3k dps, 4ft of cased mail, and about 300+ parcels and sprs daily.I don’t know how but I remember every package I see when I load up. Don’t case them , street them or mark them. It’s a heavy route but I like that , makes the day go by faster!
This was an excellent example of what rcas actually do. We should let all new rcas watch this video bc this is exactly how I do my route to. Great video
I`m a letter carrier in Canada with 37 years experience. In January 2017, Canada Post hired 50 letter carriers in my city. By April 1st, 42 had quit. That speaks volumes.
Today I went to the post office to mail 20 letters...
so I bought 20 stamps...and the clerk just handed them to me. So I said "Am I supposed to stick all these on myself?"...and she said "No. Stick them on the envelopes.."
Wow a lot more to it than we know. Thank you awesome 😊
Lol
😅
😂
Thank you Nikki. I love our mailman, Mr. Sapp has been my mailman for over 15 yrs and I too have always wondered about how it's done. This gives you a new perspective of the mail service and how it's really done. Thank you again.
Love your video.
I'm Regular Rural Carrier. You could be waiting 2 to 10 or more years to go regular carrier. But, whether you decide to stay and wait to become a regular carrier or just leave dont wait to invest for your future. Use s Roth IRA and just invest some every check and it doesn't need to be alot, just be consistent.
That's my two cents.
I started as 25 on the rca list I’m about to be 9 after a year and a half
my mom was a mail carrier when she was alive. it is definitely a lot tougher than most people think it is. much respect to you
Congrats 🎊 sister. USPS is way better than Amazon for sure
I was a regular rural carrier for 14years before injuring my back. It’s not an easy job. I trained at least 50 people and 98% could not do it and quit
I'm well over 50 now and my body is pain-free, but I stretch every day for about 15 minutes and do isometric exercises. It also helps to lift with the legs, which the post office tells us to do anything. Some carriers wear weightlifting belts all day which seems like a good idea.
@@jeffw1267 unfortunately it just takes one small incident to change your life. No matter how careful you are. I was pain free and in excellent shape also before my injury. I continued working and it caused severe damage that can’t be undone. There is a class action lawsuit against Usps because they didn’t give accommodations to injured employees. You either worked or quit. I’m on disability retirement through the post office now with full medical benefits. I’m also allowed to work in the private sector making 80% of my previous salary
@@shandrag6329what happened to you? If you done mind me asking. I’m looking into this position now before i make a decision.
Did you have to use your own vehicle?
@derrickpigatt5195 no.
I just accepted an RCA position and look forward to the opportunity. I appreciate the insight about the position and like the fact your video is current. I pray for the day when I have experience like you do with the routes and processes. Thank you for the video.
How did/is it go/going?
I was a city carrier for 28 years, I promise you that route your on is freaking huge. I wish I had known about rural routes first. Be safe and take care. You're like surrounded by cases lol🙏🏾
I am a carrier in NJ and I had no idea anyone cased their DPS! We only do that if there was any brought back the day before(dogs out, construction, road closed, etc).
Clusters are so nice, except for pkgs that don't fit inside them. Xp
That route sounds super easy, I walk 10-12 miles a day for my route!
City carriers don't unless you have a business route and drive a promaster instead of an llv
@@trepapi6539 I drive a promaster, but dont have a business route. So that makes sense! Thanks!
I’d love to see this detailed example on a difficult route! It’s interesting to see how everyone does stuff differently.
Thanks for the idea!
I've been an RCA for about 2 1/2 years, and it is interesting seeing how another carrier does it in a completely different area. I case my mail the same way as you (the taco), but my case is much smaller (only 2 1/2 sections), but there is a lot more miles between boxes. I also have to use my own vehicle, since about 9/10 of my route is on gravel roads. I start my day at 7:15, leave the office around 9 (on an average day) and finish sometime around 3:30.
Don't you just hate it when you're learning a new route and a mailbox does not have a number on it?
Yeasssssss
Or when you get a row of boxes for houses down a lane and a parcel for one of them and none of the houses are numbered.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV do you remember what you scored on the first assessment test and is that initial test very important ?
@@joemazaka5043 90 something
Omg yes it's so annoying
Lol
This is SO different from how I do it! Love seeing the differences between carriers. I have Amazon, never less than 2 pumpkins of pkgs and 6 trays pf SPRs
Which we say like the word spur
Thanks for the video, this is amazing! I hope the PO works on giving substitutes at least two days off a week because this job can be challenging. I’ve been working for USPS for 11 yrs now 💪🏾 I pray every carrier a safe & peaceful work journey.
Great video. I own a mailbox store and have great admiration for how hard our carrier and all carriers work for the USPS. Keep up the good work as a postal worker and video content producer!
Most informative USPS video on UA-cam. Thank you
I was a carrier for 23 yrs and always safety 1st. Curve the wheels remove keys from ignition always have your satchel always carry dog spray. I hated those yrs. Thank God om not a carrier anymore all my youth down the drain. I lost so much weight I was always stressed out trying to make it back on time. I'm now indoors and just loving it. Being with the postal service for 30 yrs
The sorting case is in delivery sequence meaning that depending on your route, houses next door may be at opposite ends of the sorting case.
This is a very respectful job. I don't think i would have the ability to sort that amount of mail in a resonable time even with training and practice.
(Carrier 9+ years in). An RCA is just like a CCA differences is, RCA means "rural carrier assistant" we're at CCA means "City carrier assistant". When you resigned quit or AWOL and come back you got to start from scratch you lose all your seniority you lose everything, that's why it's recommended that you put in for "temporary leave". Yes but I will agree working a rural route is a heck of a lot easier.
and the rural starts out about $1 more per hour
People always assume we have it easy. There's a lot Involved! It's also just as physical as some trade jobs.
It definitely is, I get well over 10000 steps on all of our rural routes.
People assume any job is easy.
This was really informative and I’m looking forward to my RCA orientation on Monday! Nervous, cause it seems like a ton of info thrown at you at once,
but I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it lol
You be fine!
First couple of weeks were rough, my regular helped me through
This was really helpful! I’ve got my driving stuff tomorrow for rca! Looking forward to it. You had some great tips in there!
Definitely agree with everything you said in this video I’m a carrier as well
My first day of training is next Wednesday, the truth is, I am terrified, I have no idea how they are going to train me or anything. I finished the academy this past Friday and I want some advice from when you started and you didn't know anything about anything like me. Thank you 😊
When I first started as a cca I did only casing for a few days. Then they had me train on a route with a regular(3 days). Then on the 4th day I did that route by myself.
As a rca I didn’t get trained because of my experience. The new rca’s at my station get trained anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks. It depends if they pick it up quickly or not.
Just some advice I’m a regular and when I fist started I never thought I’d become a regular cuz there’s soo much to learn and it becomes overwhelming easily. Keep trying cuz it will get easier. This video is exactly how it looks example case the ffs first (bc there bigger and it will be easier to get the smaller mail in afterwards). Then case ur raw flats. Then case ur raw letters. Now when ur new they don’t like when u case ur dps and I train new hires to not case there dps bc it’s too time consuming. I personally like to cross cross my dps. Each address gets cross crossed so when u go to grab ur letters for that address it’s easier than having to go through each individual letter at the mailbox.
Look how each carrier does things in ur office and figure out what works best for u. Overtime this will become second nature but learning soo much becomes overwhelming. Just try to keep that in mind when u want to quit (and u will) everyone feels that way when they first start but it will get easier.
And one other tip is when ur on routes u don’t know to speed up some time try organizing ur raw mail by streets. Once u get ur piles of streets together look for the streets u do know and case it up. Eventually ur piles will get smaller and u will feel less overwhelmed than when u have a ton of raw mail u have no idea where it goes lol. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Exactly what @jlopez9382 said about watch the other carriers and how they do things. dont be afraid to ask questions to anyone. During christmas rush, it will be overwhelming but just keep going. box by box. It'll be super easy after a while :)
its not nearly as scary as you think it to be
@@YaBoyOP_ what do u mean my heart races before I even walk in the door every day lol
City carrier for 23 years. 7 more to go. Actually love the job because of the customers, but not the drama from bosses. If the body permits it, I may keep going.
I always said I would take a dollar an hour pay cut to be on an evaluated system like the rural carriers are because it's less intrusive and hostile. Not very much friction for management trying to micromanage. I will say during covid that the rural carriers are not getting done as early as they used to but it's still a better overall setup.
Last comment I will make is it's nice to see the three-wing case. They took us down to two wings several years ago and we're even talking about combining it down to One Wing. Thankfully even most normal managers realize that would be horribly ineffective especially with the amount of Sprs we currently get.
Former mail carrier, current mail processing clerk n a distribution facility, I feel ya, everything is rush, rush, rush, all the time.
That’s what it’s all about!
You get paid by the hour and you don't HAVE to rush. I'm a mail carrier and I don't expect the clerks to rush. If the mail is distributed late then it's management's responsibility to find a way to get the mail up on time. All clerks and carriers have to do is work safely.
I don't rush either but that's their mindset.
I plan on crossing crafts, after 21 years as a city carrier my body can't handle 15more years of this
@@dhu55ein9 I completely understand, u have 2 do what's best 4 u and ur body.
Good video, I’m a Rural carrier in Louisiana, started as an RCA in 97,
Made regular in 2000
I work in nyc and my supervisor are more worry about number then humans that work for them! And they tell you are just a number and there is somebody waiting to replace you! I am a regular now and i paid my dues as a cca! We were force to work through the pandemic no hazardous paid. And i saw my brothers and sisters of covid19 because weren't even being giving the protection equipment to keep us safe at work.
I enjoy all your videos, I think you funny n don't even try to be...you make that look easy and I know it isn't. Have friends who have tried to work at the post office n they couldn't handle the work load...keep up your grind Nikki!🤩
It definitely can be hard for a lot of people which is understandable. Just gotta stick with it and keep trying. Thanks for watching!
Great vid as usual! I’m also an RCA in Maryland 😀 I’ve been an RCA for a year now but I’m still the newest( & slowest lol) person at my station lm pretty decent on 2 of my primary routes though. I want to work on my speed in the office and on the route. I noticed that you don’t thumb the mail too much before you deliver..I am going to start doing that. Best of luck to you & stay safe!
The tacos and smallest to largest helps to be faster at the box for me. I like to take more time in office instead of the street.
The best way to get faster is to case faster. That way you don't tear up your body. Also, move around as little as possible while in the station. Extra steps take extra time.
I like it. It kind of reminds me of when I worked at my local library for about 4 yrs when I was in high school!
I shelved books, dvds, cds, audio readings, etc.
But before I shelved them, I used to have to go in back and organize the carts.
If it was books, it had to be by the author, title, fiction or non fiction!
DVDs-Title of movie, and genre
CDs same thing
Audio reading same thing!
I'M ALMOST HIRED AS AN RCA....SO, IT'S A NEW WORLD FOR ME.... I'M A BIT NERVOUS!! GREAT VIDEO!! THANK YOU!!
Also. I put my sprs in order but routes i don’t know i load truck. If the red book is in order then it puts all sprs in order
I just got hired so I had to look up these videos lol I’m super nervous but this was very helpful 👍I can’t wait to start
Very interesting! I love the USPS already. Never knew what the carriers actually went through!
Yeah RCA is way better. I'm a city carrier for 16 years of walking!!! It is not easy. I've been on the same route for over 12 years but my route is so chill and laid back so that's why I stayed for so long. But I got the years now to bid on something better so I can stop walking so much. I haven't found out yet if I got my bid. So fingers🤞🏾 ( the folks on my route love me and I love them so I know they will miss me 😔) Yeah they think our job is a game but it's far from it. But there is a lot of "new" carriers that makes the good carriers look bad because they are extremely lazy. 🙄
I was tired of walking after 2 years. Hated being dead tired at the end of the day.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I feel you. I got out bidded on the route I tried to get. But I'm going to try again on the next bid cycle. I've been at the post office 16 years it's time to find something better. Stay safe out there. 😉
Ok I know one carrier who case her DPS to keep from any hiccups too
couple of questions: is it full time job or you get paid as many hours as you work. for starter how much do they pay?
You work as needed, at my station I worked full time because it was needed. They start at $19.
The video was cute Nikki, just like that guy you lit up for!!
Lmao 😂
I was wondering how do you know when you pull up to a mailbox if there is a package that goes with the mail. Thanks great video
Since I know the routes I know the big packages I have by memory. The small ones are in order so I just look at the next one.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV If your brand new how do you remember?
Becoming a regular rural mail carrier in 2 weeks!
How long did it take you to become a regular carrier?
Thank u for sharing i always wwant to work in the postal service and even toke the exam but never got called.
About to start as a RCA, thank you for sharing this
I'm an RCA too in Connecticut 😊 it's not bad at all. I've done it for over a year too. The only thing I dislike is when the route evaluation is less than what it should be lol the route says 5.67 hours ( you arrive at 7:30 and leave at EIGHT) which is ridiculous but it made me be more efficient while doing a route rather than just trying to be fast.
I don't think we have any routes less than 7 hours.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV yeah those 9 hour routes is where the money is lol
Omg! 3:30 and done! I wish. We have a route and a cut in from another route everyday. And then sometimes still have to go help someone else. 8-6:30 or later is our days.
I got hired on ad a rural route carrier and about to leave a job I had 28 years as a route driver for a undercar distributor. I drive up to 400 miles a day somedays. Not near many stops though but some of the stuff I handle is heavy. The wages have stagnated the last 10 years so I think this could be a good opportunity for me and hope my route experience helps me.
There are 3 types of letter carrier and they are very different from each other. City carrier rural carrier and contract carrier not the same not the same union not the same rules very different from each other
Ayyeee angel numbers everywhere ❤ thank you for this video!
I feel that the government should pay them a lot more that what they pay. My husband just applied & he might be hired he just had his interview & he told me that they told him that he will work 6 to 7 days a week. Plus if for some reason someone can’t or didn’t finish their route that if u r done with urs & go back to the office u might think u r done for the day but no they’ll ask u to do theirs too. You don’t know what time you’ll be off & on ur days off they might call you to go to work but that is not mandatory.
Wow! It's amazing seeing the difference. I'm a city carrier, your case is alot bigger than mine. Haha you literally case in a 360😂🤦🏻♀️. I only have two sides,but all walking. Thanks for posting this! Why do you take time to case your DPS?
All rural carriers do, we spend less time on the street then city carriers.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I noticed in your video 👍🏼 that's pretty cool in my book. We are in the office for about an hour tops before heading to the street! I'm kinda liking the RCA status.
I’m surprised you do that first because most carriers I’ve worked with do the packages , flats, letters
Whatever works for you.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV that’s true , alota ppl say rca is more relax and less stressful
Job was too hard lol I tried 3 times 3 diff positions at usps !! I threw the towel in lol it’s not for everybody
People always think it’s easy until they get in.
Thank you for posting this video I have a better idea of rca now. The taco method is a good idea.
Thanks Nikki Best Post Office video Yet!!
Have a question that I get asked all the time.
Does putting "Do Not Bend" on a letter envelope do anything for you when delivering mail?
For standard mail no, if I can bend it I will. For packages I won’t bend them if it says that. Can’t speak for others though.
Mannn I wish my office was that light on parcels we get quadruple that 2 APCs and a hamper is normal lol
So I deliver for Amazon ! Amazon we just pick up the packages n put em in our trucks , seems so much easier then this job , also wen we finished we get paid for the whole day (10hrs shift) even if we work 3 hours or something ! Do y’all get paid for the rest of the day if finish early ?
I’ve been delivering for amazon for a year
too, and it was a decent job. Starting USPS on Monday though. I wish you luck man!
Yes we get paid the evaluated time of the route.
We lost all fss down here. We get raw tubs. We have three office where i work at all three during the week. I’ve gotten as much as 9-14 tubs of raw flats. That kills us. I don’t case my dps. Everything to the street. For me it actually goes faster. I’ve beat those who case. I guess it depends on who it is.
You are a super fast worker....kidding......seriously you have done a great job in giving us insight of what the work of being a USPS mail carrier is like ....Thanks and best
So how do you know when you got a package to deliver when you deliver the mail. And wow who knew I'm grateful for my carrier. That's a lot to keep up with.
I number the big boxes from 1 to 6 so when I’m loading I look at all the section one packages. I put them in front with me and memorize what I have. As for the small stuff those are in order so I just look at the first one. Deliver it when I get to it and look at the next one.
I just retired from the PO last year after 38 years,I was a city carrier. First can't believe you cased FFS that was a letter of warning if we did that. We had Chrismas volume packages all year. That drove me out a couple years early. Anyone getting a job as a CCA should expect to work 50 to 60 hours a week, That's just the way that job is anymore good or bad. Even my last year I was forced to work overtime almost daily, New people would quit or get fired at close to 50 percent.Hope the system gets back to like it was but highly doubt it good luck.
Wish I could've seen this video before I started 14 years ago. Good system
I delivered mail for 23 yrs. Those were the worst days of my life. I weighed 90 lbs I looked like a tweaker. I was 26 yrs old but looked like a 62 yr old. It sucked out all my youth. I just don't know I how I managed to go for so many yrs. I've reassigned to another city and now working indoors as a mail processing clerk. So I've been with the usps for 30 yrs. I now gained weight I don't have wrinkles I look healthy and very happy. All my seniority down the drain but I didn't care I'm so so happy now working indoors. Just wonder q he I didn't do this many years earlier
I enjoyed this... Great Video!!🎉🎊
Does the package pickup slip list all the packages and addresses in order? If you have a large package to deliver to the front door of the house, I'm wondering how you remember who it goes to.
I'm a newer subscriber to your channel and I must say that I enjoyed this type of content. Can we expect to see more ride alongs with you working as RCA?
My job is as an Amazon delivery guy, so much respect to you and your position. Keep up the great work.
P.S. I also enjoy your food dash vids. 👍💪
I will see if I can, just have to see how this one goes over.
I only case my flats lol to me if it's already in order I don't need to touch it lol. Which is why I never case my papers. and don't get many flats so when I hit the street I mix my flats in with my dps for the block I'm on
I start a CCA job in just over a week and now I'm scared 😆 Can you share how you learn the route? How do you know where to go? I used to deliver for Amazon and they have their own GPS/app, but I don't think USPS uses any tech for delivery, is that correct?
You just follow the mail, with rural it’s easier because it’s mostly going down connecting streets. Cca is a little different but it gets easier as you do it.
I was an RCA and i fuckin hated that job. Lol. Being in that little cubicle casing everything as a new guy. With no help. It was horrible. Id leave late all the time. Lol. I quit. Being on the road is the funnest part and easiest. When youve had route jobs. Delivery jobs. The road is easy. Casing is the absolute worst. 🤷🏻♂️
Since when did they start caseing DPS and FSS? I retired 10 years ago and they would not let us case that stuff. Straight to the street after caseing the loose stuff.
I’m a little jealous that your packages fit in one pumpkin.
You made it looked like it's so easy but reality it's not. Depending on the route they put you in. I was a T6 I did 5 different routes on certain people's day off. It was hell for me
I was a t6 on the city side, it was hard!
Hi Nikki, Thanks so much for these helpful videos! I am currently at the fingerprinting step (RCA). For the evaluated time, do those hours include casing time + route?
Yes
Thank you for sharing I currently work with the USPS but as a clerk. I always wondered how long does the casing take cause it seems like the most tedious part of being a mail carrier.
It definitely is!
I have always fantasized since a kid about delivering mail. I’m hitting 40 next year. I’m kinda mad at myself that I didn’t try to pursue it in 2020 after I got laid off. Shall I try this kinda position in my 40’s? Is it worth the government pay/benefits?
It doesn’t hurt to try. You’ll have to see for yourself if it’s worth it or not.
I usually tap the letter upside down in the desk of the case; it’s a lil easier lol
You guys get to case up the DPS? We're told that we're not but I'm guessing that's for city carriers?
Yea city carriers can't case their dps, rural side is different.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV in our office RCA can't case the DPS, they have to take it to the street. All of us carriers take it to the street, only 1 person cases it. We are an all Rural office.
I just received my motor vehicle records email today.. this video has opened my eyes as to what I’m actually applying for! Who knew!? My main question as a potential new hire, how many days/hours per week do you average as RCA? Do you work every day? Does it just depend on your location and staff? I’m trying to decide if switching jobs is going to benefit me or not! Working as a sub sounds like you won’t work very often? Clueless over here.... lol
The hours I get may not be what you get. I’m getting at least 40 hours at the moment. You’re location and the need there could be very different. Also I can work on any route, you just starting out won’t be able to do that.
There are new people at my station who are under performing so their hours get cut.
I wouldn’t leave a full time job to come here unless you have a hustle you can do on the side.
I just converted over in February! Only took 2 years! I have my own route in south city St Louis!
Hi Nikki, I have recently completed all hiring process and I am waiting for orientation, they told me I basically will cover on Sunday, but they maybe call me for other vacant hours,,,I have job so I don’t know if they gonna give me enough hours or stay at my current job, what if they put me on call and some time I can’t say ok to work as needed?
The RCA position is a hard one to be in. You must be available to work when needed. Also must have something on the side when you don’t get enough hours. I would still take the position and talk to them about it when you get there. But there’s no way to know if they will work with you or not.
@@NikkiMarieVlogsNMV I am applying for the RCA position, you have inspired me so thank you so much! With the position of an RCA is it a set schedule of hours every week or do you fill in when they need help?
Also how was the interview process? I have read some comments and doesn't seem to be interviews right now just the testing exams, backgrounds, etc?
Thank you!
@@CruisingHannah I didn’t have a interview. I applied, did the assessment, a few weeks later, I did my fingerprints, another few weeks later, I have my orientation. It’s a long, but smooth process.
@@towernight3 when do you do the background check etc?
@@E-Z-E If I’m not mistaken, it’s when you accept the Job offer when you get it. I applied twice, the first time, they ran it, but the job offer was canceled. When I applied again, it didn’t need to be ran, since it was just ran a little before.
Currently it’s Sunday and I’m on my 2nd Amazon route and than I have to go help the new guy on his 1st Rt lol
Aww I’m sorry you have to go through that. My good drivers have to do the same thing.
Any tips for Amazon Sunday?
We don't have FSS in my office but isn't it supposed to be sequenced for you like DPS is?
Yes, it is in sequence.
great vid Nikki Marie, i'll be a CCA here in the Detroit area, i'm getting ready to start my LLV, FFV drivers training in a few days! do you get to drive the same vehicle everyday or do you have to hop in a random LLV every morning when you hit the road.
You drive the vehicle assigned to the route you're on.
GREAT video. I'm a carrier entering yr 36 in CA.
Whoa
I got hired "off the street" as a city carrier (not a CCA) and this definitely looks overwhelming. Any advice before I start? How long does it take to get the flow of things during the case/sorting phase?
Keep calm! Can’t say some people pick it up quicker then others. Also depends on the route but after a couple days of looking at the same case it gets easier.
Hi Nikki, I like your videos. I m thinking to apply for the mail carrier position, but I don't know which one I should apply, Rca or Cca. What times you usually start your shift? Do you need to come in early during the xmas time? The reasons I ask are because I have to drop off my kids at school at 7:30. I want to make sure that I could go to work on time before I apply. Since you worked as CCA before, which position you like more, RCA or CCA? and which position is easier? Thank you!
My rca start time is 8:00am. I like the rca position more. The holidays we do come in early to do packages before our route. I started at 8am as a cca too!
Thinking into become a RCA. Noticed some of you guys use your personal vehicle, is the mileage and wear/tear reimbursed?. Thanks
Not sure about wear and tear but they do pay for miles.
Woah! My mom works for USPS, my mom just got a new job in Florida as a mail carrier and my senior project was on the USPS:)
I just applied for RRC and am on to the next step of waiting for my background check to go through. Is it all worth it? I'll be changing careers from Nursing Home and Home Health work for the past 23 years to this. I m almost 50 yo and was going to school to become a Nurse and decided that I don't want to do it another 20 years.
I don’t recommend starting over with the post office.
Your videos are very helpful especially when trying to get into to RCA position. Thank you!
Happy to hear that!
I need help when I go to the website and I see the list of jobs none of which are in my area but in my state but I see there hiring all the time i don’t know what to do 😢
delivering Mail in nyc is totally different where so overwhelmed and overworked also we walk pushing carts I so envy you 😔 ..... Keep u the good work cause ur doing ur thang 🙌🏿 u should tell stories about customers experiences cause I bet u have a lot
Honestly I really wanna work for the post office cause I heard the benefits are great and the pension is great also. But however it’s hard to get on cause it’s a small town. Also by chance do you get insurance,benefits as well? Or gotta wait til you’re a mail carrier? Cause I heard it can take years to get hired or promoted to get benefits. But however I don’t know if that’s true or not. But however I appreciate the post office so much. Thank you for all you do 💜💜
We do get health insurance.